Rassie Erasmus is reportedly on a star-studded shortlist of coaches that have been targeted to take over from Steve Borthwick at Leicester Tigers.
Leicester are currently looking for Borthwick’s long-term successor after losing both him and interim head coach Richard Wigglesworth to the England setup.
According to a report by the Telegraph, the Premiership defending champions are looking to land a “big fish” as their new head coach and have placed Erasmus’ name on a shortlist filled with distinguished coaches.
As well as the Springboks director of rugby, the shortlist also includes Argentina’s Michael Cheika, Ulster’s Dan McFarland and Wallabies assistant coach Dan McKellar.
At this stage, it appears unlikely that Erasmus would leave the Springboks. His lawyer Frikkie Erasmus confirmed to Rapport that the former Bok loose forward’s current deal with SA Rugby runs until 2025, although revealed an exit clause.
MORE: Rassie may stay on beyond 2023
However, according to the Telegraph, Leicester may have enough money to pay out a contract, and would give their new head coach the freedom to assemble his own backroom team.
“That [replacement] process has been ongoing for a number of months, from which we narrowed down to a shortlist and are nearing the end of the interview process with those candidates,” Leicester CEO Andrea Pinchen said. “We will be taking the time we feel necessary to get the best possible people in to lead Leicester Tigers from next season into the future.”
Photo: Twitter: @Springboks