The Cheetahs are reportedly eyeing veteran playmaker Ruan Pienaar for a coaching role as he approaches the end of his playing career.
According to newspaper Rapport, the Cheetahs’ director of rugby Frans Steyn confirms discussions with the 39-year-old Pienaar, emphasising the value his knowledge and experience would bring to the Free State outfit.
The 2007 World Cup-winning Springbok is set to play for the Cheetahs on 16 April before potentially transitioning to coaching. Steyn’s interest is heightened as the current head coach, Hawies Fourie, is a candidate for the Boland head coach position.
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“We have already spoken to Ruan about it,” Steyn told Rapport. “Ruan has so much knowledge of the game and experience, one would like to involve him. He will add a lot of value.
“For example, he was someone I listened to [in my playing days].”
Regardless of Fourie’s decision, Steyn sees an opportunity for Pienaar to contribute as a coach, possibly for the Cheetahs’ SA Cup team, as the franchise continues its search for coaching talent in preparation for the upcoming season.
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