Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has paid tribute to Japan coach Eddie Jones ahead of their upcoming clash, recalling how opponents have often caught the Boks by surprise.
Reflecting on past matches, including a tense encounter in Brighton ten years ago and Japan’s near-upset of Australia in Tokyo last week, Erasmus singled out Jones as a respected strategist and peer.
“Eddie speaks his mind, and I admire that,” Erasmus said. “When I was banned, he was one of the first to call and offer support. I have a lot of respect for him. We even have a bottle of South Africa’s finest wine waiting, but it only gets handed over if we win, so if he wants it, he’ll have to let us win.”
The friendly banter highlights the mutual respect between the two coaches as the Springboks prepare for what promises to be a competitive match.
–ChannelAfrica–
