Rassie’ Springboks chase perfect tour to shape 2027 World Cup fate

WHEN the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw takes place on 3 December, all eyes in South Africa will turn to where the Springboks end up — and who might stand in their way on the road to a record fifth title and going back-to-back-to-back under Rassie Erasmus.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

The global showpiece in Australia may still be two years away, but the next few weeks could shape the Boks’ 2027 campaign before a ball is even kicked Down Under.

World Rugby’s ranking system will determine the seeding for the draw, and with five Tests remaining this year — against Japan, France, Italy, Ireland and Wales — the Springboks’ position in the top three is far from guaranteed. Every result matters, every ranking point will carry weight, and every performance contributes to what kind of path awaits Erasmus’ team in Australia.