In a world where coaches rarely admit their mistakes, Rassie Erasmus has once again reminded us why he’s a different breed altogether. In a candid press conference ahead of South Africa’s second Test against Italy, the Bok boss took a moment to reflect not just on the upcoming clash — but on a career milestone that deserves applause.
Willie le Roux, the ever-mercurial fullback, is set to become a centurion — playing his 100th Test in the green and gold jersey. And while the milestone alone is a reason to celebrate, the story behind it is laced with lessons, emotion, and one very rare admission:
“I definitely made a mistake.”
Rassie Erasmus
A Missed Opportunity, a Massive Turnaround
Erasmus, who was Director of Rugby at Western Province when Le Roux was trying to crack the Stormers squad, spoke openly about how he misread the player — and perhaps more importantly, the person.
“Willie is an interesting character,” Erasmus said with a wry smile. “When I didn’t know him well at the Stormers, I basically said he couldn’t make the squad. That’s on me.”
It’s not often a national coach goes back into the archives of selection calls and publicly holds up their hand. But Erasmus’ tone wasn’t defensive. It was reflective. “Because his emotional involvement in the game is visible. He’s a guy who shows how he feels.”
At a time when fans dissect every grimace and gesture on the field, Erasmus offered a powerful reminder: not all reactions mean what we think they do.
“I remember chatting to a coach overseas where Willie was playing. I didn’t understand some of his actions. And the coach said, ‘He doesn’t hide his emotions because he cares that much.’ That stuck with me.”
The Long Road from Boland to Bok Centurion
Le Roux’s rugby journey is as unorthodox as his playing style — which, for the record, is exactly what makes him both loved and loathed in equal measure among Springbok supporters. He’s played for the Boland Cavaliers, Griquas, and Cheetahs, before making his Test debut against — fittingly — Italy, back in 2013.
Now, 11 years later, the 35-year-old stands on the brink of a century.
“Two World Cups, a stint at Wasps, big games for the Boks… he’s been around the block,” said Erasmus. “We’re proud of him, and we want to help make it a memorable game.”
Divided Opinions, Undeniable Impact
Let’s be honest — Willie le Roux hasn’t always been a fan favourite. His risk-taking has led to moments of brilliance and a few hair-pulling blunders. But through it all, he’s remained an integral cog in the Springbok machine.
There’s something to be said for a player who can divide opinion but still command respect within the squad. “You can ask anyone in the team,” Erasmus said. “The way Willie looks sometimes [on the field] when he’s down — it’s not a reflection on his team. It’s because he cares so deeply.”
It’s easy to forget that elite athletes carry their emotions differently. Some wear poker faces. Others, like Le Roux, show every ounce of heart on their sleeve.
The Bigger Picture
This moment isn’t just about Le Roux reaching 100 caps. It’s about growth — both for the player and the coach. It’s about recognising the human stories that sit behind team sheets and stat lines.
And for Erasmus to step up and say, “I got it wrong,” is not just a show of humility — it’s a nod to the ethos that has defined his second stint as Bok head coach: honesty, adaptability, and heart.
As South Africa lines up for a potentially historic win over Italy, one man will be carrying more than just the weight of the game on his shoulders. Willie le Roux will be carrying 100 caps’ worth of belief, doubt, lessons, and love — and a coach who’s proud to have been proven wrong.
