Springboks number Duane Vermeulen

SA Rugby Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus is reportedly considering appointing Duane Vermeulen as the Springboks’ next defence coach. Photo by Mark Lewis/Huw Evans/Shutterstock/BackpagePix

BIG SUNDAY READ: Duane Vermeulen to coach Springboks?

SA Rugby Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus is reportedly considering appointing Duane Vermeulen as the Springboks’ next defence coach.

Springboks number Duane Vermeulen

SA Rugby Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus is reportedly considering appointing Duane Vermeulen as the Springboks’ next defence coach. Photo by Mark Lewis/Huw Evans/Shutterstock/BackpagePix

SA Rugby Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus is reportedly considering appointing Duane Vermeulen as the Springboks’ next defence coach.

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The 36-year-old No 8 is expected to hang up his boots after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

However, Vermeulen may be in line for a player-coach role at the tournament, which would then evolve into a permanent role as defence coach.

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Duane Vermeulen could return to the Bulls – or Stormers

Meanwhile, Sunday’s Rapport newspaper also suggested that Vermeulen’s agent is in talks with both the Bulls and Stormers over the possibility of a club contract on his return to South Africa to prepare for the 2023 World Cup.

Vermeulen has represented both South African sides during his career.

A source close to the Stormers was quoted as saying “broad discussions with Duane’s agent are ongoing” and “Duane still has a lot to offer”.

Vermeulen’s Ulster side were eliminated from the United Rugby Championship (URC) last weekend.

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