PRETORIA – In a surprise move and contrary to rife speculation of former Bulls and Springbok captain Victor Matfield's imminent appointment, Pote Human has been named as the new Bulls coach.
Human, who was already assistant coach to the Super Rugby team, takes over the reins from John Mitchell who left Loftus Versfeld in September for a lucrative job as England defence coach.
Human's appointment is a major about turn by the Blue Bulls Company from their preferred candidate Matfield who allegedly made late demands that the Bulls could not meet.
Matfield, Human and Southern Kings coach Deon Davids had been the three names on the coaching shortlist.
#HumanFactor The BBCo are proud to announce POTE HUMAN as Vodacom Super Rugby HEAD COACH going into the 2019 season #BullsFamily pic.twitter.com/vIjKCz8mRO
— Official Blue Bulls (@BlueBullsRugby) December 11, 2018
"It is a privilege and an honour, I come a long way with the Bulls. It is a huge task and I know that people will want to see results," said Human.
Alan Zondagh has also been appointed as the Bulls director of rugby.