Cabinet has sent its congratulations to the record breaking Springboks team on their victory at the Rugby World Cup in Paris.
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni congratulated the Boks on their second back-to-back World Cup win during a post Cabinet media briefing on Monday.
The team clinched the Webb Ellis Cup following a tough encounter against New Zealand. The Boks are the only national team who have won the Rugby World Cup four times.
Ntshavheni paid special homage to the diverse make-up of the Springboks team that took on and conquered the world.
“In the history of rugby in South Africa, this Springboks team is the most diverse in terms of the demographic representation of South Africa. The composition of such a diverse team was not an act of coincidence, but a deliberate effort by the management and coaching staff of the Springboks to select an inclusive team.
“That bold decision by then coach Rassie Erasmus and his team continues to demonstrate to South Africans and the rest of the world, that everyone with skill, if given a chance and support, can become great – an affirmation that we are Stronger Together,” she said.
Ntshavheni said the “resilience and determination” of the Springboks throughout a challenging World Cup – in which they had to face some of the top 5 ranked teams in the world – “is an embodiment of the true essence of being a South African”.
“[It is] that which makes this great nation rise against all odds and adversities to emerge victorious. Some of the best players of this Springboks team have had to overcome personal adversities on their path to greatness.
“Cabinet expressed its congratulations to Siyamthanda “Siya” Kolisi, the Springboks double World Cup-winning captain, for leading the team to the 'Greatest of All Time (GOAT)' status and the celebrations must go on,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
