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Nienaber being nudged back to Boks?

Noel McNamara’s expected appointment as the successor to Leinster head coach Leo Cullen reportedly spells the end of Jacques Nienaber’s time with the Irish club.

By Devin Hermanus · SA Rugby Magazine

Published: Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 6:19 AM

Key Things to Know

Jacques Nienaber is reportedly nearing an exit from Leinster to potentially rejoin Rassie Erasmus' Springboks coaching setup.
Noel McNamara is expected to replace head coach Leo Cullen at Leinster ahead of the 2027-28 campaign.
A six-month break clause in Nienaber's expiring contract reportedly allows him to make an early departure.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Jacques Nienaber is reportedly set to leave Leinster, pointing toward a possible reunion with Rassie Erasmus and the South Africa Springboks ahead of the 2027 World Cup. The move follows reports that Noel McNamara will succeed Leo Cullen as Leinster head coach when Cullen steps down in 2027.

Nienaber's current contract with Leinster expires at the end of the season, and a six-month break clause could allow an early departure. Since joining as senior coach in November 2023, Nienaber helped Leinster claim two United Rugby Championship titles and reach two Investec Champions Cup finals.

Read the full article on SA Rugby Magazine

Nienaber being nudged back to Boks?

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