Rassie hits back at World Rugby in 'lekka' tweet

REACTION: The fiery battle between South Africa's Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus and World Rugby has been reignited, following the new trial law.

World Rugby revealed on Tuesday that the council adopted a new trial law – effective from July 1 – which will limit the opportunities for non-playing personnel to access the pitch.

According to the governing the new regulation aims to improve the flow of matches by reducing unnecessary stoppages without compromising welfare.

World Rugby also added that the two dedicated water carriers “cannot be a Director of Rugby or Head Coach”.

Erasmus was heavily criticised when he acted as a water carrier during the Springboks’ Test series against the British and Irish Lions last year and again during some of their recent Nations Series matches.

Most of the scrutiny came from the Northern Hemisphere, suggesting that he was acting as an on-field coach.

Despite the outcry, Erasmus and the Springboks were following the law which, at the time, stipulated that only the head coach was prevented from being on the field.

However, World Rugby has reviewed the law and has announced that the law will expand the wording to include both coach and Director of Rugby positions – effectively putting an end to Erasmus coming onto the field of play.

In true Erasmus fashion, the Director of Rugby took to social media and tweeted: "Was just talking to my line manager yesterday!! She also thought 'Director of Rugby' has such a formal ring to it!

"We agreed that Director of coaching will be so much better title for me! Lekka (nice) !! Can't wait."

Erasmus is currently suspended from all match-day activities until October, following his controversial video on referee Nic Berry’s officiating during the B&I Lions series.