'My name doesn't crop up': White dismisses links to Springbok job after Nienaber's shock exit

Bulls director of rugby Jake White, the name that often pops up when international jobs open, hinted that his was not in consideration for the Springbok head coach role that Jacques Nienaber will soon vacate.

SA Rugby confirmed last weekend that the Springbok head coach, Nienaber, was headed to Irish giants Leinster following the Rugby World Cup in France, which concludes on 28 October.

READ |  SA Rugby in no rush to appoint Nienaber's replacement but succession plan in place

But White, who was linked with the England role after the English Rugby Football Union (RFU) fired Eddie Jones last year, said he did not picture his name on SA Rugby's list of candidates.

Nienaber's assistants, Mzwandile Stick and Deon Davids, are said to be hot favourites, while former Lions mentor Johan Ackermann has received backing in some quarters.

"My name doesn't crop up. I've been reading enough articles to see that my name is not on the list and that's maybe a good thing," said White.

"Sometimes it's spooky when your name is on that list because you generally don't get it.

"I'm signed here (at the Bulls) until 2027. I coach a lot of players who I think should be international players and who will become internationals.

"I work for an incredible organisation. I have a great relationship with my board, with Patrice Motsepe and Johann Rupert.

"I wouldn't do anything without ever speaking to them about it. If they felt it was in the best interests of South African rugby that I would be involved in the national setup, I would only do it with their blessing.

"As you've seen, unless you get in there and they want you, there is no use being forced in. Secondly, you've got to get what you think is important for you to run the organisation when it