Former Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has hit back at claims that the reigning World Cup champions are not worthy. This comes after a statement that was made by an article through Rugby Pass, alleging that the current Springboks side is not the best.

Erasmus wrote on Twitter: “A lion doesn’t concern himself with the opinion of a sheep.” With the Boks set to return to action since winning the global showpiece in Japan back in 2019, they are will face Georgia in July this year.

Penned by Ben Smith (not the former All Blacks fullback of the same name), Erasmus has also attracted some views based on his tweet.

It is reported that some will believe the veteran manager should have responded to the article directly and not just use a social media application. In November 2018, Erasmus similarly made public his opinion when he felt the Boks had been wronged after they had controversially lost 12-11 to England at Twickenham. Moreover, it is reported that Smith’s piece is unfairly critical of the South African national pride.

The writer also suggested that the Boks were less than courageous by not participating in last year’s Rugby Championship that was held in a bio bubble in Australia and featured the Wallabies, All Blacks and the Pumas.

News reported that the Rugby World Cup will be taking place in France in 2023, where the Springboks will defend their title as Rugby World Cup champions and try and make history by winning the competition for the fourth time.

The opening match will feature two rugby giants, France and New Zealand in Paris at the Stade de France stadium. The schedule looks good for the Springboks who will be taking on Scotland in their first match. South Africa will play in Pool B along with Ireland, Scotland, Asia/Pacific 1, and Europe 2.