JOHANNESBURG, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- South African Rugby (SA Rugby) on Friday confirmed that they have severed ties with the South African national rugby team coach Allister Coetzee with immediate effect.

Coetzee has been coaching the South African rugby team (the Springboks) for the past two years. "First and foremost we had to assess what is in the best interests of the Springboks. We would like to thank Allister for his passion and dedication to the Springbok cause and wish him every success in his next role," The CEO of SA Rugby, Jurie Roux said.

The confirmation of the new Springbok management set-up is due to be completed before the end of February.

Coetzee also confirmed that he has parted ways with the Springboks. "I have always held Springbok rugby dear to my heart and will continue to do so and for that reason I think now is the time the team and me strike out in new directions. I wish Springbok rugby every success in the future -- as I have always done," Coetzee said. Enditem