Mitchell’s compensations talks as he departs for England

It appears the only obstacle in the way of John Mitchell’s departure for England is the release fee requested by the Bulls.

Various reports have indicated that Mitchell will be joining England as defence coach, with the New Zealand Herald saying that there is an official agreement for him to replace Paul Gustard.

Mitchell’s contract is set to start next month and then extend through to the end of the World Cup.

In the meanwhile, the English RFU are in compensation negotiations with the Bulls.

Netwerk24 reported on Sunday that that the Bulls had rejected the RFU’s offer of £50 000 (R900 000) in compensation, asking for £500 000 (R9 million) instead. SA Rugbymag however has reported that the amount is not as astronomical as £500 000 but os believed to be more than 10%.

Regardless, it is clear that Mitchell’s time at the Bulls is set to end prematurely (with his contract only due to expire at the end of October 2019), as he Joins Eddie’s England after previously being a forward coach under Sir Clive Woodward between 1997-2000.