Jurie Roux, the chief executive officer of SARU, explained that the contracts of all of the national team’s coaching, medical and logistical staff expired at the end of the year.

“The formal review of the 2011 season and the process of making appointments for 2012 will only be concluded towards the end of the year, as was decided by the Exco in July,” said Roux.

“The appointment of the Springbok coaches and management team are easily amongst the most important decisions we must take as an organisation. The next steps we take in that process will be in the very best interests of the Springbok team.

“We are aware that there is great public interest in the matter but supporters will understand that we have many factors to consider before any further announcements.”

Roux explained that the Exco appointed the head coach, dependent on ratification by the SARU General Council. “This has been a dramatic and ultimately heart-breaking season and, on behalf of SARU, I would like to thank Peter de Villiers, John Smit and the rest of the players and management for the effort and dedication, as well as the sacrifices, they made in our Rugby World Cup campaign,” said Roux.

“It is very painful to have fallen short of a semi-final place by one penalty kick but, having been close to the team in New Zealand, I know that the players and management did everything in their power to continue South Africa’s run of success at the Rugby World Cup.”

Media are advised that SARU will make no further comment on the process at this time.

The Springboks’ next test engagement is a three-Test series against England in South Africa in June next year.