Swys de Bruin endorses the new Springbok coaching choices, yet highlights the calibre of local coaches like John Dobson, who could add value to the national team in future.
SA Rugby on Tuesday announced that SA’s director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has returned to the role of head coach until the end of 2027, with the inclusion of newcomers, defence coach Jerry Flannery and attack specialist Tony Brown.
Speaking to Netwerk24, De Bruin emphasises Erasmus’ proven track record with two World Cup titles while praising the likes of DHL Stormers head coach Dobson, Sharks assistant coach Joey Mongalo and overseas-based SA tacticians Johan Ackermann and Franco Smith.
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“Rassie knows what he’s doing. He proved it by winning two World Cups. He knows exactly what he is looking for,” the former Bok assistant coach, now SuperSport analyst, told Netwerk24.
“I am looking forward to how we will play attacking rugby under Tony Brown, because he is known for his running rugby.”
He added: “I have liked Dobbo since he coached the Ikeys. He understands the South African culture well and knows how to get the best out of players.
“I hope he gets his chance one day, because he deserves it. He has really left deep traces in our setup.”
De Bruin also welcomes the inclusion of former Test referee Jaco Peyper and Bok double world champion Duane Vermeulen in advisory roles to SA Rugby and the Boks, praising their potential contributions as national laws advisor and roving coach, respectively.
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