Rudolph Lake - Rapport

Johannesburg - SARU and Springbok coach Peter de Villiers are working flat out to finalise the team's Rugby World Cup plans.

Although SARU and De Villiers are loathe to reveal their plans at this stage, it appears to be a done deal that former Springbok loose forward Rassie Erasmus and former Wallaby coach Eddie Jones will assist the team in defending the Webb Ellis Cup in New Zealand.

Sport24 reported last year already that Erasmus and Jones were on a shortlist to help De Villiers retain the trophy.

SARU's chief executive officer, Jurie Roux, didn't wish to confirm any of the Bok plans on Sunday.

"SARU is on record, however, as saying consultants could possibly be involved in the Bok team," was all that Roux was willing to reveal.

However, according to Sport24's sources, negotiations with Erasmus and Jones have been concluded and an official announcement is expected soon.

The Bulls and the Blue Bulls' fitness and conditioning coach, Basil Carzis, is also on SARU and De Villiers's wishlist. The Bok coach has already spoken to Carzis and his inclusion in the Bok set-up will depend on whether SARU and the Blue Bulls Union can reach an agreement regarding his services.