Erasmus explains Evan Roos' omission from Bok tour squad

REACTION: Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus took some time on social media to answer questions about one particular position ahead of his side’s end-of-year tour.

The debate around Evan Roos and the No.8 jersey has continued this week after the Stormers star was left out of the Bok squad for matches against Japan, France, Italy, Ireland and Wales.

Roos has been a key player for the Capetonians in the opening rounds of this season’s United Rugby Championship. He has also scored four tries.

However, he could only make the Springboks’ 10-man standby list for the upcoming tour, and some fans wanted answers from the Bok coach.

On X, one fan asked: “What happened between you and Roos, oom? You need to clear the air because this isn’t a normal situation.”

Erasmus replied: “My friend he is a world-class player and will play many Test matches for the Boks, we just have to really good eights in Jasper [Wiese] and Kwagga [Smith], and in my opinion, they are still delivering at a higher level than Evan!! So, who to drop.️ One thing is a given, he is a Test match player and will probably make it in 2027.”

My friend his a world class player and will play many test matches for the Boks, we just have to really good eights in Jasper en Kwagga and in my opinion they are still delivering at a higher level than Evan!! So who to. dropp🤷🏼‍♂️ One thing is a given he is a test match player and… https://t.co/IwFff2h8bm

— Johan Erasmus (@RassieRugby) October 23, 2025

Meanwhile, another fan wrote: “Kwagga is a world-class player and individual, but he hasn’t excelled in the No.8 position. With all due respect and no arrogance meant, he wouldn’t be a starting 8 for any top-tier provincial or international side. You’ve gotten this selection completely wrong.”

Erasmus again took time to reply to that statement.

“Obviously, we are not always right, and I hear and understand what you say!! Thanks for the way you discuss these things! I appreciate it! Ras,” was the Bok coach’s response.

The Springboks will begin their end-of-year tour against Japan at Wembley Stadium on November 1.

@rugby365com

Obviosly We are not always right,and I hear and understand what you say!! thanks for the way you discuss these things! I. appreciate it! Ras https://t.co/AznKlQn78a

— Johan Erasmus (@RassieRugby) October 23, 2025