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4d ago

Leinster Extends Nienaber, McBryde and Bleyendaal to 2027, Reshapes Support Staff

The multi-year deals signal continuity, quieting talk of a Springboks return for Nienaber.

Leinster coach Jacques Nienaber will stay in Ireland for another two seasons. Picture: Tyler Miller/Sportsfile via Getty Images
Contract extension that rules out possible Bok comeback
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PARIS, FRANCE - OCTOBER 15: Jacques Nienaber, Head Coach of South Africa, speaks with Rassie Erasmus, Coach of South Africa, prior to the Rugby World Cup France 2023 Quarter Final match between France and South Africa at Stade de France on October 15, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Leinster confirmed contract extensions for Jacques Nienaber, Robin McBryde and Tyler Bleyendaal through the end of the 2026/27 season, announced one week before the URC opener in Cape Town.
  • A new Provincial Kicking Coach role has been created to align the senior squad with the pathway system, with Emmet Farrell appointed while he continues as the senior team’s kicking coach.
  • Brian Colclough moves up to Lead Performance Analyst as Juliette Fortune steps into a more senior position within the analysis team.
  • Head coach Leo Cullen framed the changes as a plan for consistency and alignment across UCD, the clubs and schools network, and the Ken Wall Centre of Excellence in Donnybrook.
  • Coverage in South Africa notes the extension is widely seen as shelving speculation of Nienaber rejoining the Springboks before the 2027 Rugby World Cup.