Erasmus’ new role

RASSIE ERASMUS is the new general manager of the South African Rugby Union’s high performance teams.

His new role means he will be involved with the Springboks and also work closely with South Africa’s other national sides.

“Rassie is one of the most astute brains in world rugby – his appointment at SARU will ensure we have the best possible leadership at our national teams,” says SARU chief executive Jurie Roux.

“Our aim is to always produce winning teams and Rassie’s main task will be to establish structures to do this. He will be tasked to create a blueprint for South African rugby that can be implemented from junior to senior level, for our men’s, women’s and sevens’ teams.”

Erasmus resigned as director of coach at the Western Province Rugby Union earlier this year.

Roux also announced that SARU have entered into formal negotiations with Bulls forwards coach Johann van Graan, former Springbok fullback and Blue Bulls backline coach Ricardo Loubscher, Bulls defence coach John McFarland and Bulls conditioning coach Basil Carzis.

SARU are also keen on securing the services of Cheetahs conditioning coach Niel du Plessis, former Springbok flyhalf Louis Koen, former French prop Pieter de Villiers and Bulls high performance manager Ian Schwartz.