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Head coach Ioan Cunningham has named the Wales Women’s senior side to face Australia in the third Test match of the inaugural WXV1 campaign at the Go Media Mount Smart Stadium, Auckland on Friday, November 3rd (KO: 7pm local time). Centre Hannah Jones will captain a Wales side with six changes to the starting line-up …
The Disciplinary process related to Ciaran Parker’s red card in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship Round 1 game against Benetton Rugby on Saturday, October 21 has resulted in an five-week suspension. After an act of foul play by Cardiff Rugby player No 18 (Ciaran Parker), referee Frank Murphy showed the Player a Red Card in …
From an interview with CJ Stander and Sean Holley ahead of Round 3 of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship: CJ Stander CJ Stander says winning over in Europe remains a big challenge for the South African sides in the Vodacom URC, but that it’s one they are happy to embrace. No team from the Rainbow …
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said the team’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories was not for the players, but for every South African as the team touched down on local soil at a packed OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday. Kolisi elaborated by saying they hoped the team inspired people from all walks of life to …
Kolisi dedicates World Cup win to all South Africans
With the melting pot of different cultures in the Springbok team, Captain Siya Kolisi has attributed winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup to the champions working together in pursuit of inspiring the nation.
Addressing a media briefing upon their arrival at OR Tambo International Airport from France, Kolisi thanked South Africans for supporting the team during the tournament and dedicated the win to people who want to achieve their dreams regardless of their circumstances.
“We wanted to make sure that this win was for the people of South Africa because of the diversity in our team. We all come from different walks of life and different races. This trophy is for people who come from tough circumstances and disadvantaged areas… who want to make something out of their lives. This is for you because we also come from those environments. We want people to get a reference point to see how they can make it from their situation. It is also for people who come from rich homes,” Kolisi said on Tuesday.
The national team was welcomed at the airport by scores of jubilant South Africans donning the Springbok colours with hopes of getting a glimpse of the world champions. This is after they triumphed over New Zealand in the final match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup tournament, beating New Zealand 12-11 on Saturday to lift the Webb Ellis Cup once more.
“As a team we had to learn [to work together]. We knew our cultures were different and that comes with differences amongst ourselves. We had a coaching staff who knew how to align us as a group; who knew how to put us together so we can focus towards a common goal, which was the Springboks and the people of South Africa.
“Our coaches taught us about taking care of each other and reminded us about our painful past, which some people have not healed from. We speak about it honestly amongst our team and talk about transformation. It is important to talk about healing from our past. We need to know the way forward; how do get better as South Africa,” he said.
Kolisi said transformation is about people changing internally; understanding each other’s cultures and taking care of each other.
“I know this win is going to inspire the country but it will not change people’s circumstances. For us as players, it will give us a platform that can open opportunities through the work that we do with our foundations,” he said.
Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa said the victory paid homage to President Nelson Mandela who had the vision that sport has the ability to unite.
“Your performance both on and off the field has represented you well as ambassadors of the country of our dreams, united as defined in the preamble of our Constitution,” he said.
South Africans will get the opportunity to see the 2023 Rugby World Cup trophy in person when the Springboks embark on a four-day tour from Thursday.
The tour has been meticulously planned to convey the team’s appreciation and proudly showcase the trophy as it embarks on another four-year journey in South Africa.
The tour will start in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Soweto – concluding at FNB Stadium – on Thursday, 2 November. It will then continue in Cape Town (Friday, 3 November) and Durban (Saturday, 4 November) before concluding in the Eastern Cape (East London) on Sunday, 5 November.
“The locations have been selected for population size in the first three instances and because of the Eastern Cape’s rugby significance in the fourth. Satellite tours to Bloemfontein, Nelson Mandela Bay and other centres will be scheduled for 2024. Such tours following the 2019 victory had to be abandoned because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The route for each tour has been prepared in consultation with the respective local authorities and the South African Police Service,” SA Rugby said on Sunday.
Route maps and timings will be published at www.springboks.rugby and on SA Rugby’s social media channels and by local authorities. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/31/2023 - 13:55
he match officials appointments of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship Round 3 fixtures have been confirmed and are available alongside TV listings below. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Glasgow Warriors v DHL Stormers Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow – KO 19.35 IRE & UK / 20.35 ITA / 21.35 SA Referee: Chris Busby (IRFU, 32nd league game) AR 1: …
Springbok supporters await arrival of their champions
Scores of jubilant South Africans donning the Springbok colours have arrived at OR Tambo International Airport to welcome the world champions back home after their victory at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The national side triumphed over New Zealand in the final match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup tournament, beating New Zealand 12-11 on Saturday to lift the Webb Ellis Cup once more.
The supporters, who have braved the cold and rainy weather to get a glimpse of the team, are in high spirits, singing and dancing. The team will address the nation at a media conference that has been scheduled upon their arrival from France on Tuesday.
