Can Rassie Erasmus achieve the impossible?

The Springboks enter the next Rugby World Cup cycle with an advantage – a full four years to prepare. Head coach Rassie Erasmus is excited about the possibilities this extended timeline presents for his squad, hoping they can make history with a third consecutive World Cup win.

Erasmus Focus: Stability and Change

“Four years is a long time to mix and match, and we will certainly do that,” said Erasmus, who has resumed the head coach position. While some coaching staff changes have occurred, the Springboks will maintain the core principles that brought them recent success.

“We will continue to build depth and experience while transforming,” Erasmus insisted. “We will tick those boxes while trying to win.”

Building for the Future

With several key players around 32 years old, the team will see changes ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Erasmus encourages his players to focus on the present while he keeps the long-term goal in mind.

“I’ll look to 2027 in my head and plan towards it. The players must focus on Wales and Ireland and the URC games and doing better.”

Erasmus: Future Focused Experiments

The June Test against Wales at Twickenham provides a chance for Erasmus to test young talent, especially with European-based players unavailable. He’ll be careful in his selection, mindful of the Springboks’ previous experience in a similar scenario in Washington in 2018.

Erasmus can also try new players against Portugal before fielding his established stars in the Rugby Championship. He intends to utilize his comprehensive player database to identify those with potential to contribute to the Springbok cause come 2027.

Future Focus Amidst Challenges

With only the Bulls performing well in the URC, rebuilding confidence across the South African teams will be important. Erasmus may need to deliver some motivational pep talks before the international season starts, especially for the underperforming Sharks squad.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES BY LUKE MENEZIES