Allister Coetzee given the boot as Bok coach
Springboks coach Allister Coetzee has parted ways with SA Rugby.
This brings an end to a largely unsuccessful two-year stint as Bok coach.
JUST IN: SA Rugby has confirmed that they have parted ways with coach Allister Coetzee with immediate effect.
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) February 2, 2018
After only 11 victories in 25 Tests during two years guiding the Springboks, the news comes as no surprise.
When Coetzee belatedly succeeded Heyneke Meyer in 2016, he did not have time for pre-season camps and had no say in the selection of support staff.
South Africa lost a calendar-year record eight Tests, including at home to Ireland, away to Argentina and to Italy for the first time.
The Springboks were also humiliated 57-15 by greatest rivals the New Zealand All Blacks in Durban, a record home loss.
SA Rugby CEO, Jurie Roux, says the decision was taken in "the best interest of the Springboks".
"We'd like to thank Allister for his passion and dedication to the Springbok cause and wish him every success in his next role," says Roux.
The Rugby Department will manage the responsibilities of the Springbok coach until a new coach is confirmed later this month.
Coetzee says he will continue to be a Springbok supporter.
"I have always held Springbok rugby dear to my heart and will continue to do so and for that reason I think now is the time the team and me strike out in new directions. I wish Springbok rugby every success in the future - as I have always done."