Agent claims White 'very unlikely' to lead the Lions

Published on Wednesday 7 May 2008 23:33

JAKE White's agent does not expect the World Cup-winning coach to lead the British & Irish Lions' tour of South Africa next year.

Craig Livingstone, the former South Africa coach's representative, insists White has not been approached over a role with the Lions, who are expected to name their new coach next week.

"We haven't been contacted at all regarding the position, so I'm sure it would go to one of the coaches of England, Ireland, Scotland or Wales," said Livingstone.

"So it's very unlikely that Jake would be involved in such a position."

Livingstone, whose client had also been linked with the Ireland post until yesterday's appointment of Declan Kidney, went on to outline White's plans for 2009.

"He's involved with a whole lot of business opportunities that he's busy with in South Africa," Livingstone said.

"He's also doing quite a few corporate engagements and he's doing some consulting work for the IRB (International Rugby Board] with the smaller tier countries and that's really what he's focusing on right now."

White led the Springboks to their second World Cup triumph in France last year, defeating England 15-6 in the final. He was also named IRB international coach of the year for the second time.