Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has never been one to colour within the lines—and as the Rugby Championship looms, he’s made it crystal clear: expect more daring detours and tactical sleight of hand from the maverick mastermind.
Erasmus, speaking ahead of South Africa’s opening clash against the Wallabies on 16 August at Ellis Park and Cape Town Stadium on August 23, confirmed that the Springboks would continue to embrace innovation and unpredictability—two traits that have come to define his coaching DNA.
“We will definitely be trying new things,” Erasmus said, a knowing glint behind his words.
“That doesn’t mean gimmicks, but things that suit the group we have and the challenges we expect. We’re not afraid to push boundaries.”
Whether it’s rolling out a 7-1 bench split, deploying forwards in unorthodox roles, or introducing surprise tactics mid-match, Erasmus has consistently rewritten the Bok playbook—and often left opponents scratching their heads.
Now, with the Rugby Championship as the next stage, the rugby world watches in anticipation—and perhaps a bit of apprehension—as Rassie prepares to reach back into his bag of tricks.
Andre Esterhuizen
“Winning is important, but evolving is even more crucial,” he said. “We want to give players the best tools to adapt, to problem-solve under pressure. That’s how you build a world-class team.”
You’ve got to keep innovating,” Erasmus declared with characteristic frankness.
“We’ve got one or two more plans and ideas up our sleeves. Opposition teams now know what we’re about and are developing systems to counter us.
“We’ll also definitely still use André Esterhuizen to continue in that hybrid role.”
Erasmus, rugby’s master tactician and maverick general, addressed the media on Tuesday during the Springboks’ high-altitude conditioning camp in Johannesburg.
His squad has been trimmed to a lean and hungry 37-man unit, battle-ready for their opening home Tests against the Wallabies.
The mood in camp is upbeat, with all hands on deck.
“Canan Moodie had a small hand niggle, like an infection, but he’s already back training with us,” Erasmus said.
“Cheslin [Kolbe] has a knee, but he should be training with us again from Monday.”
The Bok camp, usually a fortress of seasoned warriors, has opened its gates to youth with an eye on the future.
Three bright sparks from the Junior Springboks’ championship-winning cohort — Haashim Pead, Cheswill Jooste, and Bathobele Hlekani — have been invited to experience the inner sanctum of elite Test rugby.
Haashim Pead
“With them, we’re looking at possibilities for the 2027 World Cup,” Erasmus explained.
“They won’t play Test matches this year, and they know that.
“It’s just to see how quickly the young guys adapt to our environment and allowing them to participate in all our boardroom and field sessions is great for them to learn.
“We did the same with Ntokozo [Makhaza]. They are doing well and keeping up.”
As the Springboks fine-tune their armoury, Erasmus remains realistic about the road ahead. Though satisfied with their opening strides, he’s aware of the potholes that could derail their run.
“We’ve got to be careful,” he warned.
“We’re facing an Australian side that will have more rounded players, and who play with greater intensity.
“After the British & Irish Lions series, whether it’s 3-0 or 2-1, they’ll be battle-ready. A competitive Australian team will come here, and we can’t underestimate them.”
The Wallabies may be licking their wounds, but Erasmus expects them to arrive like wounded bulls in a china shop — unpredictable, angry, and dangerously explosive.
The Springboks, meanwhile, must strike the perfect balance between muscle memory and meaningful evolution if they are to outflank the old foes from Down Under.
Rassie’s message is clear: buckle up. The Boks aren’t just here to defend—they’re here to disrupt, dazzle, and redefine the limits of Test rugby.
