Stormers coach Robbie Fleck would like to remain at the union after his contract expires at the end of October. DYLAN JACK reports.

The Western Province RFU confirmed earlier this month that Dobson will take over from Fleck as Stormers head coach next year.

As part of the succession planning, Dobson and his Currie Cup coaching staff have been included in the management team for the 2019 Vodacom Super Rugby season to ensure a smooth transition.

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Fleck hinted to the media on Monday that he would like to stay on at WP.

‘I love this union,’ he said. ‘I have been working here for 20 years, 10 years as a player and 10 as a coach. My loyalty speaks for itself and that hasn’t disappeared at all.’

Fleck was linked to the Ospreys head coach job last year and said he would consider a move overseas.

‘I would also like to keep my options open and certainly will look abroad for an opportunity if there is one.

‘My contract [with WP] finishes on 31 October. So my first focus is to do well this year, help Dobbo and his team, get these players up to scratch start winning some games, and really enjoy my last bit as head coach of the Stormers. That is my intention.’

When asked if he would like to keep Fleck on in some capacity, Dobson said: ‘If you lose 20 years of IP [intellectual property] of knowing this region, it would be sad. If Fleckie stayed on I would be delighted because technically he is absolutely superb and he knows every inch of this union.

‘My relationship with Fleckie goes back far, so there is such a level of understanding [between us]. If he was in this building next year, I would be delighted. He has helped in Currie Cups, I have helped in Super Rugby. I would love him to stay on.’

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