Heyneke Meyer ends Springboks reign

Heyneke Meyer believes “the time has come for change” after bringing an end to his reign as South Africa head coach.

The South African Rugby Union said that Meyer had advised Saru president Oregan Hoskins and chief executive Jurie Roux of his desire to step down. Meyer’s contract was due to expire at the end of the year.

Meyer, who took charge of the Springboks four years ago, led South Africa to third place in the recent England-hosted Rugby World Cup, which represented a reasonable recovery after his team suffered a shock 34-32 defeat against opening pool stage opponents Japan. There are no indications about what 48-year-old Meyer might do next, although it will not go unnoticed that new England boss Eddie Jones has yet to announce the make-up of his coaching support staff.