It was announced last week that for the 2025 SA Cup season, Cheetahs Director of Rugby Frans Steyn will serve as the head coach, while former Springbok teammate Ruan Pienaar will be the backline coach.
It’s all part of a coaching restructure as the Cheetahs look to rebuild the franchise into a formidable force once again, despite having fallen down the pecking order in SA Rugby to an extent.
Steyn is apparently also turning to the Springboks for help, and is looking to rope in Vermeulen to lend his expertise and experience.
“I know Frans is in contact with Springbok assistant coaches like [scrum coach] Daan Human and [former Bok No 8] Duane Vermeulen to occasionally lend a hand with the coaching,” said Cheetahs CEO Rory Duncan in an interview with Rapport. “It would obviously be great.”
Meanwhile, Izak van der Westhuizen has returned to his former role as forwards coach.
“All three coaches bring a wealth of experience in professional rugby, and the Cheetahs are fortunate to have them in our camp,” added Duncan.
THE CHEETAHS WILL HAVE PLENTY OF SPRINGBOK EXPERIENCE IN THEIR COACHING RANKS
Steyn and Pienaar have 155 combined Springbok caps, and three World Cup victories between them.
“This is Frans and Ruan’s debut as coaches,” Duncan commented. “They were both exceptional and versatile players, and their range of experience can only benefit the team. I strongly believe in allowing people to grow, and as a company, we will support them in their campaign.”
The Cheetahs’ campaign kicks off on Saturday, 8 March, against the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers, followed by the first home game on Friday, 14 March, against the Leopards in Toyota Stadium.
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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/another-former-springbok-to-take-on-key-coaching-role/
