Erasmus clears air on Jaco Taute deal

Rassie Erasmus yesterday insisted a six month extension of Jaco Taute’s contract has still not been agreed between Munster, the IRFU and Western Province. The deal must be struck by midnight on Saturday, but it looks a near certainty to be completed.

Erasmus is delighted at the likely outcome given Darren Sweetnam is set to be sidelined for at least three weeks following the knee injury when late tackled by Zane Kirchner in Monday’s win over Leinster, and there is also a doubt concerning an elbow knock sustained by Andrew Conway. “We will probably have some clarity about Darren on Monday or Tuesday”, said Erasmus. “I’m not sure how long it will be but it will be a while although I don’t think it’s a horrible injury. He’ll handle it. He’s a tough guy and will come back better. He’s been unbelievable, I think he featured in every game and every training session. As for the challenge that caused the injury, I’d rather leave it, it makes no difference now”.

Erasmus also stated he would say so if the Taute situation had been confirmed and wouldn’t be drawn into some newspaper suggestions “rules were being bent” to accommodate the three-times capped Springbok.