Share

De Villiers: Munster a 'big challenge' for Van Graan

Cape Town - Former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers believes that Johann van Graan will have his hands full at new club Munster.

Van Graan will be vacating his role as Springbok assistant coach after next weekend's Test against France in Paris before heading off to Munster to take over as head coach. 

De Villiers, who played for Munster for a single season in 2009/10, expressed the importance of Van Graan getting to know the team culture at his new club. 

It will be the first time that Van Graan operates as a head coach.

"I think it's a big challenge for him," De Villiers was quoted as saying on the Irish Independent website.

"It will be his first head coaching job but he has built up a lot of experience from working with the Bulls and the Springboks now for six years.

"I think what you learn at that level really stands you in good stead for a head coaching job. In the last four years when I was with the 'Boks, he did the majority of the on-field coaching."

De Villiers added that Munster should consider bringing in a more experienced coach to partner Van Graan, who will be replacing new SA Rugby Director of Rugby, Rassie Erasmus at the club. 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1174 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1365 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2076 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE