Elated rugby fans in Gqeberha were devasted to hear that the hometown of Springbok Captain Siya Kolisi was not to be included on the four-day victory tour by the 2023 Rugby World Cup champions.
Assistant Coach Mzwandile Stick also hails from the region as does the former award-winning Bok Coach Rassie Erasmus.
In a statement released by SA Rugby, its President Mark Alexander thanked the “entire South African rugby community’ and “expressed profound gratitude and humility" for the immense support the team has received.
With regards to the trophy tour Alexander “highlighted that the tour’s purpose was to reach as many people as possible within the limited timeframe before the squad disperses”.
This means that the five largest population centers in the country—Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Soweto, and Pretoria—have been given priority to provide the maximum number of people with the opportunity to celebrate with the team.
The statement added that “the significance of the Eastern Cape in the history, development, and future of black rugby was acknowledged, leading to a visit to Buffalo City on a non-working day to enable individuals from the region to be part of the celebration.”
It was further stated with regards to Buffalo City being given preference over Nelson Mandela Bay that another “significant Springbok event” is planned for NMB in 2024.
The Trophy Tour kicks off this Thursday the 2nd of November in Johannesburg, Soweto, and Pretoria. More details will be issued on SA Rugby’s digital channels in due time.
