Shaun Edwards opens door to Springboks move after becoming free agent

Thursday, 20 August 2026 at 13:19

bySteven Smith

Shaun Edwards has previously revealed he would “love” to coach the Springboks as speculation begins over his next move following his departure from France.

The highly-rated defence coach is available after his successful spell with Les Bleus came to an end earlier this summer.

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France boss Fabien Galthié officially confirmed Edwards' departure in June, bringing an end to a six-year spell in which the Englishman helped transform the French defence and contributed to three Six Nations titles.

Attention will now turn to where the 59-year-old could end up next – and previous comments suggest South Africa could be an attractive destination.

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Edwards would 'love' Springboks role

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live earlier this year, Edwards revealed his ambition to coach in the southern hemisphere and specifically named the Springboks.

He said: “I have an ambition to win a Rugby Championship, to be honest.

“I would love to be involved with the All Blacks or Springboks or Argentina maybe.”

The comments are particularly interesting following his unexpected exit from France, where he had originally been contracted beyond the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Edwards has previously coached against the Springboks extensively during his spells with Wales and France, while he was also part of the British and Irish Lions coaching staff for their 2009 tour of South Africa.

What next for Edwards?

There is currently no suggestion that Rassie Erasmus or SA Rugby have approached Edwards, but his availability could make him one of the most sought-after coaches in world rugby.

Edwards has built a formidable reputation during spells with Wasps, Wales and France and is regarded as one of the leading defence specialists in the game.

His departure from France was confirmed by Galthié, who paid tribute to the coach's contribution and said it had been necessary to evolve the organisation.

For Edwards, meanwhile, his Rugby Championship ambition is now particularly intriguing.

The Springboks have been named as somewhere he would “love” to work.

The question is whether the call will ever come.

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Springboks handed toughest route to 2027 Rugby World Cup final

South Africa's quest for an unprecedented third successive Rugby World Cup title is beginning to take shape after the 2027 tournament draw was confirmed.

Rassie Erasmus' side have been handed a favourable pool on paper, but the knockout stages promise far tougher challenges. We take a look at the Springboks' projected route to the final and the obstacles standing between them and more history.

Pool stage draw

South Africa have been placed in Pool B alongside Italy, Georgia and Romania.

It looks like a favourable draw for the reigning world champions, with Italy expected to be their biggest rival for first place. Georgia's physical approach and Romania's powerful set piece should still demand respect, but South Africa will expect to top the group.

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Round of 16

The Springboks are currently projected to face the runner-up from Pool E, which is likely to be Japan or the USA depending on how that group develops.

Either side would be viewed as a manageable opponent, although South Africa will not have forgotten their famous defeat to Japan in 2015. They should still be expected to progress comfortably.

Quarter-finals

A quarter-final against one of the leading Tier 1 nations appears most likely, with New Zealand or Australia the probable opponents. England are an outside possibility, but that would require them to finish third in their pool, making that scenario unlikely.

Pool A is expected to be won by either New Zealand or Australia. While the All Blacks look stronger on paper, Australia will benefit from home advantage. Whoever emerges will provide South Africa's first major challenge of the tournament.

Semi-finals

The most likely opponents would come from the top half of Pool E, with France, Ireland, Argentina and Scotland all potential contenders. If results go as expected, France are the team most likely to reach this stage.

Although Les Bleus have occasionally found southern hemisphere opposition difficult, their world class talent makes them one of the strongest teams in the competition and a serious obstacle.

Final

England are the most likely opponents if South Africa reach the final, although New Zealand cannot be ruled out. England, Ireland and Argentina all appear well placed to come through the opposite side of the draw.

If the All Blacks fail to win their pool, they would also only be able to face the Springboks in the final.

Predicted Springboks World Cup route:

Pool Stage: 1st
Round of 16: Japan
Quarter-final: New Zealand
Semi-final: France
Final: England

2027 World Cup Draw

Pool A

New Zealand
Australia
Chile
Hong Kong

Pool B

South Africa
Italy
Georgia
Romania

Pool C

Argentina
Fiji
Spain
Canada

Pool D

Ireland
Scotland
Uruguay
Portugal

Pool E

France
Japan
USA
Samoa

Pool F

England
Wales
Tonga
Zimbabwe

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!