Rassie Erasmus has always mastered mind games in rugby and the return of prodigal son Felix Jones to the Springboks set-up has only given him more ammunition.

Former Ireland fullback Jones carved out an impressive coaching CV after leaving Munster for the Springboks ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Working under Erasmus, Jones helped South Africa to World Cup glory before remaining on the ticket for when they retained the top prize in 2023.

Jones then sought pastures new with England under Steve Borthwick, although that stint failed to go to plan and he opted to leave the role just eight months in.

He spent some time in limbo before his RFU exit was marked with a succinct statement, sparking links to the vacancy at Munster which has since been filled by Chiefs boss Clayton McMillan.

Jones will instead return to the surroundings in which he forged his reputation as one of the top young coaches in the sport as they hunt a World Cup three-peat in 2027.

Boks head coach Erasmus paid homage to Jones in a statement from SA Rugby, confirming the Dubliner’s return to the setup from April 1.

The veteran Erasmus hailed Jones as a “vital cog” in their 2019 and 2023 wins, but it is other comments from him that jump from the page when you read the statement.

Speaking about the potential impact of Jones’ time studying England’s Six Nations opponents, Erasmus made an interesting suggestion.

After spending some time in England, his experience of working in the UK and studying the opposition teams in the Six Nations and other international tournaments will add immense value in assisting us to adapt and improve as we cast an eye on a tough international season ahead.”

These comments have led some fans to suggest that Jones’ stint north of the equator and subsequent return were cause for speculation.

While this is unlikely to be the case, Erasmus would likely not pass up the opportunity to make the Six Nations sides think twice.

Jones’ return has also prompted speculation that Leinster coach Jacques Nienaber, who worked under Erasmus in 2019 before becoming head coach for their 2023 Webb Ellis Cup success, could also return.

Nienaber, who joined Leinster in 2023, is currently due to finish up with the URC leaders in 2026, a year before the World Cup in Australia.