Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Siya Kolisi won’t be around forever.
Springboks supporters have grown accustomed to Rassie Erasmus at the helm. Moreover, Siya Kolisi has steered the ship for years and is a household name in SA Rugby and World Rugby.
However, despite being involved in two Rugby World Cup wins, a British & Irish Lions victory and two Rugby Championship triumphs – both icons of Bok rugby will eventually be replaced. So, let’s take a look at the men next in line.
FUTURE SPRINGBOK CAPTAINS
Springbok veterens, Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi and Handre Pollard have all played the role of vice-captain in recent seasons.
Meaning, all three players are strong candidates to take over from Kolisi. Meanwhile, the current Bok squad boasts an a abundance of potential leaders including the likes of Pieter-Steph du Toit and Lukhanyo Am have also worn the captains armband recently.
So, Bongi and Etzebeth are the favourites to take over from Kolisi. This, in the event that the Springboks skipper is unavailable and possibly long-term. At 33, Kolisi still has a few solid years left in the tank. Therefore, he will lead the Boks up until the 2027 Rugby World Cup, at the very least.
NEXT IN LINE TO RASSIE GREEN AND GOLD THROWN
Rest assured Bok fans, Rassie will not be going anywhere any time soon.
Furthermore, Erasmus will be in charge of the Springboks for several more years. In fact, Rassie’s contract runs until 2027.
Meaning, mission three-peat will be lead and orchestrated with the legendary Rassie at the helm. However, he won’t be coach of the Boks forever. So, who is next in line?
Internally, Mzwandile Stick and Deon Davids are well positioned to take over having been in the Springbok set up for many years. Meanwhile, abroad Franco Smith and Johann van Graan have strong cases. Smith lead the Glasgow Warriors to the 2023/24 URC title with his influence, innovative and expansive style of play causing headache for opposition defenses.
WHO SHOULD BE THE NEXT SPRINGBOKS CAPTAIN? WHO SHOULD BE THE NEXT BOK COACH AFTER RASSIE ERASMUS?
Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news and views.
Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/springboks-new-coach-and-captain-candidates/
