Springbok head coach candidate ratified by SARU

The preferred candidate to assume the vacant position as head coach of South Africa has been ratified by South Africa Rugby Union's (SARU) general council.

The Springboks have been without a coach since Heyneke Meyer stood down from the role in December following a third-placed finish at the Rugby World Cup last year.

Allister Coetzee, who worked under Jake White during his time at the South Africa helm between 2004 and 2007, is thought to be the frontrunner for the position.

Following the agreement by the general council, formal contract completion can occur with the appointment set to be announced on April 12.

"We are happy to have reached this point and are particularly excited with our final choice," said SARU president Oregan Hoskins.

"Today's ratification triggers the final part of the process. We're looking forward to being able to confirm our choice publicly."

South Africa will host Ireland in a three-Test series in June.

SARU also announced the appointment of Peter Jooste as a Springboks selector.