Rassie Erasmus, head coach of the South African Springboks, has made a surprising admission regarding the team’s leadership ahead of the 2025 season. In a recent interview, Erasmus revealed that his perspective on the captaincy has evolved, crediting current captain Siya Kolisi for this shift. Initially, Erasmus viewed the captaincy as a collective responsibility, but Kolisi’s transformation into a national icon has led him to reconsider the importance of a singular leader.

Erasmus stated, “The icon and the person Siya has become in South Africa has definitely shifted my mindset on that.”

Despite Kolisi’s age—he turns 34 in June—Erasmus has expressed confidence in his continued leadership. He emphasized that as long as Kolisi remains fit, healthy, and the top player in his position, there will be no change in the captaincy. Erasmus also acknowledged other potential leaders within the squad, such as Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi, and Pieter-Steph Du Toit, but reaffirmed his trust in Kolisi for the time being.

This endorsement comes as the Springboks prepare for a challenging 2025 season, aiming for a historic third consecutive World Cup title. Erasmus’s comments underscore the significance of leadership continuity and the profound impact of Kolisi’s influence on and off the field.