Pumas coach Jimmy Stonehouse has ruled himself out of contention as a possible candidate to take over from John Mitchell as Bulls boss.

The 54-year-old says the Bulls’ indecision and uncertainty around their coaching structure and the excessive amount of time it has taken to get to this point, were the main reasons behind his decision to make himself unavailable.

‘I understand that the Bulls have to make the right decision regarding the new coach and therefore they are in no hurry. But if I read the media reports correctly, then it appears as though things are already in place with a coach to lead the Super Rugby team,’ Stonehouse said in a statement.

He added that he is resigned to stay on as head coach and director of rugby of the Pumas, who he feels could well be included in an expanded Pro14 competition in future.

‘I can’t have my bread buttered on both sides. Therefore I pledge my allegiance to the Pumas and their future.’

Earlier in the week, the Bulls announced that an advisory committee, consisting of Rassie Erasmus, Blikkies Groenewald, Barend van Graan and Alan Zondagh, has been tasked with appointing Mitchell’s replacement.

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Photo: Dirk Kotze/Gallo Images