Rassie Erasmus Opens Up on Springboks-All Blacks Rivalry and the Haka
- Rassie Erasmus addressed the historic Springboks vs All Blacks rivalry during his team announcement on Thursday
- The Springbok coach called on South African fans at Ellis Park to remain silent during the All Blacks' haka
- Erasmus admitted the entire Springbok squad is nervous ahead of Saturday's first Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Test
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Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has called on South African rugby supporters to observe silence during the haka when the Springboks host New Zealand in the first of four Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tests at Ellis Park on Saturday, with kick-off set for 5.10 pm.
Speaking at his team announcement on Thursday, Erasmus addressed what he described as a deeply emotional rivalry, warning that it would be "stupid" to expect the weekend's clash to resemble the Springboks' 43-10 demolition of New Zealand in Wellington last year — the All Blacks' heaviest defeat in rugby history.
The Springboks have won four of their last five meetings against New Zealand, including the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, 12-11, and have claimed back-to-back Rugby Championship titles for the first time.
Haka must be honoured, says Erasmus
Erasmus was adamant about the Springboks’ approach to the haka, particularly after some South African fans tried to drown out the traditional New Zealand challenge with “olé” chants during recent encounters.
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He said he would appeal to supporters at Ellis Park through social media and praised New Zealand-born Springboks assistant coach Tony Brown for helping the team develop a greater appreciation of the ritual.
According to Erasmus, Brown’s explanation had changed the players’ perspective, with the team now viewing the haka as an honour rather than something intimidating. He stressed that the ritual was more significant for the All Blacks and their own mindset than for the Springboks.
Erasmus also confirmed that the Springboks would not move towards the All Blacks or form a huddle during the haka, unlike some approaches used by South African teams in previous encounters. He added that the players would be free to celebrate and express themselves once the haka had ended.
Erasmus reflects on the weight of the rivalry
The coach, who earned 36 Springbok caps between 1997 and 2001, took charge several months after South Africa suffered a heavy 57-0 defeat to New Zealand in Albany in 2017. Later that same year, he guided the team to a dramatic 25-24 victory in response.
Despite the Springboks’ recent success against the All Blacks, Erasmus remains fully aware of the challenge awaiting his side on Saturday. He acknowledged that the intense pressure surrounding major matches can eventually cost coaches their jobs, but said this only makes the rivalry more special and enjoyable for him.
Erasmus admitted that the occasion remains both thrilling and nerve-racking for him personally. He revealed that he was feeling nervous ahead of the clash and noted that the tension was also evident among his players and supporters. Damian Willemse was singled out as another member of the squad feeling the pressure, although Erasmus believes the All Blacks are likely experiencing similar nerves.
New Zealand still hold the advantage in the overall head-to-head record, having won 63 of the 110 Tests played between the two nations.
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Source: Briefly News
