Springboks
The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, has wished the three-time world champions, the Springboks, well as they look to defend their World Cup crown in France.
“On behalf of all South Africans, I would like to wish the Bokke all the best in the World Cup. Do your best and make us proud. Bring it back Bokke!” Kodwa said at a briefing on Friday.
The 2023 Rugby World Cup begins on Friday, with the Springboks playing their first game on Sunday against Scotland. The World Cup fixtures run from Friday 8 September to Saturday 28 October.
Minister Kodwa said the Springboks represent the best of South Africa.
“They inspire national unity and foster social cohesion and national identity. This was captured by President Nelson Mandela during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, where the Springboks were a key ingredient to his message of national unity.”
“The current Springboks represent this country's diversity and represent South African excellence with their performances,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, Kodwa commended an agreement between MultiChoice and the SABC reached on Thursday which will see millions more South Africans being able to watch the World Cup.
“Yesterday’s developments, where MultiChoice agreed to sub-license broadcast rights to the SABC for the 2023 Rugby World Cup means that millions of South Africans will be able to watch this global showpiece and to see the Springboks go on to defend their world title.
“I reiterate my call for a permanent solution to be found, as we cannot find ourselves in this situation before major sporting events,” Minister Kodwa said.
(SAGovnews)
