IRISH RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION: Gert Smal statement regarding the position of South Africa Head Coach

“I was deeply honoured to be linked to the position of Head Coach for the Springbok team and having being involved with the team before, it was obviously something that I would have thought about very carefully. A big part of that consideration would be my connection to the Ireland team as well as my desire to see out my contract as I am very happy here.

“Declan and the IRFU showed great faith in bringing me here and it has been a wonderful experience from a professional point of view, as well as for my family. There is still such great potential and opportunities for the Ireland team and I have great faith in the players that we can achieve things together with the coaching staff.

“I have not given up on the possibility of coaching my country in the future, but my focus now is on Ireland and on our first game in The RBS 6 Nations Championship.”