Rassie Erasmus becomes head coach of South Africa

In a statement to South African media on Sunday, Rassie Erasmus confirmed his return as the head coach of South Africa, the role he held when the team claimed the 2019 World Cup.

Erasmus will take over from long time collaborator, Jacques Nienaber, following this year’s successful Rugby World Cup campaign.

Nienaber led the Springboks to their second consecutive victory and will move to a new position at Leo Cullen’s Leinster.

Bulls’ Jake White post-match press conference v Zebre

Bulls’ Jake White post-match press conference v Zebre

Assistant coach Felix Jones will be making his way to Steve Borthwick’s England setup.

Erasmus, who guided the team to World Cup glory four years ago, transitioned to the position of South Africa’s 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.

Reports from South African newspaper Rapport confirm Erasmus’s commitment to take over Nienaber’s responsibilities, with an eye on the unprecedented goal of securing a third consecutive World Cup triumph in 2027.

Erasmus is celebrated in South Africa 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.

Additionally, his social media posts criticizing opponents have drawn scrutiny.