English Rugby
Mallett: I will decide future in 2012
ESPNscrum Staff
November 22, 2011
Italy boss Nick Mallett keeps his eyes on the ball, Italy training session, Twickenham Stadium, London, England, February 11, 2011
Mallett has been linked with the vacant England post © Getty Images
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Nick Mallett will decide his future after the Six Nations amid speculation that England are still keen to recruit the former Springboks coach.

On the day Martin Johnson resigned as team manager of the national side, Mallett immediately ruled himself out of the post stating his wish to stay closer to home in South Africa. But with his name still firmly in the frame to replace the now departed Johnson, Mallett has revealed he will wait until the summer of 2012 before confirming where his future lies. With Jim Mallinder still the firm favourite to replace Johnson, the Rugby Football Union has had to endure a series of coaches ruling themselves out in the past week with Graham Henry and Richard Cockerill just two who have rejected the notion of following in Johnson's footsteps.

But the Rugby Football Union may harbour some hope in Mallett's delayed decision amid reports that they will turn to a caretaker for the 2012 Six Nations. "I've not spoken to anyone about international coaching positions," Mallett said. "But I would consider each on their own merits if it happens. I have been contacted regarding a few coaching jobs in the Top 14, but I don't think I'll take anything before June 2012."

And Mallett will coach the Southern Hemisphere select alongside Wayne Smith for their clash with the Northern Hemisphere at Twickenham on December 3 in aid of Help for Heroes. "My only commitment from a coaching point of view is the 'Help for Heroes' game," Mallett said. "I've been asked to coach the Southern Hemisphere team with Wayne Smith. That is an exciting prospect."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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