Rassie Erasmus, the South African director of rugby, has denied rumors that he will be joining the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) to replace departing overall performance director David Nucifora. Nucifora is set to leave the IRFU soon after the Planet Cup.

Erasmus categorically stated that he will not be heading to Ireland to replace Nucifora, rejecting speculation sparked by former Springbok Victor Matfield’s comments about Erasmus potentially joining Ireland soon after the Planet Cup concludes. In spite of fellow South African coach Jacques Nienaber heading to Dublin, Erasmus confirmed that he has not had any discussions with the IRFU with regards to a prospective move.

Ahead of their match against Ireland in Paris, Erasmus expressed his concentrate on the game and dismissed any notion of a move to Ireland. Each South Africa and Ireland have won their 1st two pool phase matches, with Ireland defeating Romania and Tonga, and South Africa defeating Scotland and Romania.