Speculation continues over the long term future of Jake White as coach of the Brumbies with reports in England suggesting White has been short listed to take over the helm of the English national side.
White took over the reins of the Brumbies on a four year deal in July last year and since then rumours have circulated linking him to both the English and South African head coaching role. This news has raised some eyebrows amongst the Canberra community as he had barely started in that role although White has gone on record to say he still has ambitions of coaching at international level again but not before he sees out his tenure in the Capital, although reports today say that White will at least see out 2012.
The situation regarding the appointment to England position suggests the recruitment may come from outside the list of applicants. England would not want a repeat of their last World Cup campaign that resulted in embarassment both on and off the field. With the World Cup to be held in England’s backyard in 2015, the dangling carrot may be too much to refuse.
These rumours have been denied in the past on numerous occasions, even as recently as Monday but the noises are starting to get louder and could starting causing unrest amongst the ranks if not addressed soon and cause an unwanted distraction to the Brumbies Super Rugby season.
Is there fire with all this smoke?
UPDATE:
The Brumbies have today released a statement to address the speculation. The statement said: ‘Jake White today advised Brumbies Chief Executive Ansdrew Fagan was sounded out by the RFU as a candidate for its vacant coaching role and has declared interest in exploring his options.’
It then went on to say ‘Despite speculation that Jake has already been interviewed and offered the position, he has assured Brumbies Rugby that is not the case. Jake has also provided assurances that regardless of the eventual decision made by the RFU, he will remain in Canberra with the Brumbies for the rest of the 2012 Super Rugby season.’
