Rassie Erasmus expects competition for Jacques Nienaber’s signature after confirming Springboks’ stance
Ex-Springboks coach Jacques Nienaber and an inset of Rassie Erasmus
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus says he will explore the possibility of adding Jacques Nienaber to his coaching team in 2027.
Nienaber oversaw a successful defence of the Boks’ Rugby World Cup title in 2023 as head coach after masterminding the defensive structures that clinched the title four years prior in Japan.
Following the success in France, the man dubbed ‘The Minister of Defence’ by the South African public, packed his bag for Ireland, joining Leinster until the end of the 2025/26 season.
Rassie and Jacques to reunite?
It’s long been speculated that the former Bok coach would return to the Springboks fold ahead of the 2027 World Cup in Australia, and the theory was only fuelled by Nienaber’s coy response in an interview this weekend, where he admitted that he misses the setup.
The 53-year-old has extended his contract for another season at Leinster, meaning that he would only be available at the start of the 2027 southern hemisphere international season, but said he hasn’t made plans beyond the conclusion of the 2026/27 campaign.
He told SuperSport: “I’ll be out of contract at the start of the international season in the southern hemisphere. So, you never know how things will work out. You can try to plan life…”
‘I miss the Springboks’ – Jacques Nienaber addresses future beyond Leinster
Asked about Nienaber’s comments after naming his Springboks team to tackle Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, Erasmus did not hide from the fact that they are interested.
“I see a world where [it’s possible]… I had lunch with him yesterday,” said Erasmus. “We always see each other whenever there’s an opportunity, when he comes to South Africa or we fly over here.
“We would never want to ruin his relationship and reputation here in Ireland but if Jacques tells me, or Ireland allows him to consult in the year of 2027, and we have the money to afford him in that year, there’s no egos in our management and coaching team.”
However, the head coach expects competition for the World Cup-winning coach’s signature if he is available for the World Cup.
“A brain like him will… but I think the Irish might also use him, or the English might use him if he’s got that,” he said.
“I don’t know what his contract says exactly, but yes, we will have a look at that.”
While Nienaber is bound to be high on many nations’ shortlists for the World Cup in some shape or form, South Africa would surely have the upper hand with an emotional pull.
There is an opportunity to complete the three-peat of titles, having played a crucial role in winning the first two World Cups.
Not to forget it’s his home country and he’d be working with his long-time friend Erasmus.
