Former Springbok captain Bobby Skinstad opens up on ‘turbulent’ relationship with Rassie Erasmus

Former Springbok captain Bobby Skinstad has revealed the truth about his turbulent relationship with Rassie Erasmus during their playing days.

Speaking on The Good, the Bad and the Rugby podcast, Skinstad admitted their connection was “terrible,” though they never stopped speaking. “We were competing for the same position,” he said. “He played No 7, I played No 7. I was such a jerk at the time that I wasn’t interested in anything except what was best for me – and he was probably the same.”

Rivalry, Ego, and Growth

Their Springbok careers overlapped in the late 1990s and early 2000s, a time Skinstad described as driven by ego and ambition. Both players fought for dominance on the field, often pushing personal goals above teamwork.

However, as years passed, Skinstad’s perspective changed. He now deeply respects Erasmus’ evolution. “It’s his transition I’m talking about,” he said. “He reached a different level of insight as a coach. I was a commentator for 10 years while he was developing, so I could see the change and what he did.”

From Rivals to Respect

Skinstad praised Erasmus for transforming the Springboks and reshaping national unity. “He worked incredibly hard to make the Springboks something that makes most South Africans feel good. It used to be a small white base, but now the whole country comes to a standstill when the Boks play.”

Although he joked about past training-field clashes, Skinstad’s admiration is genuine. “I have no reason to sit here and sing his praises – we hated each other. But the respect is sky-high. He has worked extremely hard for what he does and how he applies his craft. It’s incredible.”