'By a mile': Pieter-Steph delivers powerful verdict on Rassie Erasmus
SPOTLIGHT: There may be no greater tribute to Rassie Erasmus than the words of his captain Pieter-Steph du Toit.
“Playing under Rassie, he’s the best coach I’ve played under, by a mile,” Du Toit told reporters at a media briefing on Friday afternoon ahead of the Bok coach’s record-breaking 55th Test in charge against Scotland at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
The milestone moves Erasmus past 2007 World Cup-winning coach Jake White as the most-capped Springbok head coach, another remarkable achievement in a coaching career that has already delivered back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles and established him as one of the game’s greatest innovators.
For assistant coach Mzwandile Stick and captain Du Toit, Erasmus’ greatest legacy has little to do with tactical innovation or silverware. Instead, they speak about his humanity, humility and the culture he has built around the Springboks.
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“It’s special for us and we want to make it a good day for him,” Stick said.
“He really cares about everyone in that team room. He cares about the people of this country.
“For him to reach this milestone as the most-capped Springbok coach is something very special. Hopefully he can have many more. It’s also nice to see his family around because it’s not easy being away from your children all the time. Hopefully we can make it special for him on Saturday.”
Erasmus enters his 55th Test with an impressive record of 41 victories, one draw and just 12 defeats, a win percentage of almost 76 percent. Since returning as head coach in 2024, that success rate has climbed above 85 percent.
Stick, who has worked alongside Erasmus since 2018, believes the coach’s greatest strength is his willingness to evolve while empowering those around him.
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“One thing about Rassie is that he’s always been creative,” Stick said.
“He really works hard, understands exactly what he wants to achieve and isn’t scared to be wrong. If Pieter-Steph comes up with a better idea for the team, Rassie will say, ‘Let’s go with Pieter-Steph’s plan because that’s what’s best for South Africa.’
“He doesn’t have an ego. He respects the people around him, wants them to contribute and empowers everyone. That’s something very special.
“Sometimes people think they’re bigger than the game or bigger than the country. Rassie is not one of those people.”
Du Toit, one of Erasmus’ most trusted lieutenants, echoed the same sentiments, describing the Bok boss as the finest coach of his career.
“The excitement has never changed,” Du Toit said.
“From the first day I met Rassie until today, you think the excitement can’t get any bigger, but it always does.
“He always comes up with a plan, but he also gives us the opportunity to make plans and contribute. We’re always looking for ways, within the laws of the game, to give ourselves the best chance on Saturday. It’s awesome to be part of that.”
The double World Rugby Player of the Year also praised the trust Erasmus places in his players.
“His professionalism is unbelievable and his passion for the team and South Africa is incredible.
“As players, we get the trust from the coaches. They believe in us to represent our country and execute the plan, but they also allow you to play what you see in front of you.
“For me, being part of this Springbok team since Rassie arrived has been a huge honour and privilege.”
