By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Rassie Erasmus has confirmed that he will resume responsibilities as Springbok head coach and addressed concerns over depth at lock and hooker, with a view to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
While the Springboks have continued on their countrywide World Cup trophy tour, Erasmus has remained in the background, already planning towards a potential three-peat in 2027.
He will be without his right-hand man Jacques Nienaber, who has departed from his role as head coach to move to Ireland and join Leinster.
Erasmus, who guided the team to World Cup glory four years ago, transitioned to the position of director of rugby but continued to influence the team.
Their recent World Cup victory, a historic fourth title, was sealed with a 12-11 win over New Zealand in the final last month.
In the interview with Sunday newspaper Rapport, Erasmus raised his concern over South Africa’s depth in key positions, including lock and hooker.
Centurion lock Eben Etzebeth, who has been the Boks’ enforcer over the past decade, will be 36 years old in 2027, while the Munster duo of Jean Kleyn (34 in 2027) and RG Snyman (who will turn 32) will both also be in their 30’s, as will Franco Mostert (36).
“Eben is so athletic, but I don’t know if he still has a World Cup in him,” said Erasmus. “We may also be a bit thin at hooker.”
Bongi Mbonambi, who started the 2019 and 2023 World Cup finals, will be 36, while Malcolm Marx will be 32.
Erasmus name-checked Stormers wunderkind Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Sharks playmaker Curwin Bosch as players who could offer competition at flyhalf going forward, along with Manie Libbok.
Erasmus is celebrated in the country for his innovative coaching style, tactical expertise, and ability to maximize his players’ potential, yet he has also faced criticism, notably for his video critique of Australian referee Nic Berry in the 2021 series against the British & Irish Lions, resulting in a match-day ban from World Rugby.