Comments made by former French player Victor Matfield last week stated that he was 95% sure Erasmus would take up a similar position in Ireland once the Rugby World Cup had finished.
"It sounds like Rassie is going; he might stay for a few months just to get a few things in place. But knowing Rassie and knowing Jacques [Nienaber], those two do everything together, so I think the chance of him going to Ireland must be 90-95%," said Matfield.
Speculation is rife that Erasmus is coming in to replace current Irish Director of Rugby David Nucifora at the IRFU. However, the former Munster head coach has ended speculation around a move back to Ireland
“No, no," said Erasmus.
“There have been no talks; there is no truth in that.
“I’m not sure where it started, but I have not chatted to them. I’m definitely not following Jacques.”
Rassie Erasmus on if he will be heading to Ireland: "No, I won't be.
"There have been no talks and there is no truth in that. I am not sure where it started but definitely not. I haven't chatted to them and I am definitely not following Jacques [Nienaber]."#RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/B0iCmGBPGz
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) September 18, 2023
The world champions face their toughest test of the tournament this coming Saturday in Paris when they face the number one-ranked side in the world, Ireland. The Boks Director of Rugby knows that they have to step up a level if they are to compete with Ireland in Paris on Saturday.
"We are playing the number one team in the world, and if you don’t defend well, they are a well-coached side... For us, it will be important to be on par in every department, setpiece-wise and in our own attack."
Another aspect of stopping Ireland will be nullifying Johnny Sexton at out-half. Sexton became Ireland's all-time points scorer in Nantes on Saturday and is in fine form ahead of the clash.
When asked what makes him so special, the former Munster coach highlighted his 'aura and his presence' as being key components of making him one of the best.
“He’s a hell of a vital person, in my opinion,” added Erasmus. “When I was at Munster, I only beat him once; I think it was the December game at Thomond. Whenever Johnny’s in the team, a lot of things happen, and not just as a player.
“It’s his aura and his presence. For a man at 38 to still score tries like he scored this weekend [against Tonga] and the previous time we played them, he grubbered through and out-sprinted one of our guys, so as long as he’s physically out there, which he is, there’s no doubt about him. “The aura about him is exceptional, not just for his own team but very intimidating for the opposition.”
