Jacques Nienaber set for Springboks exit after Rugby World Cup 2023

Nienaber is set to join Ireland's most successful rugby union Leinster after the 2023 World Cup in France, and has cited "personal reasons" for his decision.

“The last few years have been the highlight of my coaching career and it’s with a heavy heart that I’m finishing up my time with the Springboks and leaving the country for personal reasons,” said Nienaber.

“The decision is made and that’s firmly behind me now. My sole focus is on seeing the Springboks defend the Rugby World Cup title this year. I will continue to channel all my energy into ensuring that we leave no stone unturned to achieve that.”

Having served as assistant to current Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus at the 2019 World Cup, Nienaber will be hoping to claim World Rugby's most sought-after prize as head coach, to end a lengthy journey with SA Rugby.

"Jacques was very open with us about the reasons for wanting to leave South Africa at the end of the season," said SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer.

"We will confirm a successor in the title role of Springbok coach in due course – that planning will go on in the background, but Rassie Erasmus’ services are locked in to the end of 2025 at the very least.”