Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has posted a cryptic message on social media following speculation linking his assistant Tony Brown with a move to the All Blacks. The rumour mill has been in overdrive in recent days after Scott Robertson stood down as All Blacks coach two years into a four-year contract, following a scathing review that found multiple frailties within the team and reports of player unrest. Jamie Joseph has emerged as the front-runner to replace Robertson, but should he get the job, it’s likely he would want fellow former All Black Brown by his side due to their strong connection. The pair coached the Highlanders to Super Rugby glory in 2015, also coaching Japanese expansion side the Sunwolves and more recently the Japan national team at the 2023 World Cup. Brown is currently contracted to the Springboks through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, meaning New Zealand Rugby (NZR) would need to negotiate him out of a deal to get him, or wait until after the tournament in Australia.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 17, 2026 22:52 UTC