Boks head coach Jacques Nienaber, Captain Siya Kolisi and other squad members are expected to attend a media briefing at 12pm.
The team arrives in South Africa on Tuesday (10:55am) and will commence a four-day trophy tour to major regional population centres from Thursday.
The tour has been meticulously planned to convey the team’s appreciation and proudly showcase the trophy as it embarks on another four-year journey in South Africa.
The tour will start in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Soweto – concluding at FNB Stadium – on Thursday, 2 November. It will then continue in Cape Town (Friday, 3 November) and Durban (Saturday, 4 November) before concluding in the Eastern Cape (East London) on Sunday, 5 November.
“The locations have been selected for population size in the first three instances and because of the Eastern Cape’s rugby significance in the fourth. Satellite tours to Bloemfontein, Nelson Mandela Bay and other centres will be scheduled for 2024. Such tours following the 2019 victory had to be abandoned because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The route for each tour has been prepared in consultation with the respective local authorities and the South African Police Service,” SA Rugby said on Sunday.
Route maps and timings will be published at www.springboks.rugby, on SA Rugby’s social media channels and by local authorities in due course. – SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 10/31/2023 - 10:09
JOHANNESBURG: Cricket South Africa (CSA) extends its gratitude to President Cyril Ramaphosa for his unwavering support for the Proteas at the...
As the 10th edition concluded in style with an historic fourth title clinched by South Africa, Rugby World Cup 2023 has set new standards on and off the pitch for the men’s showcase events leaving a bright legacy for the future tournaments. Rugby World Cup 2023 closed with South Africa lifting the Webb Ellis Cup …
Mr. Mark Alexander, President of the South African Rugby Union, passed on the Springboks’ heartfelt gratitude to all South Africans for the overwhelming support and passion showered upon the team throughout their triumphant Rugby World Cup journey. Each of the Springboks’ thrilling one-point victories in the three playoff matches resonated with millions of South Africans, …
A 29-man DHL Stormers touring squad has left Cape Town for a tough four-match Vodacom United Rugby Championship tour up north. They will face Glasgow Warriors, Benetton Treviso, Munster and Cardiff on consecutive weekends over the next month. With two bonus-point wins in South Africa under their belts against the Emirates Lions away and Scarlets …
President Ramaphosa declares 15 December a public holiday
President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared the 15th of December 2023 as a public holiday in celebration of the Springboks’ momentous achievement at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Paris, France.
On Saturday night, South Africans watched with pride and joy as the national rugby team became the world champions for the fourth time since the advent of democracy in the country.
Addressing the nation on Monday evening, the President explained that as much as many want a holiday now, most can agree that matriculants must be given time to focus on their exams, after which the celebrations will continue.
“In celebration of the Springboks’ momentous achievement and the achievements of all our other sports men and women, and as a tribute to the resolve of our united nation, I am declaring Friday the 15th of December 2023 as a public holiday.
“We declare this to be a day of hope, a day of celebration and unity. Our sports men and women have shown us what is possible. We will succeed and we will ensure that we leave no one behind,” President Ramaphosa said.
The Springboks will return home on Tuesday and the country will welcome them with great joy and jubilation. They will conduct a victory tour around the country and President Ramaphosa will receive them at the Union Buildings later this week.
The President urged the country to now rally behind the Proteas in the same way as they have given their support to the Springboks.
“I want us all to embark on a period of celebration culminating in a celebratory holiday after our matriculants have finished their exams and the Proteas have done the country proud at the Cricket World Cup,” he said.
Today marks the start of the 2023 National Senior Certificate exams for close on one million learners.
“Over the next weeks, our learners will prove the value of hard work, dedication and the investment that we have made as a nation in the education of our young people.
“We wish them the very best, confident that they will make the country proud,” President Ramaphosa said.
Stronger Together
President Ramaphosa took the opportunity to urge the nation to draw hope and encouragement from the determination and the performance the Springboks and the Proteas have displayed.
The victory by the Springboks and the performance of the Proteas follows the victory of Banyana Banyana in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and their progress to the knockout stages of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The country’s spirits were similarly lifted by the achievements of the national squad at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin in June.
“The determination and resilience of our teams have given credence to Madiba’s words that sports unites the nation. In their achievements, they have revealed much about the unity of the people of the country they represent.
“As a people, we have shown before what is possible when we are united, when we are determined, when we try hard and when we refuse to give up. Together, we overcame apartheid, ended centuries of conflict and gave birth to a thriving democracy. Together, we confronted and overcame the deadliest global pandemic in over a century. We are indeed stronger together,” he said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that the Springboks’ victory rightfully calls for a moment of national recognition and celebration.
“As we all watched their progress towards the championship, we marvelled at their resilience and determination to overcome some of the best teams in the rugby world. At moments when their cause seemed lost, they fought back and they emerged victorious,” he said.
