FORMER Springbok prop Robbie Kempson says it’s time for national coach Allister Coetzee to “move on”.
Coetzee is fighting to keep his job after two tumultuous seasons in charge of the national team.
During his tenure the Boks won only 11 out of 25 Tests for a meagre 44% win record.
Kempson, who played 37 Tests for the Springboks between 1998 and 2003, told Reuters that it was time for SA Rugby to consider hiring a coach from overseas.
“There is not a shadow of doubt they (SA Rugby) should be looking at other options. It’s unfortunate for Allister, but it’s time for him to move on,” Kempson said.
“I think they should go for someone from outside, (New Zealanders) Robbie Deans and John Mitchell are two that come to mind.
“Why wouldn’t they go for people who have proven expertise of putting teams into positions where they can win Test matches?
“But I don’t think it will happen in my lifetime. The South African way of thinking is that they wouldn’t look outside their square box.”
Several reports have indicated that SA Rugby is eager to replace Coetzee, but the coach is seemingly unwilling to step down.
A newspaper report last weekend indicated that Coetzee sought legal advice regarding the merits of his dismissal.
Rapport reported that SA Rugby has a verbal agreement with Coetzee over a 65% win mandate, but the coach and his lawyers are confident it cannot be used as a reason for dismissal.
The review process of Coetzee’s performance, which was supposed to take place last Wednesday, never took place, the Afrikaans newspaper further reported.
It has been delayed until 16 January next year.
SA Rugby has said it will only comment on the matter in the new year, according to a press statement released last Friday. – SPORT24
