BREAKING: Rassie Erasmus in the running for Leicester Tigers job

Erasmus has a noteworthy history in international rugby, having guided the Springboks to victory at the 2019 World Cup and overseeing their 2-1 series victory against the British and Irish Lions in 2021.

He joins a list of four other high-profile individuals who are being considered to replace Steve Borthwick at the Tigers.

Borthwick has helped to compile a shortlist of potential permanent replacements, and Chief Executive Andrea Pinchen stated, "Who better to ask than Steve Borthwick? I am not the rugby brain of this organization, but I've got this rugby brain like Steve, so why wouldn't I try to make the most of that.

"I asked if he would be willing, not to choose his successor, but to be part of a process where I could put names in front of him to get his opinion on their coaching ability and references if he has worked with them before.

"It was really key for me to make sure that I got as much information as I can. He was extremely helpful and said yes immediately. He wants to leave Leicester in a good position."

Pinchen added: ‘That final decision has not yet been made. We’ve spoken to a number of people. We’re still in motion with our plan. I’m not putting a time-frame on it because what I need to make sure we get it right.

The Telegraph reports that the narrowing shortlist features current Argentina boss Cheika prominently.

Sources have told Sportsmail that Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend is set to take charge after the World Cup. 

He took on the position of Scotland Head Coach in the summer of 2017 after five seasons at the helm of Glasgow Warriors.

The Gala man made an immediate impact at the Scotstoun club, leading the side into the Play-Offs in his first season (2012/13) before reaching the PRO12 Final in 2014, ultimately losing to Leinster.

In 2015, however, Townsend led Glasgow to title success, defeating Munster 31-13 to lift the Guinness PRO12 trophy, before enjoying another first in his final year, when the club reached the knockout rounds of the European Champions Cup for the first time.

Townsend was named Guinness PRO12 Coach of the Year twice during his time in the west of the Scotland, a club he joined from his position as Assistant Coach to the Andy Robinson with the naitonal team (2009-2012).

Following his shock departure from Fiji last week, 'stern Vern' has been linked with the vacant Tigers job by The Telegraph

The 61-year-old New Zealander, appointed in January 2020, has left for personal reasons.

"I'm disappointed to be leaving at this time," said Cotter, who led Scotland to the World Cup quarter-finals in 2015.

"The team has made some significant improvements over the last few years both on and off the field."

Cotter is the fourth international head coach to leave his role in the past two months, following the departures of Wayne Pivac (Wales), Eddie Jones (England) and Dave Rennie (Australia).

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the players and coaches I have worked with during my time with the team," said Cotter.

"I believe we built a great culture which was testament to some good people working hard and enjoying each other's company.

"I wish the team all the very best for the upcoming Rugby World Cup later this year."

The current Ulster boss played loosehead prop for Richmond, Stade Français and Connacht, retiring in 2006.

He was forwards coach, then assistant coach for Connacht from 2007 to 2015, head coach of Emerging Ireland in 2014 and Ireland Wolfhounds in 2015, assistant coach of Glasgow Warriors from 2015 to 2017, and assistant coach of Scotland from 2017 to 2018.