GRAPHIC: Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus reveals the GRUESOME extent of his chemical burns

Springboks mastermind Rassie Erasmus has revealed the extent of the chemical burns that hospitalised him late last month.

The 51-year-old suffered severe chemical burns in what was described as a “freak” incident, with a statement from South Africa Rugby claiming he would be back in good health and returning to work within a couple of weeks.

Very severe burns

There have been few updates on the situation since the news broke until Erasmus took to X, formerly Twitter, to showcase his burns in response to a sporting event he missed.

The images shared by the great rugby mind are very graphic and severe; viewer discretion is advised.

wens ek kon daar. wees! weldone!! amper gesond ! pic.twitter.com/IR5rPSUH2C

— Rassie Erasmus (@RassieRugby) February 3, 2024

Delayed announcements

As a result of the unfortunate situation, announcements around the Springboks coaching shake-up have been delayed, with Erasmus set to return to the head coach role as he pushes for an unprecedented three-peat of Rugby World Cup titles.

Reports suggest there will be two new coaches joining the backroom staff, with former All Black Tony Brown taking over the attack, as confirmed by Stuff. Meanwhile, Irishman Jerry Flannery, who worked with Erasmus at Munster, is believed to be taking over the defensive coaching duties.

There is more movement with more reports claiming that former Springbok and two-time World Cup winner Duane Vermeulen set to take up a “high-level” position in SA Rugby with the details of that still to be confirmed.

Fresh cycle

Erasmus has much to think about regarding how to deal with the next four years, as a strong portion of the core group that went back-to-back may not be able to make it to the 2027 edition in Australia.

The tactician will have to balance which of the old guard to keep whilst also deciding when to blood new talent at the highest level. It all makes for fascinating viewing as the Springboks chase history.

Springboks Test fixtures for 2024

Saturday, July 6: South Africa v Ireland (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria)
Saturday, July 13: South Africa v Ireland (Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban)
Saturday, July 20: South Africa v Portugal (Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein)
Saturday, August 31: South Africa v New Zealand (Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg)
Saturday, September 7: South Africa v New Zealand (DHL Stadium, Cape Town)
Saturday, September 28: South Africa v Argentina (Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit)

READ MORE: Duane Vermeulen appointed to high-profile SA Rugby position as Rassie Erasmus changes role – report