Former South African rugby player and current director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus, is currently recuperating in hospital from chemical burns sustained in what has been described as a “freak accident.” The 51-year-old suffered the burns to his hands while using a potent detergent product.
A statement released by SA Rugby confirmed that Erasmus had undergone a medical procedure for the burns and is anticipated to resume his professional duties within a few weeks. The statement also reassured that despite the incident, Erasmus is otherwise in good health.
Erasmus is a highly esteemed figure in South Africa, renowned for leading the national team to victory in the Rugby World Cup. His illustrious playing career saw him earn 36 caps for his country as a flanker, and he also represented South Africa in the 1999 showpiece. Transitioning to coaching, Erasmus worked with Free State Cheetahs and Western Province before serving as an adviser to the South Africa national team.
Following a successful tenure as the director of rugby at Irish side Munster, Erasmus assumed the role of head coach for South Africa in 2018. Under his stewardship, the Springboks emerged triumphant in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, prevailing over England in the final.
Since then, Erasmus has reinstated his position as the director of rugby for SA Rugby, a position he continues to hold today. His influence and expertise have been integral in shaping the success of South African rugby on both the national and international stages.
The news of Erasmus’ hospitalization has come as a shock to fans and the rugby community, with an outpouring of support and well-wishes for his swift recovery. Despite this setback, there is optimism surrounding his return to full-time duties in the coming weeks.
As an iconic figure in the world of rugby, Erasmus’ impact has been profound, and his ongoing contributions to the sport are widely respected. The rugby community eagerly anticipates his recuperation, hoping to witness his return to the field and his continued inspiration of future generations of players and fans.