CAPE TOWN – Will John Dobson answer the Bulls’ call?
The three-time Super Rugby champion Bulls are on the hunt for a new coach as John Mitchell’s departure is believed to be a ‘done deal’.
And, according to a reliable source, the Pretoria-based union have approached the Western Province Currie Cup coach to take up the role.
Dobson won the tournament with Province in 2017, and earlier this year, he was also linked with a role at Irish club Connacht.
But former Brumbies and Australian Sevens coach Andy Friend was later appointed.
Last week, the Bulls confirmed that England had shown interest in Mitchell’s services, but that no formal offer had been made.
It is understood that Mitchell will report for duty as England’s new defence coach as soon as next month as part of Eddie Jones’ management.
Mitchell was previously the England forwards coach between 1997 and 2000 under Sir Clive Woodward, and has been in charge of the All Blacks, USA, Waikato Chiefs, Lions and the Western Force, among others.
Other reported candidates for the Bulls job include former stars Fourie du Preez and Victor Matfield, as well as ex-Pumas mentor Jimmy Stonehouse.
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