Erasmus clarifies Etzebeth's confusing double exit in Springboks' 42-38 loss to Australia

Rassie Erasmus has moved to explain the bewildering sequence involving Eben Etzebeth during South Africa’s 42-38 defeat to Australia at Optus Stadium on Sunday, a loss that handed Les Kiss’ Wallabies the Mandela Challenge Plate and extended their unbeaten run in 2026.

Etzebeth left the field in the second half after what appeared to be a blow to the neck around the 64-minute mark, only to return three minutes later before departing again as the Springboks chased a winning score in a frantic finish. The double exit left coaches, officials, and supporters uncertain about the nature of the injury and whether a head injury assessment (HIA) protocol had been triggered.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Erasmus acknowledged the confusion stemmed from a miscommunication between the coaching staff and the medical team. “He had a shot against the neck and I thought he was going for HIA. We don’t control that from a coach’s box, what he’s going for,” Erasmus said. “When the doctor told me he got a knock against the neck, I thought he was going for HIA, and I think that’s where the confusion is.”

The distinction mattered in practical terms. Because Etzebeth was logged as injured rather than undergoing an HIA, the Springboks were unable to bring on a replacement while he was temporarily off the field — a rule that applies differently under HIA protocols. Erasmus acknowledged the episode highlighted a need for clearer communication across all parties. “There’s also a learning there for the match officials, the fourth and fifth official, and for us, to understand.”

On a more positive note, Erasmus confirmed the veteran lock had avoided serious harm. “He pulled through. He’s a bit stiff and sore in the change room now, but luckily I don’t think there’s big damage.”

The defeat itself was a dramatic affair, with Australia at one point reduced to 11 players yet still managing to hold on for a four-try victory. The Springboks will need to regroup quickly, with the Rugby World Cup on the horizon and questions now lingering over both their defensive discipline and their sideline procedures.