South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for a potentially life-threatening illness before and during their march to the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Reports in South Africa on Sunday claim the former Munster supremo was diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis with granulomatosis - a rare autoimmune disease - in early 2019.
Though it's not cancerous, Erasmus underwent chemotherapy before and during the Rugby World Cup after suffering a rare strain of the disease which according to his doctor, Johan Theron, was potentially fatal.
Media outlet Rapport say Erasmus only found out in March that treatment for the disease which impacts on the lungs, kidneys, sinuses and trachea, was successful.
A South Africa Rugby Union spokesperson told Sport24: "Rassie was treated for a serious condition in 2019, from which he has recovered.
"He thanks people for their concern but wishes to keep the matter private."
The report goes on to say during the World Cup Erasmus' chemotherapy doses were lowered so that he could give his full attention to the Springboks.
"He really doubted at one stage whether he would be able to push through with his position as Springbok coach," Theron said.
The Springboks knocked hosts Japan out of the World Cup at the quarter-final stage before emerging 19-16 winners in a nerve-jangling clash with Wales in the last four.
The final against Eddie Jones' England was far more comfortable with the 'Boks lifting their third Webb Ellis Trophy in an emphatic 32-12 scoreline at the Yokohama Stadium.
After the World Cup, Erasmus stood down as head coach and moved into his role as director of rugby on a full-time basis, handing the coaching reins to Jacques Nienaber.
