Johan Ackermann will reportedly remain employed by SA Rugby and help coach the Junior Springboks for at least two more months.
According to Rapport, the former Lions coach, whose six-month contract as a consultant was set to expire on 30 June, has been extended to cover the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy (29 June 29-19 July).
It is understood that Saru general manager Dave Wessels’ intervention ensured Ackermann will remain with the squad throughout their campaign.
MORE: Siya looks up to Boks of the future
Rapport understands that any negotiations with other teams would need to accommodate Ackermann’s extended commitment to the Junior Boks.
The 54-year-old joined Saru in January after concluding his technical advisor role with Japan’s Urayasu D-Rocks.
The Junior Boks kicked off their U20 Rugby Championship last week with a 36-25 victory over Argentina at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with Australia next up on Tuesday.
Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images