Winless Bath appoint Brent Janse van Rensburg as defence coach
BATH, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 09: A general view of "The Rec" before the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Bath Rugby and Worcester Warriors at The Recreation Ground on September 09, 2020 in Bath, England. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Bath Rugby have confirmed the appointment of Brent Janse van Rensburg as defence coach for the remainder of the 2021/22 season.
The South African has already landed in the United Kingdom and is currently undergoing ten days mandatory isolation before joining up with the North East Somerset club.
“We made it clear following our review outcome that we intended to bring in a specific defence coach who could add to our group immediately,” Director of Rugby Stuart Hooper said.
“We are excited to welcome Brent to the club and look forward to the impact he can have on our defence.”
On joining the North East Somerset club: van Rensburg said: “Bath is a great club, with a clear vision and a lot of promise for great rewards to be seen in the future.
“I am grateful to Bath for the opportunity and all the incredible people and experiences that have added huge value to my growth and journey to date. I hope to make a positive contribution to Bath in return and forge some good friendships along the way.
Sat bottom of the Premiership, Bath Rugby are winless in all competitions this term. Injuries have been a huge contributing factor, but the expectant West Country crowd have began to grow impatient with Director of Rugby Stuart Hooper.
Despite there being no relegation this term – as the league expands to 14 teams, Bath Rugby being bottom of the Premiership table is unforgivable to its partisan support.
Bath have long been the South West’s dominant club. Yet in recent years, they have been overtaken by Exeter Chiefs. The blue, black and whites fiercest rivals Leicester Tigers currently sit unbeaten at the top of the Premiership, adding insult to injury for supporters.
Is departing Johann van Graan destined for The Rec?
Munster head coach Johann van Graan will leave his post at the end of the season having declined a two-year contract extension.
The South African will have been at the helm of the province for nearly five years when he departs next summer.
Rumours on both sides of the Irish Sea have suggested that Johann van Graan is in line to take over the reigns at The Rec next season.
