Springboks coach

Rassie Erasmus has chemo for life-threatening condition during Springboks' World Cup triumph

In early 2019, Erasmus was diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis with granulomatosis and underwent chemotherapy before and during the World Cup. 

Erasmus' doctor Johan Theron told Afrikaans publication Rapport that the side effects made the coach weaker, but was essential as the disease was potentially fatal. 

"He really doubted at one stage whether he would be able to push through with his position as Springbok coach," Theron said.

His chemotherapy doses were lowered so that he could give his full attention to the Springboks during the World Cup. 

Coetzee feeling undermined as Boks coach

After only 11 victories in 25 Tests during two years guiding the Springboks, there has been media speculation that the 54-year-old faced the sack.  

But the former inter-provincial scrum-half says his efforts to build a team capable of winning the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan are being severely hampered by some officials.

Coetzee believes that if he does not quit, he risks being reduced to a "ceremonial coach" reporting to recently appointed national director of rugby Johan "Rassie" Erasmus.