Johan Ackermann hits back at 'ridiculous' claims about Bok coaches at Bulls camp
Vodacom Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann has moved to address media reports surrounding his request to involve Springbok coaches with the team.
Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk suffers fresh injury blow
The 34-year-old scrumhalf was injured 32 minutes into Yokohama Canon Eagles' opening-round defeat to the Shizuoka Blue Revs on 14 December after attempting a tackle on wing Valynce Te Whare.
Yokohama confirmed earlier this week that the double World Cup winner has temporarily withdrawn from the Japan Rugby League One season, the third consecutive campaign in which injury has disrupted his involvement.
The setback comes at a difficult time for De Klerk's international prospects. After playing a key role in South Africa's back-to-back World Cup titles, his involvement has reduced significantly, with just three Test appearances in 2024 and two in 2025.
He has been overtaken in the scrumhalf pecking order by Cobus Reinach, Grant Williams and Morne van den Berg, with his most recent Springbok appearance coming off the bench against Georgia in July.
De Klerk had been targeting a consistent run of matches in Japan to strengthen his case for national selection, but the injury leaves him sidelined once again.
In a video message to supporters, he said he was disappointed to be leaving but is focused on returning in the best possible condition and hopes to feature later in the season.
Yokohama's regular season runs until 9 May, but De Klerk's absence reduces his opportunities to make a timely impact as South Africa continue to plan with younger options at scrumhalf.
South Africans overseas: Thomas du Toit shines with a brace of tries for Bath
Springbok prop Thomas du Toit put in a standout performance for Bath against Northampton Saints in the Gallagher Premiership over the weekend, scoring two tries and dominating the scrum battle.
Bulls to receive Springbok coaching support under SA Rugby collaboration
The Bulls are set to benefit from some invaluable Springbok coaching experience in the coming weeks.
Springbok legend Bryan Habana sings Rassie Erasmus' praises
Former Springbok winger Bryan Habana says the current South Africa team is the best the country has ever produced and says it is all down to the work of head coach Rassie Erasmus.