Johan Ackermann will reportedly remain employed by SA Rugby and help coach the Junior Springboks for at least two more months.
According to Rapport, the former Lions coach – whose six-month contract as a consultant was set to expire on 30 June – has signed an extension that keeps him on the books until the completion of the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy (29 June–19 July).
It is understood that Saru general manager Dave Wessels’ intervention ensured Ackermann will remain with the squad throughout their campaign.
Rapport understands that any negotiations with other teams would need to accommodate Ackermann’s extended commitment to the Junior Boks.
The 54-year-old joined Saru in January after concluding his technical advisor role with Japan’s Urayasu D-Rocks.
The Junior Boks kicked off their U20 Rugby Championship last week with a 36-25 victory over Argentina at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with Australia next up on Tuesday.
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JUST IN:Dixon seeks arbitration meeting with the Stormers over contract.
Ben-Jason Dixon wants an arbitration meeting with the Stormers to resolve a clause in his current deal, allowing the Springbok flanker to consider overseas offers.
Rapport reports that Dixon formally requested the intervention via email on Friday, with proceedings expected within two weeks to determine his future at the Cape outfit.
At the heart of the disagreement is a clause stating: “Either party has the right to terminate the agreement, by providing written notice to the other party before March 1, 2025, in which case the agreement will terminate on June 30, 2025 if mutually agreed by both parties.”
While Dixon reportedly hopes to eventually remain with the Stormers, sources told Rapport he seeks acknowledgment of this clause to potentially explore opportunities abroad should his Bok prospects diminish.
The 27-year-old has earned five Test caps since his 2024 debut against Wales.
The Stormers maintain Dixon’s contract until 2027 is binding, having reportedly offered an extension to 2028 with immediate salary adjustments and post-career employment opportunities.
