Cardiff Met alumnus Joe Lewis joins Springboks set-up

Former Cardiff Met student Joe Lewis has been appointed performance analyst for the Springboks, adding another major chapter to an impressive career at the top level of international rugby.

Lewis, who holds a master’s degree in performance analysis from Cardiff Metropolitan University, joins the South Africa management team ahead of a huge 2026 international campaign and with one eye firmly on the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The Welshman arrives in the Springboks set-up with a wealth of experience, having previously worked with England as head analyst and senior analyst, as well as holding roles with the Scarlets, Ospreys, Wales age-grade programme and Taranaki Rugby Football.

His appointment has already attracted attention across the rugby world, with South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus highlighting the value Lewis will bring to the back-to-back world champions.

“We are delighted to welcome Joe to the Springbok team,” said Erasmus.

“Given his vast experience in technical and performance analysis at international and club level, we believe he will add great value to the squad as we prepare for a busy and exciting season, and further ahead to the 2027 RWC.

“His roles have seen him gain invaluable experience at the highest level of the game, at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, in the Six Nations competition, and Autumn Nations Cup, among other big tournaments, and we have no doubt he’ll slot into our set-up seamlessly.”

Lewis’ move is another example of Cardiff Met graduates making their mark at the highest level of sport, with his academic background in performance analysis helping to build a career that has now taken him into one of the most successful international rugby environments in the game.

The Springboks begin their 2026 season against the Barbarians in June before a packed schedule that includes fixtures against England, Scotland, Wales, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, Italy, France and Ireland.

For Cardiff Met, Lewis’ latest appointment is a strong reflection of the impact of the University’s performance sport and academic pathways, with former students continuing to influence elite sport across the world.