Jake White is back in Super Rugby with immediate effect

South Africa might have gone into a three-week lockdown to combat the coronavirus outbreak, but it hasn’t stopped the business of rugby as the Bulls have confirmed Jake White is joining them with immediate effect as their new director of rugby until 2023.

The 2007 World Cup-winning Springboks coach had recently been working in Japan at Toyota Verblitz having previously worked in France at Montpellier. 

White, who worked in Super Rugby as the boss of the Sharks and the Brumbies, takes the position vacated by Alan Zondagh, who stepped down earlier this year.

“We are extremely excited with Jake’s decision to join us,” said Alfonso Meyer, the Bulls CEO. “His credentials speak for itself and we know his contributions are only going to improve our rugby across the board. 

“Jake’s appointment is yet another step in the right direction as we endeavour to take this brand into a new era. We wish him well in his new role.”

Despite the suspension of the 2020 Super Rugby season, White is eager to get the ball rolling in Pretoria. 

“The Bulls brand has always been a powerhouse in rugby and respected around the world. There is a great history and heritage here, and I’m looking forward to adding my contribution to the Bulls’ legacy. 

“The shareholders, Remgro, Patrice Motsepe and the BBRU, together with the staff, have an amazing ambition to not only take the Bulls back to number one but also re-invent and re-mould the face of rugby in this country.

“We need to re-build a winning culture at Loftus, and that will no doubt bring the fans back to their beloved Loftus Versfeld. This won’t be easy, but we are up for it.

“It’s no secret that our franchise rugby needs to be strong for the Boks to be strong. I’m looking forward to doing whatever it takes help keep them at number one.”

WATCH: Ben Foden chats to Jim Hamilton in the latest episode of The Lockdown, the new RugbyPass series