Juandre Joubert's piece frames Jacques Nienaber's Champions Cup challenge with a sharp reminder: European club rugby owes nothing to reputation, not to Leinster's trophy cabinet and not to a coach arriving with two World Cup winners' medals. The column appears to examine what Nienaber must prove — and how — in an environment where his Springbok credentials count for little on matchday.
No entitlement in Europe — Nienaber's Champions Cup test
Joubert argues that Nienaber enters Champions Cup coaching with no credit extended for his World Cup record — European club rugby demands he earn it from scratch.
Brown confirms post-2027 All Blacks move but eyes World Cup glory with Boks first
Springbok attack coach Tony Brown will join Dave Rennie's All Blacks staff from 2028, but remains committed to helping South Africa win a third successive World Cup title before his departure.
Tony Brown to join All Blacks backroom staff in 2028 after Springbok contract ends
NZR have confirmed Tony Brown will join the All Blacks' backroom staff in 2028 on a two-year contract, with the Springboks attack coach set to depart after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. It is the third time NZR have pursued Brown, having previously been rejected during the Foster and Robertson eras.
Ntlabakanye handed 18-month ban that rules him out of 2027 Rugby World Cup
Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye has been suspended for 18 months following doping violations involving Anastrozole and DHEA, with the ban running until 13 November 2027 — the day of the Rugby World Cup final — ruling him out of the tournament.
Rassie Erasmus to receive Order of Ikhamanga — South Africa's highest national honour
Rassie Erasmus will receive the Order of Ikhamanga — South Africa's highest national honour — from President Cyril Ramaphosa at an investiture ceremony on 19 May, recognising his role in the Springboks' back-to-back World Cup titles and his contribution to national unity.
Ntlabakanye handed 18-month ban that rules him out of 2027 Rugby World Cup
Lions tighthead Asenathi Ntlabakanye has been handed an 18-month doping ban running from 13 May 2026, with the suspension ending on the day of the 2027 Rugby World Cup final after he tested positive for Anastrozole and self-declared the use of anabolic steroid DHEA.