Español
Springbok Women determined to topple mighty Canada
Springbok Women captain Nolusindiso Booi said her team will enter Loftus Versfeld with excitement and determination when they face Canada at 13:30 on Saturday.
White, who took over the reins at Loftus Versfeld in 2020, helped revive the Bulls' flagging fortunes during his time in charge. His achievements included titles in Super Rugby Unlocked and the Currie Cup in his debut season, and guiding the team to three United Rugby Championship (URC) final appearances - though the title eluded him.
But White's exit comes amid reports of internal unrest at the Bulls, as a growing rift between the head coach and senior players, as well as assistant coaches Andries Bekker and Chris Rossouw, led to mounting pressure on his leadership.
In a statement released on Friday, White himself cited the need for change as the main reason for his departure.
"I have made the decision to move on," he said. "With many years' coaching experience, I felt it would be difficult to get the squad to perform to the next level. Therefore, in the best interest of both myself and the Bulls, I feel it's time for a new chapter. It's time for this group to have a new voice.
"To be part of Bulls rugby history has been an absolute honour. I wish Bulls rugby all the best."
Bulls CEO Edgar Rathbone, meanwhile, praised White's contributions to the team.
"Jake has tremendous rugby IP, and that has been visible in the way he was able to transfer it into our structures and as a club we remain grateful for those contributions made during his tenure," Rathbone said.
"He has given us a great platform to build upon with a talented crop of young players who are just finding their true offering. He also helped the bigger playing group develop, with 10 emerging to play for the Springboks."
The mutual termination now opens the door for a new era at the Pretoria franchise. Speculation is swirling around who might replace the former Springbok World Cup-winning coach, with Johan Ackermann, Johann van Graan and Franco Smith some of the names being touted.
The Bulls are expected to announce White's official successor in the coming weeks.
Issued on SABC Sport | https://www.sabcsport.com/rugby/news/jake-white-steps-down-as-bulls-coach-following-reports-of-player-unrest
