To say South Africa exploded a few cosy theories would be the understatement of the rugby year. So much for the idea, for example, that France would avenge the injustice of their World Cup quarter-final defeat to the Springboks. If anything, ‘Rassie’ Erasmus’s champion Bok forwards are starting to make everyone else look laissez-faire by comparison. If South Africa do go on to win a third successive World Cup there will be no doubt whatsoever. South Africa head coach Johan 'Rassie' Erasmus reacts during Saturday's Test against France in Paris.

Source: The Irish Times November 11, 2025 07:11 UTC