Rassie Erasmus confirms Boks' interest in bringing Nienaber back

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has confirmed that South Africa hope to welcome back former head coach Jacques Nienaber back into the national set-up ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Nienaber, who guided the Springboks to World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, is currently senior coach at Leinster.

Nienaber revealed this week that his Leinster contract runs until the end of the 2026/27 club season. The international season for 2027 begins shortly after that, leaving the possibility of a national role open.

He said he missed the Springbok environment and did not rule out a return if circumstances align.

Speaking in Dublin ahead of South Africa’s clash with Ireland, Erasmus confirmed ongoing communication. “I had lunch with him yesterday,” he said, noting that they regularly meet whenever possible.

Erasmus also praised Nienaber’s rugby intellect and said the Springboks would explore options if permitted and financially viable.

He also acknowledged that other teams, including Ireland or England, may also seek Nienaber’s expertise given his reputation as one of world rugby’s top defensive minds.

“We would never want to ruin his relationship and reputation here in Ireland but if Jaques tells me, or Ireland allow 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.

“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. “I don’t know what his contract says exactly but yes, we will have a look at that.”