Joubert has been asked to coach the Blue Bulls

No one thought that the opportunity would come this soon, but BBC Wales understand the club will honour the deal and appoint Wales' most capped prop despite his lack of coaching experience.

Geraint John, who was thought to be a leading candidate to take over Cardiff along with Ebbw Vale and Wales A coach Mike Ruddock, will remain in charge of the backs as assistant coach.

The South African Rugby Football Union confirmed on Tuesday that they have written to Cardiff asking to approach Joubert, who has one year of his Arms Park contract to run.

Joubert knows this is an opportunity he cannot afford to miss given his ambition to coach the Springboks.

As Cardiff have a replacement already in place on paper, Joubert's move is all set to go through as soon as compensation can be agreed and the formalities finished off.