The Bulls have taken steps to revitalize their coaching staff by hiring former Springbok lock Andries Bekker as their new forwards coach. Bekker has been coaching in Japan since his retirement in 2018, and he has reportedly agreed to join the Pretoria-based franchise.
Meanwhile, Duane Vermeulen has declined the Bulls’ offer to return as a defense and forwards coach. The decision is said to be based on his desire to remain in the Western Cape, where his two sons attend school. He may be in talks with the Stormers instead, where he could potentially join their coaching staff.
Andries Bekker’s appointment as the new forwards coach marks an exciting development for the Bulls. The team has been through a tumultuous season, prompting several changes to both their coaching staff and playing squad. As they prepare for next season’s United Rugby Championship (URC), Bekker’s expertise could prove invaluable.
Bekker has been honing his coaching skills by working with a school team in Mossel Bay. He will join the Bulls’ newly revamped coaching staff, which is determined to excel in the upcoming rugby season.
Duane Vermeulen’s future as a coach remains uncertain. Although he declined the Bulls’ offer, he is expected to transition from player to coach within the next season or two. Reports suggest that he is being groomed for a top coaching position, specifically as a defense coach, by Rassie Erasmus, the Director of Rugby. Vermeulen is currently seeking a new franchise after Ulster chose not to extend his contract.
Erasmus may potentially add Vermeulen to his team as he prepares for life after Jacques Nienaber. Although the Bulls were unable to secure Vermeulen, his potential inclusion in the Stormers’ coaching staff could still have a significant impact on South African rugby.
The Bulls’ coaching changes will be put to the test as the Rugby World Cup 2023 fixtures have been announced. The Springboks will be facing Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina in the Rugby Championship, followed by warm-up fixtures against Argentina, Wales, and New Zealand. In the Rugby World Cup, the Springboks will compete against Scotland, Romania, Ireland, and Tonga. The quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final will take place throughout October.
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