As they say, all good things must come to an end. Unfortunately, Rassie Erasmus won’t be Springboks coach forever.
Erasmus stands among the most successful figures in South African rugby history, with his influence stretching well beyond silverware into identity, culture, and sustained excellence.
He led the Springboks to three Rugby Championship titles (2018/19, 2024 and 2025), as well as the 2019 Rugby World Cup title in Japan.
Furthermore, he played a central role as director of rugby when South Africa won the 2021 British & Irish Lions series and then went back-to-back with Rugby World Cup success.
This was a defining era in Springboks history.
Attention inevitably turns to the future.
When Erasmus eventually does step away, who takes over from a figure of such magnitude?
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NEXT SPRINGBOKS COACH: THREE LEADING CANDIDATES
Erasmus has extended his Springboks contract through to 2031.
That means he will oversee the next two Rugby World Cups with the Springboks.
However, it is hard to see him staying beyond then. At some point, somebody will have to step up and fill his legendary boots as they usher in the era of Springboks rugby.
Here are the three leading candidates who could take over from Erasmus in the future.
1. MZWANDILE STICK (ASSISTANT COACH)
Mzwandile Stick is already embedded within the Springboks set-up, making him a natural successor.
His long-standing role as an assistant coach places him at the heart of the current system, philosophy, and player core.
SA Rugby has consistently emphasised its preference for a local coach, strengthening Stick’s case.
Add to that his deep institutional knowledge and years within the national structure, and he presents as a continuity candidate – someone who would maintain stability while evolving the team.
2. DEON DAVIDS (ASSISTANT COACH)
Deon Davids brings a slightly different profile.
Also a key member of the current Springboks coaching group, he combines national experience with prior head coaching exposure at professional level.
That edge matters.
His time with the Southern Kings provided hands-on leadership at the top level.
This is something Stick does not have to the same extent.
In a high-pressure Test environment, that experience could prove decisive.
3. FRANCO SMITH (GLASGOW WARRIORS HEAD COACH)
Franco Smith operates outside the current Springboks structure, but remains a compelling contender.
Now leading Glasgow Warriors, he has built a reputation as one of the sharpest rugby minds in the game.
His transformation of the Scottish outfit into a United Rugby Championship-winning side in 2024 underlines his credentials.
More than that, it showcased his ability to deliver under pressure, adapt tactically, and maximise talent.
Replacing Erasmus won’t be simple.
But South African rugby is not short on strong, credible options.
In fact, I am sure that Rassie himself has transition plans in place to replace himself in the future, such is the mindset of the mastermind and rugby genius.
WHO DO YOU THINK SHOULD BE THE NEXT SPRINGBOKS HEAD COACH WHEN RASSIE ERASMUS LEAVES?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below …
