- Tony Brown believes South Africa’s success starts with more than the senior Springboks’ performances
- The attack coach explains why he accepted Rassie Erasmus’ offer despite interest from Argentina
- His role with the Boks comes with a personal challenge that keeps him connected to life in New Zealand
Source: Getty Images
South Africa’s ability to develop young players has impressed Springbok attack coach Tony Brown, who believes the country is getting the key ingredients for rugby success right under Rassie Erasmus.
Brown shared his assessment during an interview with former Sharks coach John Plumtree on the Plumtree Uncut podcast. The discussion, published on 19 October 2026, covered the Springboks’ development system, Brown’s decision to join the coaching staff and the demands of working far from home.
The former All Blacks flyhalf pointed to South Africa’s success at under-20 level as an important part of the bigger picture.
“With how Rassie’s developed this rugby team, that’s exceptional, and then all the young guys coming through and how South Africa have got that right,” Brown said, according to SA Rugby Magazine.
“They’re winning all those U20s tournaments now, so they’ve got everything right in South Africa at the moment.”
Why Tony Brown chose Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks
Brown’s move to South Africa followed Erasmus's approach after the 2023 Rugby World Cup. However, the lack of communication in the months that followed left him wondering whether the opportunity had disappeared.
“I didn’t hear from him for a couple of months,” Brown said. “So I thought, ‘Oh, maybe that opportunity’s gone.’”
Argentina coach Felipe Contepomi also wanted to secure his services. When Erasmus eventually returned with a firm offer, Brown did not hesitate.
“He said, ‘Right, we’re keen to sign you if you want to sign.’ And I just said, ‘Yes, I’ll sign straight away,’” he recalled.
Brown said he was pleased with his decision, describing South Africa as a special place to work because of its deep-rooted rugby culture.
He also explained his approach to coaching a national team outside his own country.
“If I go into a team, I just commit 100%, because if I don’t, the players will feel that,” he said.
Springboks coach opens up about family life in New Zealand
That commitment requires Brown to spend considerable time away from his family in Dunedin. One daughter is at university, while the other attends high school.
Although they sometimes travel to watch him coach, most of their lives remain centred in New Zealand.
“It’s obviously a little bit difficult when you’re always away from your family,” Brown said.
He added that they attend some matches and World Cups, while he travels between South Africa and New Zealand when possible.
“I come and go a bit, but we make it work,” Brown said.
His comments offer a glimpse into the personal arrangements behind his Springboks role, alongside his confidence in the structures supporting South African rugby.
Source: Getty Images
Tony Brown's attacking philosophy driving Springboks' evolution
Briefly News also reported that Tony Brown outlined the three principles shaping his attacking philosophy with the Springboks.
The former All Blacks flyhalf explained how his approach adapts to the strengths and weaknesses of the players at his disposal. Brown identified momentum, speed and space as crucial elements of a dominant team.
Source: Briefly News
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