Clive Woodward agrees with Rassie Erasmus’ observation that English clubs employing foreign players benefits South African rugby while hindering English talent development.
Writing for the UK’s Daily Mail, Woodward reflects on Springbok coach Erasmus’ 2022 comments about England’s rugby system. The former England boss argues that current English Qualified Player (EQP) rules requiring 15 English players in 23-man match-day squads (65%) are insufficient.
Woodward advocates increasing this to 18 (78%), highlighting how many non-English players in the Premiership aren’t of elite calibre and block young English talent’s progress. He points to the opening weekend where both Sale and Harlequins started SA-born locks, questioning whether Englishmen were overlooked.
He contrasts this with South Africa’s system, where top players compete globally while domestic teams develop local talent. He notes how only two players from England’s victorious U20 World Cup squad featured in the Premiership’s opening round, emphasising the need for better pathways for emerging English talent.
“I don’t agree with everything Rassie Erasmus says or does. Far from it, in fact,” Woodward writes.
“But I have to say South African rugby owes him a huge amount because of his desire to do what’s best for his nation. There is no doubt Erasmus hit the nail on the head in 2022 when speaking to the Mail on Sunday.
“He said: ‘People say the English system is the envy of the world because it has all the resources. I disagree. People say South Africa are stupid for allowing our players to leave.
“‘Is it stupid? Look at England, there are six or seven South African players taking the places of young English players at Premiership clubs. For us, it’s wonderful. Is it good for England? No.’
“Absolutely spot on.”
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