The Irish Times: Rassie Erasmus Declines Offer from IRFU After Rugby World Cup

Rassie Erasmus, the South African director of rugby, has denied rumors that he will be joining the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) to replace departing performance director David Nucifora. Nucifora is set to leave the IRFU after the World Cup.

Erasmus categorically stated that he will not be heading to Ireland to replace Nucifora, rejecting speculation sparked by former Springbok Victor Matfield’s comments about Erasmus potentially joining Ireland after the World Cup concludes. Despite fellow South African coach Jacques Nienaber heading to Dublin, Erasmus confirmed that he has not had any discussions with the IRFU regarding a potential move.

Ahead of their match against Ireland in Paris, Erasmus expressed his focus on the game and dismissed any notion of a move to Ireland. Both South Africa and Ireland have won their first two pool phase matches, with Ireland defeating Romania and Tonga, and South Africa defeating Scotland and Romania.