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Rassie Erasmus, the outspoken South African coach, has once again added entertainment to top-level rugby, calling the Irish fans ‘a bit windgat (show-off)’ ahead of the upcoming test series between the two countries.

Also read: Rassie to let go of SA Rugby reins

Erasmus, known for his polarising yet fascinating attitude, has revived the Springbok-Irish rivalry ahead of their first encounter of the first match.

In a recent video posted on social media, Erasmus expressed his thoughts on Ireland and their supporters. While seeking to minimise the rivalry, he emphasised the seeming arrogance of Irish fans in response to the team’s recent success.

‘Contrary to what most people think, I can say nothing bad about the Irish. The media likes to hype it up a lot,’ Erasmus reminisced about his great experiences in Ireland.

Erasmus did, however, also note that when their side does well, Irish supporters often become ‘a bit full of yourselves’ and ‘a bit windgat (show-off)’.

He explained this by pointing out that Ireland has a tiny population and few professional rugby players, which makes their accomplishments on the international front all the more impressive.

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‘I just think sometimes, and I’m going to say it as it is, people are a bit jealous that a country like them with only four or five million people is no. 1 or 2 in the world. They only have 160 professional rugby players,’ he added.

Erasmus upheld the enthusiasm and pride Irish fans had in their team, despite his remarks against their alleged haughtiness. ‘It’s not something in the Irish culture that is frowned upon. It’s passion, it’s we love our team. Listen, if you’re going to come our way, we are going to give you some stick.’

The South African coach, who acknowledged Irish fans’ want to compete and think of themselves as among the top teams in the world, asked people not to be too harsh on them.

Although South Africa has often criticised about Irish haughtiness, sometimes with good reason, it seems Erasmus inflated the problem to create a distraction before the matches.

Erasmus will probably apply this siege mindset once more during the test series against Ireland, as he has done so well in the past.

Unquestionably, Erasmus’ remarks have heightened the rivalry between Ireland and South Africa, which was already intense. Fans should expect a very intense series both on and off the pitch as the two clubs prepare for their next meetings.

His words may be seen as an attempt to incite the opposition, but they also highlight the pride and passion that drives both sports teams and their supporters.

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Picture: Michael Bradley / AFP

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