Rassie Erasmus has revealed why he opted to return to the Springbok head coach role, stating: ‘I’ve seen this movie before, and I like it’.
Back in 2018, Rassie Erasmus returned from Ireland to take up the top job coaching the Springboks, and successfully led the side to the 2019 World Cup title.
He subsequently guided the Springboks to success in the British & Irish Lions series in 2021 after shifting into a key role as director of rugby, while Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber also masterminded the World Cup triumph in 2023.
Erasmus only managed a 65% win percentage over 26 Test matches in his first two years as “head coach,” but much more background is needed when one considers how he successfully revamped the team’s culture, strategy, and selection practices while propelling the Boks back to the top of the world rugby rankings.
After Nienaber left to join Leinster at the beginning of February, SA Rugby then declared that Erasmus will take over as head coach for the ensuing four years.
It would be an incredible accomplishment if Erasmus were to see out the remainder of his contract, which runs until 2027, and lead the Springboks for over ten years.
RASSIE ERASMUS LOVES THE SPRINGBOKS, AND SOUTH AFRICA
Ultimately, Erasmus said his decision to return to the cauldron of the head coach job was based on his total adoration for the Springbok name.
“I’m one of those guys who believes you should leave something if you truly love it and can’t give it your all.
“It’s time to leave if the fans want me gone and I’m not good enough. Even with all the pressure, I can’t conceive of a better job right now since I’m so in love with this nation, the way we live, and the way we support the Springboks.
During a press conference in Cape Town, he said, “I’ve seen this movie before, and I like this movie. People will be upset at times, and I will be upset at times.”
BOK MANAGEMENT:
Rassie Erasmus: Head Coach
Charles Wessels: Team Manager
Mzwandile Stick: Assistant Coach
Daan Human: Assistant Coach
Deon Davids: Assistant Coach
Tony Brown: Assistant Coach
Jerry Flannery: Assistant Coach
Andy Edwards: Head of Athletic Performance
Sebastian Prim: Sport Scientist
Paddy Sullivan: Performance Analyst
Lindsay Weyer: Technical Analyst
Jaco Peyper: Laws and Discipline Advisor
Dr Jerome Lehlogonolo Mampane: Team Doctor
Dr Aneurin Robyn: Physiotherapist
Rene Naylor: Physiotherapist
JJ Fredericks: Logistics Manager
Zintsika Tashe: Operations Manager
Zeena Isaacs van Tonder: Media Manager
