In a fiery exchange clearing the air, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus laid to rest rumors of personal discord with dynamo back-rower Evan Roos. Despite Roos' limited playtime this year, Erasmus envisions a robust future for him with the national team, eyeing a comeback by 2027. This comes amidst a backdrop of injury and suspension woes within the team that oddly didn’t favor Roos’ selection.
Roos, a standout performer for the Stormers, found himself on the sidelines for the major international fixtures of the year. His exclusion was notable especially after Jasper Wiese's suspension and injuries to key players like Jean-Luc du Preez. Rassie Erasmus, however, insists the decision is purely tactical. “I saw the things that people wrote, but if you speak to Evan, he will tell you there is no personal issue,” Erasmus clarified earlier this year, after bringing Roos into contention due to another player's injury.
“My friend is a world-class player and will play many test matches for the Boks, we just have two really good eights in Jasper and Kwagga and in my opinion, they are still delivering at a higher level than Evan!! So who to drop?”
Despite Roos' exemplary form, including consecutive Man of the Match titles in the URC, Erasmus placed him only on the standby list for upcoming November internationals. This strategic call did not dampen Erasmus’ belief in Roos’ prowess and potential to reclaim his spot. He expressed firm confidence in Roos' capabilities, projecting his strong return to the Springboks squad in the near future.
The debate took a public turn when a supporter questioned Erasmus on social media about Roos’ omission, suggesting a mishap in selection preferences. Erasmus responded diplomatically, acknowledging the differing opinions: “Obviously, we are not always right, and I hear and understand what you say!! Thanks for the way you discuss these things! I appreciate it! Ras”
Erasmus’s comments reflect his openness to criticism, emphasizing that such interactions are a testament to the passion of the Springboks’ fanbase. He continues to navigate the complexities of team selection, affirming his commitment to fielding the best squad while fostering emerging talent like Roos.
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In a fiery exchange clearing the air, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus laid to rest rumors of personal discord with dynamo back-rower Evan Roos. Despite Roos' limited playtime this year, Erasmus envisions a robust future for him with the national team, eyeing a comeback by 2027. This comes amidst a backdrop of injury and suspension woes within the team that oddly didn’t favor Roos’ selection.
Roos, a standout performer for the Stormers, found himself on the sidelines for the major international fixtures of the year. His exclusion was notable especially after Jasper Wiese's suspension and injuries to key players like Jean-Luc du Preez. Rassie Erasmus, however, insists the decision is purely tactical. “I saw the things that people wrote, but if you speak to Evan, he will tell you there is no personal issue,” Erasmus clarified earlier this year, after bringing Roos into contention due to another player's injury.
“My friend is a world-class player and will play many test matches for the Boks, we just have two really good eights in Jasper and Kwagga and in my opinion, they are still delivering at a higher level than Evan!! So who to drop?”
Despite Roos' exemplary form, including consecutive Man of the Match titles in the URC, Erasmus placed him only on the standby list for upcoming November internationals. This strategic call did not dampen Erasmus’ belief in Roos’ prowess and potential to reclaim his spot. He expressed firm confidence in Roos' capabilities, projecting his strong return to the Springboks squad in the near future.
The debate took a public turn when a supporter questioned Erasmus on social media about Roos’ omission, suggesting a mishap in selection preferences. Erasmus responded diplomatically, acknowledging the differing opinions: “Obviously, we are not always right, and I hear and understand what you say!! Thanks for the way you discuss these things! I appreciate it! Ras”
Erasmus’s comments reflect his openness to criticism, emphasizing that such interactions are a testament to the passion of the Springboks’ fanbase. He continues to navigate the complexities of team selection, affirming his commitment to fielding the best squad while fostering emerging talent like Roos.