Success on the international rugby stage often comes with a fair share of criticism, and no one knows that better than Rassie Erasmus and his Springbok squad.
Being at the top means being a target—and South Africa’s rugby giants are no strangers to having their every move picked apart.
But this time, things have gotten a little more personal, and a lot more bizarre.
When Winning Breeds Critics
The Springboks, known for their physical dominance and smart strategies, have long faced pushback from critics who don’t always agree with their methods.
It’s a classic case of “tall poppy syndrome”—when people take aim at those who rise above the rest.
And one voice that just won’t let up is former Scotland coach Matt Williams.
Williams has taken particular issue with South Africa’s infamous “bomb squad” tactic, where they stack the bench with six or seven forwards to unleash fresh muscle in the second half.
While the strategy has proven effective, not everyone is a fan.
The Steven Kitshoff Controversy
In his latest outburst, Williams crossed a line by linking the devastating neck injury of Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff to the team’s substitution strategy.
His argument? That the physical demands created by bringing fresh forwards into the game could be harming players’ bodies—specifically their spines and brains.
He even questioned whether Kitshoff’s injury, which happened while the player was away from the national squad, could be a result of the kind of scrummaging he’s been subjected to during his Springbok career.
“What’s it doing to the guys’ spines when it’s being compacted unbelievably for 80 minutes?” Williams asked, before raising a speculative link to Kitshoff’s situation: “Do we know if that is as a result of the scrummaging they are put through?”
Rassie Erasmus Fires Back Online
It didn’t take long for Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus to clap back.
Taking to social media, he posted a screenshot of Williams’ comments and made his stance crystal clear.
“Nee wat!!” Erasmus wrote—Afrikaans for “No, what!”—before adding, “How can a 6/2 or 7/1 split contribute to Kitchie’s injury? ‘Do we know?’ No you don’t.”
It was a direct and passionate response from a coach who’s not afraid to defend his players and call out what he sees as baseless criticism.
Rugby Fans React and Ticket Info Reminder
Fans are already chiming in on the debate, with many rallying behind Rassie and the team.
And while we’re talking Springboks, here’s something important for supporters: tickets are now on sale for their Rugby Championship clash with Argentina at Twickenham this October.
Where to Get Your Tickets
You can grab your seats through Ticketmaster and England Rugby, with prices starting at just £55 for adults and £28 for under-16s.
For those looking for a premium experience, hospitality packages are also available at Allianz Stadium Twickenham. (*Booking fees apply)