How Rassie Erasmus Transformed the Boks

Rassie Erasmus (coach) of the Springboks

Nick Mallett applauds Rassie Erasmus for unifying South African rugby beyond provincial loyalties by proactively engaging media and fans, something previous coaches failed to do. Having endured hostile press during his own tenure (1997–98), Mallett highlights Erasmus’s strategy of sharing clear information—rather than begging for support—which has turned the Springboks into a nationwide cause, attracting mixed-union crowds and fostering collective backing.

Erasmus admits he initially misjudged the media as adversaries but, after taking the Bok job in 2018, introduced initiatives like the “#StrongerTogether” workshop to clarify team philosophy without revealing tactics. This transparent approach has enabled accurate reporting, deeper fan understanding, and seamless integration across former tribal divides—helping guide South Africa to consecutive World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023.