Though he’s not everyone’s cup of tea, Rassie Erasmus is a good fit to take over as Ireland’s new director of rugby, writes RORY KEANE.
Rumours that the IRFU were targeting Erasmus to replace outgoing performance director David Nucifora were given legs this week.
During an episode of the Rugby Pod, former Springbok captain Victor Matfield said that the chance of Erasmus leaving South Africa to go to Ireland was “90-95%”, especially as Jacques Nienaber will take up a role with Leinster after the World Cup.
MATFIELD: Rassie ‘95%’ off to Ireland
Writing for the Irish Daily Mail, Keane provided an Irish outlook on Erasmus potentially taking up one of the most influential roles in Ireland’s rugby structure.
“Erasmus can be a divisive figure,” Keane wrote. “There are still plenty of people in Munster who still feel a bit lukewarm about the South African following his premature exit from the province. You can’t argue about his record, however.
“In terms of a CV, Erasmus fits the bill. Indeed, he could well be the figure who derails Ireland’s World Cup campaign next weekend. That Pool B encounter in Paris is looming large now.
“It would be fitting if Erasmus returned to Ireland and oversaw the restructure of a system which would finally allow the national team to go deep into the World Cup knockout stages.
“Again, we’re dealing with hypotheticals here. But the case for Erasmus as the next IRFU performance director is compelling. It certainly wouldn’t be dull.”
Photo: @Springboks/Twitter
