Since returning in 2018, Rassie Erasmus has transformed the Springboks into a dominant force. He has overseen 89 Tests as coach or director of rugby. The team won 64 matches, achieving a 72% win rate.
In 2024, Erasmus became full-time Springbok head coach. Since then, South Africa won back-to-back Rugby Championship titles. Additionally, they finished three consecutive seasons as the world’s top-ranked team.
As a result, SA Rugby extended his contract until 2031. The Springboks now aim for a third consecutive World Cup title.
Aplon Questions Long-Term Coaching Decision
However, former Springbok Gio Aplon raised concerns about the long-term plan. He suggested a new coaching team might suit the next generation.
“No other person in the world would say what I’m saying now, and yes, Rassie is the best coach at the moment, but I wouldn’t have signed him post-2027,” he said during an interview on the Behind the Ruck podcast.
“Because remember, the (Springboks’) old guard is walking in front now. The old guard is carrying this flag. But as soon as they’re out of the way with this coaching style and this group being together as a coaching staff and whatever, there’s a new breed coming through that might complain like they (the All Blacks players) complained with Razor (former All Blacks coach Scott Robertson).
“I’m not saying that’s going to happen but I’m very cautious with 2031. We haven’t even played this (2027) World Cup yet and we’ve given the job away.”
Aplon warned that a new player generation could require a different coaching approach.
Erasmus Confident in Long-Term Vision
Meanwhile, Erasmus remains fully committed to the Springboks’ future. He described the contract extension as a straightforward decision.
“This was a quick and easy conversation to reach agreement. I have always said that I would find it hard to coach any other international team, and I’m very happy to continue as long as the South African public wants me,” Erasmus commented.
“I’d like to thank SA Rugby and the franchises for the support and backing they have given me and the Springboks over the past few years. It hasn’t always been easy but we’re improving. Although this a long-term agreement we’re not looking beyond a really tough 2026 schedule right now.”
He emphasised focusing on immediate challenges rather than distant goals. Therefore, the team remains focused on upcoming competitions and steady progress.
Flipcash is Your Trusted PayPal & Crypto Exchange Partner in Zimbabwe — WhatsApp +263 77 163 9263
The post ‘I wouldn’t have extended Rassie’s contract’: Former Springboks star appeared first on iHarare News.
