Why Bok coach Rassie Erasmus loves himself a ‘Shohei Ohtani’

His value to the Los Angeles Dodgers isn’t just in his numbers; it’s in the unpredictability he injects into a game built on routine. And that’s where the parallel with Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks becomes irresistible.

- JOHN GOLIATH

Bok coach Erasmus has crafted a world champion side on the same principle that drives Ohtani’s greatness ~ versatility as a superpower.

The Springboks’ success under his watch has been built not merely on size, structure or set-piece dominance, but on adaptability. Erasmus demands players who can move between roles without losing rhythm or purpose.

Damian Willemse is the perfect example — equally at home at fullback, flyhalf or inside centre. Cheslin Kolbe can shift from wing to scrumhalf in a pinch. André Esterhuizen is becoming comfortable on the flank, while Kwagga Smith can play across the back row.