Boks blocks Rassie Erasmus social media question at press conference | Sport

In London

Springbok media manager Zeena Isaacs-van Tonder blocked an English journalist on Tuesday from asking Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber about SA Rugby director Rassie Erasmus.

The brief but sharp conversation between Isaacs-Van Tonder and the journalist took place during the Boks team announcement press conference at the Lensbury Resort on Tuesday, where Nienaber had initially and confidently answered previous questions about Erasmus’ involvement with the team and how they handled it .

Erasmus, who coached the Boks to the 2019 Rugby World Cup title before rising to the position of director of rugby in 2020, was suspended by World Rugby last Thursday for tweeting about leading inconsistencies in the losses against Ireland and France earlier this month.

Isaacs-Van Tonder had already mentioned during the press briefing that it was not about Erasmus, but about the team announcement.

“Do you support your rugby director by posting videos on social media to help people understand what’s going on? Do you support him in that?” was the question.

“Jacques, don’t answer that. This is not a Rassie press conference,” Isaacs-Van Tonder replied.

Kick-off for Saturday’s test is at 7:30 PM (SA time).

We live in a world where fact and fiction are intertwined

In times of uncertainty, you need journalism you can rely on. For 14 free days you have access to a world of in-depth analysis, investigative journalism, top opinions and numerous features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today. After that you pay € 75 per month. You can cancel at any time and if you cancel within 14 days you will not be charged.