Jack White. (Photo: GB Jordaan.)
If only the Blue Bulls could get rid of their defeat problems with the wave of a magic wand, the rugby union would probably have done it a long time ago.
It is not only in the European competitions where the Pretorianians suddenly struggle, but the Currie Cup team also gets the wind from the front – as its defeats against the Pumas, Western Province, Cheetahs and Griffons testify.
Now the Blue Bulls Company (BBM) have announced that Jake White will take the Currie Cup coaching reins, while Edgar Marutlulle will once again be involved with the junior teams.
“I met with Edgar and he felt that something had to be done and that the union’s interests came first. It’s a point of view we both share and something he deserves a pat on the back for,” said White.
According to the World Cup-winning coach, it is important to realize that things do not always go according to plan and that proactive action must be taken.
“I will work hard with the coaching group (Gert Smal, Hugo van As and Sean Everitt) and find a way to get our campaign back on track.”
For his part, Marutlulle agreed that the coaching move is in the best interest of the union.
“I am grateful for the opportunity I have been given to be at the helm of the Currie Cup team. As a coach and former player, I will always have the best interests of this great franchise at heart,” he said.
Meanwhile, Willem Strauss (union president) threw his weight behind White to turn things around on the rugby field.
“It is important to stand behind our team and coach now – we might just cause a few surprises. I am convinced that most of us have experienced setbacks in life; it’s how you fight back that’s most important.”
The Bulls play against Griekwas at Loftus Versfeld on Friday at 17:00.
- Blue Bulls’ Currie Cup results:
Pumas 63 – 15 Blue Bulls
Western Province 41 – 33 Blue Bulls
Cheetahs 32 – 7 Blue Bulls
Griffons 32 – 28 Blue Bulls
