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Coetzee denies reports he's in Japan talks

Cape Town - Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has denied that he is in talks with Japanese club Canon Eagles regarding a head coaching position.

READ: 5 talking points - Italy v Springboks

Afrikaans newspaper Rapport reported on Sunday that Coetzee could become the new head coach of the Canon Eagles if - as is widely expected - he loses his job as Bok coach.

Coetzee previously coached the Kobe Steel Kobelco Steelers in Japan before accepting the Bok job in 2016.

Coetzee addressed reporters in Cardiff on Monday as the Springboks prepare themselves for this weekend’s final Test of the year against Wales on Saturday (kick-off is at 16:30 SA time).

When probed on the matter, Coetzee said, as quoted by Netwerk24: “I don’t know where these rumours come from. I’d like to know who the source is. It’s a pity.”

Rapport earlier reported that Coetzee would not survive when his contract is reviewed in December.

The performance clause in Coetzee’s contract states that he needs to maintain a 65% win-ratio and failure to do so would allow SA Rugby to relieve him of his duties without a so-called “golden handshake”.

Under Coetzee’s tutelage, the Boks have won 11 of 24 Tests - a 46% win-ratio - and a victory in Cardiff on Saturday will push that percentage up to only 48%, while a defeat or draw would see it drop to 44%.

SA Rugby will hold their next General Council Meeting on Wednesday, December 13 after which as announcement on Coetzee's future is expected to be made.

It is believed that the record 38-3 defeat to Ireland earlier this month was the final blow to his hopes of staying in charge of the national team.

During Coetzee's tenure, the Boks made history for the wrong reasons.

These "records" include:

- First ever defeat to Ireland in South Africa

- First ever away defeat to Argentina

- First ever defeat to Italy

- Worst ever year in Springbok history - 4 wins from 12 Tests

- Most points ever conceded against New Zealand (57) in both 2016 and 2017

- Biggest margin of defeat ever against New Zealand (57-0)

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