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'Don't be a parasite' warns Erasmus in his latest Twitter message

(Photo by Clement Mahoudeau/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus has posted his latest tweet, defending his use of social media in recent days to highlight his rugby observations and calling on his critics not to be a parasite. The South African rugby director stirred up controversy over the weekend in the wake of his team’s latest tour loss, the 30-26 defeat to France in Marseille.

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Erasmus posted a series of six video clips highlighting how he felt his team had suffered an alleged injustice in the French loss that came seven days after they had been beaten by Ireland in Dublin.

His latest criticisms, though, appear to have reached a tipping point, causing a huge divide on Twitter between people vehemently supporting what he has done and those who feel he has taken things too far on this occasion.

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Erasmus has now written a 55-word message advising what those people who disagree with him can do. “Guys, please free to block or mute me. It’s really not a problem and better for our health,” he began.

“Sorry if any of the tweets were offending you!! Also, if you don’t agree with my tweets please ignore them and don’t use for clickbait, man. Use your own tweets and stuff. Don’t be a parasite. Lekka.”

The end-of-year four-game Springboks European tour – which next features a match versus Italy – is Erasmus’ first matchday involvement with the South African national team since his ban last November following the infamous 62-minute video filmed after their first Test of the Lions series in July 2021 criticising the match officials.

His latest video series began with a sarcastic message about fixing fundamental errors like tackle technique and simple passing. He then reflected on the Deon Fourie yellow card before commenting on the actions of Gael Fickou, footage of the respective No9s under pressure, and also “optical illusion” passes.

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An earlier text message had explained what he was up to with his video series and what he was looking to achieve. “Just working through the game and all the lessons we can take from it… and see some learnings that can educate us and shows the opposite please share with us! Will keep them coming so our South Africans understand where we are at!!”

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1 Comment
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CT 740 days ago

You tell them Rassie what a boykie 😉

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TI 1 hour ago
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Rieko took literally years to turn from a defensive liability at 13 into a guy, who’s defensively sound as it befits the position. And it all came at the cost of him being much less of an offensive threat, than what he used to be. Proctor is a natural 13, he handles, passes, and kicks way better than Rieko ever will, he just isn’t as fast.


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Two things I hate in rugby union beyond description: aping after league, and playing players outside of their natural position. Especially considering, that they all admit they hate it, when they’re allowed to speak freely. Owen Farrell spent 80% of his international career at 12, saying every time when asked, that he is a 10 and prefers to play at 10. Those players are literally held at a gunpoint: play out of position, or no national jersey for you.

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Hellhound 2 hours ago
What has happened to Aphelele Fassi?

Willie will always be the most missed player for me once he retires. He wasn't interested in scoring tries. The ultimate team player. Has the most assists in tries in the Bok team, and his kicks always spot on, at least 95% of the time. He reads the game like no other player can. He wasn't flashy, and people didn't notice him because of that. Great rugby head and knowledge. He should be catapulted into an assistant coach in the rugby system. He should really consider coaching.


Damian Willemse is an excellent fullback and he is the number 1 fullback. He can play the entire backline positions, except maybe 9, but I'm sure he would be able too if he wanted. No one is taking that away from him, only stand in while he is injured. He is world class and you don't swap that out. He also got wicked dancing feet, great eye for openings, and reads a game like few can, like Willie Le Roux. Also very strong on his feet, with absolute great hands and his kicking game is just as good.


As for Aphelele Fassi. What a great find and he has exceptional talent that Rassie will mould into a world class player. Yet.... He is nowhere even close to Damien Willemse. He has a long way to go to get there, but he is surrounded by great team mates from who he will gain lots of advice and support. He can play wing and fullback and Rassie may just try him out as a flyhalf or centre too. He has the abilities to expand his game. He is for sure a future star, but not yet at the stage to take away Damien Willemse's spot. However, DW start and AF on the bench, that is an awesome replacement. Between the 2 they cover all positions in the backline once AF gets that training. The Boks could go 6/2 permanently if they wanted. 6 forwards, a scrumhalf and AF. I may be wrong, but Rassie will spread AF around.

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