Rassie Erasmus is one of the greatest coaches – and characters – in the game, and the 53-year-old is widely recognised as a national treasure in South Africa, but he has also created some enemies overseas due to his outspoken nature and different ways of doing things.
The Springbok boss has recently extended his contract through to 2031, so he is not going anywhere soon, although it is now a pressure period as the team heads into a blockbuster season in 2026 before aiming to defend their World Cup title.
Looking at the impact Rassie has had on the game, former England fullback Ben Foden acknowledged he could be a divisive figure, but that he currently was walking the talk.
“When you win back-to-back World Cups and you’ve been sitting at number one in the world for the last few years, it helps! I’m sure the air that he breathes is very crisp and very rarified. He can’t really put a foot wrong,” Foden told BOYLE Sports, who have been offering the latest Six Nations odds.
“But I’m sure he comes under pressure as well. He’s got to maintain it. He’s already in the papers saying he’s not interested in watching England because he’s only interested in who is going to be the next threat for South Africa.”
Love him or hate him, Rassie’s global impact is undeniable
Foden also highlighted how it was clear that Erasmus had secure the buy-in and backing of his players.
“He’s always stirring the pot. He always knows how to get the best out of his players. We’ve seen that from sort of behind the scenes of different TV shows and things he’s been involved in.
“It’s great to have characters, to have a head coach that’s willing to be out there, putting himself on the block. He’s got the will and the nerve to back it up and luckily, he’s coaching a great bunch of guys who back up his words every time they go out in the field.”
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