Decision on new South Africa coach edges closer

THE task of finding a new South Africa rugby coach shifted up a gear yesterday when the first two candidates for the vacant position were interviewed by the country’s rugby bosses.

The favourite for the position, former Bulls boss Heyneke Meyer, and South African Under-21 coach Peter de Villiers were subjected to lengthy interviews. The other two candidates — Allister Coetzee and Chester Williams — will be interviewed today.

Meyer appears to be the first choice candidate to get the job after his successful six-year term with the Bulls, which saw them lift the southern hemisphere inter-provincial Super 14 crown last season.