Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus may be an ace up the Proteas’ sleeve as they gear up for the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June.
The man who turned the Springboks into two-time world champions could provide pivotal insights to the Proteas as they face Australia in the ultimate Test showdown.
Proteas Test coach Shukri Conrad revealed to Rapport the blossoming relationship he has forged with Erasmus since January.
“Rassie hopes that he can be at Lord’s for the final,” Conrad said, highlighting the rugby coach’s enthusiasm for the cricket clash.
Their bond began during the Proteas’ Test against Pakistan at Newlands, where Erasmus sought out Conrad at the team hotel.
“We talked for hours that day,” said Conrad. “We discussed many things, including how we can help each other. We exchanged ideas and have stayed in touch since. We still share ideas without going overboard.”
Even if Erasmus can’t attend the final in person – due to the Springboks assembling in early June – his influence could still shape the Proteas’ approach. The exchange of ideas between the two coaches has been ongoing, with Erasmus offering a fresh perspective on high-stakes preparation.
The Proteas are leaving no stone unturned for Lord’s. Conrad outlined their preparations, including a training camp in either Arundel or Beckenham in early June, following their departure to England on 30 May.
A possible warm-up match against Zimbabwe is also under consideration, with clarity expected soon.
“Zimbabwe are keen to play us, and we hope to have clarity on this within days,” said Conrad, who remains unfazed by the short preparation window. “It’s not ideal, but Australia are in the same boat because many of their players are in the IPL, like ours.”
He emphasised mental resilience as key, referencing the Proteas’ gritty two-wicket win over Pakistan in Centurion last December, where Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada’s 51-run stand got their team over the line.
“That victory has made us mentally tougher for the final.”
With Erasmus’ strategic input and Conrad’s focused leadership, the Proteas are poised to challenge the favoured Australians.
“We’re not going to the final for fun. We want to win the whole thing,” Conrad declared.
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