The President further applauded the cricket team who have been performing well in the Cricket World Cup. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/30/2023 - 22:30
Springboks to embark on a four-day trophy tour
South Africans will get an opportunity see the 2023 Rugby World Cup trophy when the Springboks rugby team tour the country this week.
The world champions will embark on a four-day Trophy Tour to major regional population centres from Thursday. The team arrives back in South Africa on Tuesday (10:55am) at OR Tambo International Airport and will commence the tour 48 hours later.
This as the national side triumphed over New Zealand in the final match of the tournament, beating New Zealand 12-11 on Saturday to lift the Webb Ellis trophy.
The tour will start in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Soweto – concluding at FNB Stadium – on Thursday, 2 November. It will then continue in Cape Town (Friday, 3 November) and Durban (Saturday, 4 November) before concluding in the Eastern Cape (East London) on Sunday, 5 November.
“The locations have been selected for population size in the first three instances and because of the Eastern Cape’s rugby significance in the fourth. Satellite tours to Bloemfontein, Nelson Mandela Bay and other centres will be scheduled for 2024. Such tours following the 2019 victory had to be abandoned because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The route for each tour has been prepared in consultation with the respective local authorities and the South African Police Service,” SA Rugby said on Sunday.
Route maps and timings will be published at www.springboks.rugby, on SA Rugby’s social media channels and by local authorities in due course. –SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Mon, 10/30/2023 - 09:34
Dear Editor The Multi-Party Charter wholeheartedly congratulates the Springboks for their glorious victory in the Rugby World Cup. Through sheer courage, tenacity and teamwork, they overcame every hurdle they faced, to bring the cup home. We stand with the whole of South Africa in being immensely proud of them and overjoyed by their wonderful success. …
To highlight a few records broken, South Africa became the nation with the most title wins at the Rugby World Cup (4), they became only the second nation to ever win successive titles in RWC and they became the first nation to achieve a rare feat twice – they won the World Cup after previously …
The DHL Stormers were the only South African side to come away with a victory in the second round of the Vodacom United Rugby Championship this weekend, as the Emirates Lions, Hollywoodbets Sharks and Vodacom Bulls all came up short in the Northern Hemisphere. The Capetonians, playing on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Stellenbosch, scored …
Springboks win is a symbol of SA’s journey to nationhood
The Springboks’ nail biting victory over New Zealand carries far greater meaning and symbolism for South Africans than just a sporting achievement.
This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa through his weekly newsletter on Monday.
The President described the win as historic at the Stade de France over the weekend and a reflection of South Africa’s own democratic journey.
“When South Africa first competed in the Rugby World Cup in 1995, our democracy was just a year old. Back then, there was just one black player on the team, the legendary Chester Williams. Of the squad that played in the past weekend’s final, just short of half were black players, including the team captain, Siya Kolisi.
“The journey of the Springboks to the historic victory in the 2023 Rugby World Cup is as much about our journey towards nationhood as it is about sporting excellence. It is as much about our quest to ensure that representation in all facets of public life, including sport, stands as a potent symbol of the cherished values upon which this country was founded,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said the fervent support for the ’Boks coming from all races and cultures shows that the team – whose history has been closely linked with the brutal Apartheid government – is embraced by South Africans everywhere.
“The fervent, colourful and touching displays of national pride from South Africans both at home and abroad during this tournament, show that perhaps as never before, the Springboks have well and truly been embraced by all races as their own.
“The viral clip of Springboks winger Makazole Mapimpi being cheered on by customers and store staff whilst out grocery shopping, and that of Eben ‘Elizabedi’ Etzebeth and RG Snyman dancing with South African fans near the Eiffel Tower in Paris are among my personal favourites.
“Witnessing so many South Africans don the national team’s colours and profess their support online and on other platforms speaks to the deep love for our country and to our ability to pull together even when the going gets tough,” he said.
The President reflected that South Africa’s “nationhood” has grown despite obstacles and uncertainty.
“At times such as this, when our country faces many problems that at times cause our spirits to flag, we are reminded that our South Africanness, our sense of community and belonging, and our very nationhood did not evolve overnight.
“It has taken considerable time to forge, and at times faced obstacles that threw us into uncertainty and doubt. But if the story of the transformation of South African rugby, a sport that was once the bastion of racial supremacy, is anything to go by - our country will continue to reap the benefits of change if we remain united and if we stay the course,” the President said.
He acknowledged that the country faces problems that “cannot be forgotten or wished away by a fleeting moment such as a sporting victory” but highlighted that the victory has united the country.
“It is our hope that it must also serve to inspire the younger generation to derive important life lessons about perseverance, teamwork, discipline and leadership. The interview that Siya Kolisi gave shortly after the team’s win on Saturday will be remembered as one of the most poignant and meaningful from a sports person in our country.
