The Cheetahs coach, Franco Smith, as well as the Lions defence specialist, JP Ferreira, have been included in Allister Coetzee’s technical staff.

Smith will be responsible for the backline as well as skills.

Ferreira takes up the role of defence coach left vacant by Chean Roux who was in charge during the Rugby Championship on a temporary basis.

The former Springbok flyhalf, Louis Koen, will also be joining the team to Europe as the kicking specialist.

When asked about his role at the Springboks, Smith said for now he just wants to concentrate on the Currie Cup Final.

“I’d prefer to concentrate on the Currie Cup now, to be honest,” said Smith.

“We had a quick chat but next week is obviously a different week.

“I don’t want to elaborate too much on it until after the game. I think it’s better to concentrate on what we’ve got to do on Saturday.”

The Cheetahs prop Ox Nche, centre Francois Venter, and winger Sergeal Petersen are all expected to be named in the Springbok squad for the End-of-year tour.

OFM Sport has reliably been informed that the trio were in Johannesburg yesterday in order to sort of their visas.

The flanker, Uzair Cassiem, is also in line for higher honours, but as a standby player.

The Springbok squad will be named on Saturday evening at the conclusion of the Currie Cup final.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport