Rassie already has Tony Brown's replacement lined up
REACTION: Rassie Erasmus is celebrated as the world’s most astute coach.
Some may dispute that, but his unmatched track record and tactical innovation speak for themselves.
That is why Erasmus has been remarkably at ease with the news that All Black Tony Brown is leaving the Springboks.
Brown, with 18 Test caps for New Zealand, will complete his current tenure as the Springboks’ attack coach and return home after the conclusion of the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
The 51-year-old will join the All Black coaching staff on a two-year contract from 2028.
Erasmus said they have been aware, from the outset in 2024, of Brown’s desire to return to New Zealand.
Speaking during a media briefing this week, Erasmus not only defended Brown’s decision to return home, he also revealed they already have potential replacements lined up.
(Article continues below ……)
“We already have guys in mind who we want to get in when Tony leaves,” the Bok coach said from his team’s training camp in Johannesburg.
He would not divulge potential candidates.
“We still want to learn so much from Tony over the next two years.”
Erasmus emphatically stated that it is wrong for people to attack the former All Black flyhalf.
“[I don’t understand] people who want to judge Tony [Brown] for going back to New Zealand,” Erasmus said.
“We are very happy for him,” he added.
“He is going back home, going to coach the All Blacks.
“He played for the All Blacks.
“You cannot be angry at the guy for that.”
Erasmus also revealed that Brown has been open and honest with the Bok management and the players about his desire to return home.
“He has been saying that for the last two years,” the Bok coach said of a stint that started in January 2024.
“We are so happy we have him for another two years.
“This is only halfway through his contract.
“This year’s Tests [13] and next year are the second half of his contract.”
The Bok coach also revealed the close bond he has with Brown, which made his stint with the Bok so enjoyable.
“Tony played with me at the Stormers, and I coached him there,” he added.
“We coached against Tony [at the 2019 World Cup] in Japan when we had that long maul [in the quarterfinal].
“Tony and I have come a very long way and we are very good friends.”
Brown and Erasmus will combine to secure an unprecedented third successive World Cup title for the Springboks Down Under next year.
@JanDKrugby
@rugby365com
Register your interest to receive priority updates on RWC27 ticket releases. Don't miss out, stay in the loop!
