Rassie focuses on World Cup prep as Boks plan 2026 balance

SPRINGBOK coach Rassie Erasmus says his biggest challenge in 2026 will be getting the balance right between maintaining winning momentum and ensuring his top players are relatively fresh for the 2027 World Cup.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

The Bok boss hinted that he is prepared to make a few sacrifices next year in terms of the relentless need to win every game, so that the Boks are in the best possible condition for the World Cup.

Erasmus used boxing parlance to describe the challenge that 2026 presents. He said the team may need to take a few uppercuts, so that some players do not end the year punch-drunk. It will be fascinating to see how Erasmus tackles a year in which the Boks contest the inaugural Nations Cup, with games against England, Scotland, and Wales preceding the much-hyped Greatest Rivalry tour by the All Blacks, which includes four Test matches. The Boks conclude a tough 2026 with November matches against Italy, Ireland, and France.