Springboks vs Ireland: Erasmus’ unfinished business in Dublin

Rassie Erasmus’ Crossroads: A Duel with Ireland That Defines Seasons

The relationship between Rassie Erasmus and Irish rugby is a complex web of respect and frustration, especially when they face each other at the Aviva Stadium. For the Springboks, winning in Dublin is an unfinished business. After the victory in the 2023 World Cup, the Boks have triumphed in emblematic scenarios like Twickenham and the Principality Stadium, but the Irish challenge persists. Erasmus’ achievements at the helm of the Springboks are undeniable: two World Cups, a British & Irish Lions series, and two Rugby Championships. However, the history in Dublin is different. The last time South Africa won there was 13 years ago, under the direction of Heyneke Meyer.

The match on Saturday will define the Boks’ season. A victory would give them 11 wins in 13 matches, with Wales in Cardiff still to play. Erasmus emphasized the importance of this match: “It will be a great season if that happens.” The recent defeats against Ireland have left their mark. Erasmus remembers every detail of these encounters, as if they were etched in his memory. “We always come back in the final minutes, but we never manage to secure the victory,” Erasmus commented.

Furthermore, Erasmus’s history with Munster, where he was director of rugby, adds a layer of complexity. The tragic death of Anthony “Axel” Foley marked his time at the club. Despite this, he led Munster to the PRO12 final and the Champions Cup semi-finals, both at the Aviva Stadium. His subsequent departure to coach the Springboks created tensions, but also left an indelible mark on his philosophy. Erasmus has stated that he has learned a lot in Ireland, especially about discipline and focus, aspects that he has transferred to South Africa. While he denies that the match is a personal matter, he acknowledges the desire to achieve what they have not yet achieved. “I want to achieve something we have never done. It would be a lie if I said no,” said Erasmus.

Irish captain Caelan Doris acknowledges the existing rivalry and the importance of the match. “There is a great understanding of how we both want to play. We have had good results. They have also beaten us there in 2024. Yes, there is a lot at stake.” The victory at the Aviva Stadium remains the unfinished challenge for the Boks. Although Erasmus achieved a victory at the old Lansdowne Road in 1998, the new stadium represents unexplored territory. Regardless of the outcome, Erasmus’s name will inevitably be linked to the narrative of this crucial encounter.