Rassie responds to ‘report’ he’s quitting Springboks

· The South African

It’s the start of a new month, 1 April, and a cheeky April Fool’s Day article clearly caught some unsuspecting Springbok fans off guard when it was suggested that Rassie Erasmus has signed a multi-year deal to replace Steve Borthwick as England head coach.

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Some fans who reacted to the article in the comments section clearly fell for the prank by SARugbymag.co.za, despite it clearly being a playful April Fools’ Day joke.

The article made this clear by suggesting Erasmus was set to formally resign from SA Rugby on April Fool’s Day, while comically adding: “Personal reasons are also believed to have played a role, with Rassie’s beloved bulldog, Frank, keen to return to his roots in Britain.”

Springbok boss Rassie Erasmus not unaware of the date

Considering some had fallen for the prank, it seems like Erasmus may have also received a few panicked messages as he quickly took to social media with a simple post reminding everyone it was “1 April”.

One user responded: “I almost fainted. Thank you.”, while another commented: “Is this an April fools joke? because I am about to flatline!”

Nothing to worry about

Of course, in reality, Rassie has extended his contract with the Springboks until 2031.

Erasmus, a former Springbok captain, was first appointed as Director of Rugby in 2018 and under his guidance, South Africa won successive Rugby World Cups in 2019 and 2023.

In 2024, his title changed to Springbok head coach, and he has not only overseen South Africa winning the Rugby Championship in the last two years, but they also finished the last three seasons as the top-ranked team in the world.

This was a quick and easy conversation to reach agreement. I have always said that I would find it hard to coach any other international team, and I’m very happy to continue as long as the South African public wants me,” Erasmus commented in a statement.

“I’d like to thank SA Rugby and the franchises for the support and backing they have given me and the Springboks over the past few years. It hasn’t always been easy but we’re improving. Although this a long-term agreement we’re not looking beyond a really tough 2026 schedule right now.”


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