Springbok coach, Rassie Erasmus and his injury. Images: Rassie Erasmus on X and SA Rugby website.
Rassie Erasmus reveals graphic chemical burn images!
Rassie Erasmus is recovering from severe chemical burns caused by a detergent accident, sharing his journey and progress on X.
Springbok coach, Rassie Erasmus and his injury. Images: Rassie Erasmus on X and SA Rugby website.
In a distressing turn of events, Springbok director of rugby and head coach, Rassie Erasmus, was hospitalised due to severe chemical burns. The incident occurred during an unexpected mishap involving a potent detergent product.
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Despite the grave nature of his injuries, Erasmus is on the mend and is anticipated to resume his full-time duties shortly.
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SA Rugby issued a statement confirming the incident: “Rassie Erasmus is recovering in hospital following a medical procedure for chemical burns sustained in a freak accident using a powerful detergent product. He is otherwise in good health and expects to return to full-time working within weeks.”
Erasmus Shares Recovery Journey on X
Erasmus, aged 51, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his regret over missing a women’s sevens event, concurrently revealing the extent of his injuries through graphic images. The images seemingly portrayed the evolution of his wounds from initial damage to the healing stages.
While grappling with his recovery, Erasmus did not shy away from addressing significant rugby issues. In January, he openly criticised coaches who avoid teaching players to lower their tackle height. This comment came in light of new regulations aimed at making the game safer at the club and school levels in South Africa.
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“Lowering the tackle height is coachable, so this cannot be used as an excuse – you need to coach and practise correct technique,” Erasmus insisted. He emphasised the importance of dynamic, game-like training over traditional tackle bag exercises, advocating for a more practical approach to improve technique and safety.
Rassie and Rugby’s Future
Erasmus’s ordeal has not dimmed his dedication to rugby, nor has it lessened his influence on the sport. As South Africa prepares for its Test match against Ireland in July, the lessons from Erasmus’s coaching philosophy and his personal resilience remain at the forefront.
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The rugby community eagerly awaits the return of this esteemed figure, hoping his recovery is as formidable as his presence on the field.
