Rassie Erasmus has fired back at Matt Williams after the Australian’s latest rant about the Springboks.

Speaking on Off The Ball, the former Scotland coach described the 2021 British & Irish Lions series – which the Boks won 2-1 – as “an abomination” and claimed it featured “the worst games of international rugby” he had ever seen.

“The way that both management teams conducted themselves was disgraceful,” Williams said. “Rassie was running on the field as a water carrier. There was a leaked video criticising referees … and the style of rugby was an abomination. All they did was kick across the field and chase it. It wasn’t played in the spirit of rugby.”

Williams contrasted that series with this year’s Lions tour of Australia, where Andy Farrell’s side won the first two Tests to seal the series before losing the third.

“From the first second, Farrell and his coaching staff made the Lions play a running game. They took chances, made errors – but it was entertaining. It was fabulous to watch,” he added.

Erasmus, who has rarely shied away from social media battles, hit back on X with a pointed response.

Heal Sir Matt https://t.co/32xc5AQv7V pic.twitter.com/jlxo0wg0ix

— Johan Erasmus (@RassieRugby) August 5, 2025

Williams has frequently criticised the Springboks’ methods, particularly their Bomb Squad which he believes is “against the spirit of the game”, “discriminates against backs” and poses a safety risk.

MORE: World Rugby won’t ban Bomb Squad

Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images