The Springboks are currently enjoying one of the most dominant eras in world rugby under head coach Rassie Erasmus and captain Siya Kolisi.
With Erasmus under contract through to the 2031 Rugby World Cup and Kolisi primed to lead the nation into Australia in 2027, immediate panic is unnecessary. However, leadership succession planning remains a hallmark of SA Rugby’s long-term structure.
Here is a breakdown of the leading candidates positioned to inherit the head coaching mantle and test captaincy in the years ahead.
The Top 3 Coaching Candidates
1. Mzwandile Stick
The long-serving assistant coach stands as the clear frontrunner. Having served alongside Erasmus throughout back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles, consecutive Rugby Championship crowns, and the 2021 British & Irish Lions series victory, Stick possesses an unmatched understanding of the squad’s culture and operational systems.
2. Deon Davids
A central figure in the current coaching setup, Davids brings a crucial point of difference: senior head coaching experience from his tenure leading the Southern Kings. His combination of technical expertise and top-level management makes him a prime continuity pick.
3. Franco Smith
Offering a fresh perspective outside the current national bubble, Smith has established himself as one of the game’s elite tactical minds. After guiding Glasgow Warriors to the 2023/24 United Rugby Championship (URC) title, his proven ability to build high-performance systems makes him a compelling external candidate.
The Top 3 Captaincy Candidates
1. Jesse Kriel
The 32-year-old midfielder has steadily emerged as the primary successor. Kriel has repeatedly stepped into the vice-captaincy role and assumed the captain’s armband, leading South Africa in tests against Italy, Australia, and New Zealand. His professional standards and elite physical condition make him the natural favourite.
2. Malcolm Marx
With nearly 90 test caps and a World Rugby Player of the Year award to his name, Marx is one of the first names on every Springbok team sheet. The explosive hooker leads by physical example and commands total respect across the squad.
3. Pieter-Steph du Toit
The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year serves as the team’s emotional engine room. Having frequently stepped in to captain the side during Kolisi’s absence, his work ethic sets the international standard, though his age makes him a shorter-term leadership bridge.
SPRINGBOK SUCCESSION AT A GLANCE
Coaching Candidates: Captaincy Candidates:
• Mzwandile Stick (Fav) • Jesse Kriel (Fav)
• Deon Davids • Malcolm Marx
• Franco Smith • Pieter-Steph du Toit
