Jacques Nienaber has not ruled out a return to the Springbok management team ahead of the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Nienaber insists he is fully committed to Leinster for now, but admits the Boks still hold a powerful pull on him.
The former Bok coach, now senior coach at the Irish giants, spoke to SuperSport ahead of Saturday’s Test at the Aviva Stadium and again refused to close the door on a reunion with Rassie Erasmus.
Nienaber recently extended his Leinster deal through to the end of the 2026-27 season.
“So I’ll be out of contract at the start of the international season in the southern hemisphere,” he said. “You never know how things will work out.”
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Nienaber explained that his move back to Ireland was motivated by family rather than a desire to step away from Test rugby.
“When Rassie and I came over in 2016, we planned to get a passport, the kids were going to settle here – that was the idea,” he said. “We thought maybe if we were relevant enough, we’d return for the 2023 or 2027 World Cup. But then life happens.
“[Munster head coach] Anthony Foley passed away, and you realise you’ve got all these plans, but all you actually have is the time you have now. So listen, I’m very grateful where I am.”
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But gratitude hasn’t dulled the emotion.
“I miss the Springboks,” Nienaber admitted. “I really miss the group, and one never knows. From my side, I must make sure I stay relevant enough and continue to evolve.
“As a coach, you must still be creative, find different ways and better ways of doing things – and then life will take care of itself.”
Photo: Dave Winter/Inpho/Shutterstock
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