Conrad and Bavuma rebuilt the Proteas’ fighting spirit

Test victory in Pakistan and a first red-ball win on Indian soil in 15 years.

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Conrad's plans since taking over the red-ball team a couple of years ago have mirrored Rassie Erasmus at the start of his tenure as Springboks coach. And now the performances and results are mirroring those of the world champion Boks too.

Erasmus started by identifying individuals with a certain character who could fit into the way he wanted his team to play. He then went about building enough depth and having uncomfortable but honest conversations around picking certain teams for certain conditions and opposition.

Seven years on, Erasmus has won back-to-back Rugby World Cups and the Springboks are in rude health.