John Mitchell named as the Bulls new Executive of Rugby

The Blue Bulls Rugby Union have confirmed that former All Blacks coach John Mitchell will replace Nollis Marais as the Bulls head coach ahead of the 2018  Super Rugby season. 

Mitchell will be the Bulls Executive of Rugby meaning that Nollis Marais will still coach the Currie Cup side, while Mitchell handles the Super Rugby side and the on field affairs.

The Bulls board also interviewed former  Springbok assistant coach Johann van Graan but opted for Mitchell.

The former All Blacks coach is currently the USA head coach and will be released from his role following the conclusion of the USA of the World Cup qualifiers in June.

While coaching the All Blacks from 2001 to 2003 Mitchell maintained an 82% winning record. Mitchell is well known in South Africa having previously coached the Lions, winning the 2011 Currie Cup, before being forced to leave the union in 2012. 

The USA won the Americas Rugby Championships earlier this year under the guidance of Mitchell.

John Newburry, Chairman of the board, elaborated on Nollis Marais’ role going forward, “Nollis will remain in his role as the Currie Cup Head Coach. The BBCo have invested a lot of time and resources in him over the past six years, and he has come through our ranks and has achieved many successes with the various teams over the years. He is a great coach and a true Blue Bull at heart.