“He spoke about the different backgrounds of the team members and the difficulties they have had to overcome to reach this pinnacle of sporting achievement. You have to be South African to see, feel and experience the things we do,” he said.
“This Springbok squad is one of the best rugby teams in the history of the sport. But they are far more than that. They are also great ambassadors for our country and for the values that continue to drive our efforts to build a united, more equal and prosperous nation,” the President concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 10/30/2023 - 10:42
Parliament heaps praise on the Springboks
Parliament has sent a congratulatory message to the Springboks for their record setting win against New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final.
The ’Boks triumphed over the All Blacks by one point in the final held at the Stade de France on Saturday evening.
The team has now won four world cups in a historic achievement.
“Clinching the Webb Ellis trophy for an unmatched fourth time, the Springboks have not only displayed supreme athleticism but also the spirit of unity, impeccable team-work and perseverance that defines our nation,” Parliament said in a statement.
The Springboks’ hard fought journey to the final – and eventually clinching the Webb Ellis trophy – included tough matches against five of the top 10 teams in the world.
“In this high-stakes competition, our team demonstrated exceptional resilience, unwavering spirit, and an unparalleled warrior mentality. Against all odds, they proved to be the epitome of excellence, discipline, determination, teamwork and a passion.
In its statement on Sunday, Parliament said the achievement exemplifies the transformative power of sport in South Africa.
“It's not just about the game; it's about its ability to unite our diverse nation, reinvigorate hope, and showcasing the strength that comes from our rich diversity. The Springboks' victory embodies the spirit of South Africa: a nation defined by resilience, unity, and a passion for pushing boundaries,” the statement read.
Parliament described the victory as a testament to the “strength of our people” which evokes memories from Springboks’ first world cup trophy lift in 1995.
“Fast forward 28 years, and the indomitable spirit of the Springboks remains as resilient and unmatched as ever. From the powerful cry of 'One Team, One Country' in 1995 to the equally resonant 'Stronger Together' today, their legacy is a testament to the strength of our people, the catalytic force of sport and the undying spirit of a nation that has weathered countless storms but remains steadfast in its pursuit of unity and greatness,” Parliament said.
The legislative body congratulated South Africans for propelling the team to “the pinnacle of world rugby with unwavering support”.
“The Springboks’ relentless spirit and dedication have illuminated the hearts of millions, reaffirming the greatness of South Africa and reminding the world of the extraordinary nation we are. Our hearts overflow with pride.
“Special commendations to team captain, Siya Kolisi, whose exemplary leadership combined with the collective efforts of the profoundly talented team, coaching staff, and the SARU leadership and all role players, culminated in a victory that resonates deeply not only in South Africa but across the African continent,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 10/30/2023 - 10:10
FNB, the proud sponsor of the Springboks, congratulates the team and coaching staff on their record 4th Rugby World Cup title. The Springboks’ success is more than just a sporting victory; it is a triumph of the human spirit. Their devotion to inspiring hope for our proud rainbow nation resonates deeply with us at FNB. …
New Zealand number eight Ardie Savea was crowned World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in partnership with Mastercard, receiving the prestigious accolade at a star-studded World Rugby Awards 2023 ceremony on Sunday. Just hours after South Africa defeated Savea’s All Blacks to lift the Webb Ellis Cup for an historic fourth time at …
With bold ambitions, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 has officially become the current Rugby World Cup host and is already cementing its status as an event of firsts. The first Rugby World Cup under the new hosting model, the first women’s edition to feature multiple venues the length and breadth of the host nation and …
President Ramaphosa lauds Springboks' historic World Cup victory
President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended the Springboks after their historic 2023 Rugby World Cup victory at the Stade de France on Saturday night.
The Springboks claimed their Rugby World Cup victory over New Zealand, making South Africa the first country to win the championship four times.
The President offered his congratulations to the team, as well as coaching team, the broader squad and the team management, and technical and support staff.
“Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country and continent, and the world. Sport has the power to transform individuals’ lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.
“Tonight [Saturday], Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our flag even higher,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa also commended New Zealand for a hard-fought World Cup campaign that made the All Blacks deserving finalists.
Meanwhile, the President will on Monday address the nation on Monday at 8pm. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Sun, 10/29/2023 - 11:02
Dear Editor The Democratic Alliance (DA) joins the rest of South Africa in extending our joyful congratulations to the Springboks for winning the 2023 rugby World Cup for a record fourth time. Captain Siya Kolisi and his band of Champions have once again inspired a nation through this remarkable achievement and lifted the spirit of …
The world champion Springbok rugby team will embark on a four-day Trophy Tour to major regional population centres from Thursday, SA Rugby announced on Sunday. The team will attend the gala World Rugby Awards ceremony in Paris on Sunday night before leaving France for South Africa on Monday morning. The Boks arrive back in South …