England coach confirms he's joining Springboks

Monday, 30 March 2026 at 11:32

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byRugby Rucker

SA Rugby have strengthened the Springboks’ backroom staff with the appointment of former England, Scarlets and Ospreys analyst Joe Lewis as performance analyst.

The Welshman will link up with the squad ahead of a blockbuster international season, which begins against the Barbarians and includes the new Nations Championship as well as Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour.

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Who is Joe Lewis?

Lewis brings serious pedigree. Armed with a master’s in performance analysis from Cardiff Metropolitan University and a sports management degree from the University of South Wales, he’s built a strong reputation at the top level.

He served as England’s head analyst between 2017 and 2021, before stepping into a senior analyst role through to the end of their latest Six Nations campaign.

His CV also includes roles with Wales’ age-grade sides and Taranaki Rugby Football, where he worked as head analyst.

Rassie Erasmus reacts

Springbok boss Rassie Erasmus believes Lewis will be a key addition as the world champions gear up for another demanding cycle.

“We are delighted to welcome Joe to the Springbok team,” said Erasmus.
“Given his vast experience in technical and performance analysis at international and club level, we believe he will add great value to the squad as we prepare for a busy and exciting season, and further ahead to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.”

Erasmus also pointed to Lewis’ exposure to elite tournaments as a major plus.

“His roles have seen him gain invaluable experience at the highest level of the game – at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, in the Six Nations, and the Autumn Nations Cup. We have no doubt he’ll slot into our set-up seamlessly.”

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