President Cyril Ramaphosa has lauded the national rugby and cricket teams for their impressive victories over England in their respective World Cup matches.
The Springboks edged out England 16-15 in a thrilling Rugby World Cup semi-final on Saturday night, securing their place in the final. The Proteas, meanwhile, thrashed England by 229 runs in their Cricket World Cup group match on the same day.
In a statement, President Ramaphosa expressed his immense pride in the national teams’ achievements.
Warm congratulations to the Proteas on their record win over England in the ICC World Cup tournament yesterday. The nation wish you further victories on your way to the final. Between the #Proteas and the #Springboks, our national teams are inspiring people all over the world and… pic.twitter.com/urUNjqj0Kz
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 22, 2023
“Our national teams are inspiring people all over the world and making all of us deeply proud,” he said.
The President congratulated the Springboks on their hard-fought victory, which he described as a testament to their resilience and determination.
“Now our nation can focus our hearts and flags on our second successive Rugby World Cup Final in as many tournaments. We are indeed stronger – and victorious – together,” he said.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa also joined in congratulating the Springboks on their victory.
Congratulations to our heroic Springboks on a hard-won Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final at Stade de France, Paris. Now our nation can focus our hearts and flags on our second successive Rugby World Cup Final in as many tournaments. We are indeed stronger – and victorious –… pic.twitter.com/HfsksZJMpt
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 21, 2023
“What a win by the Bokke! The Bokke have shown why they are the reigning World Cup champions. Bring on the finals,” he said.
South Africans united in voice, standing strong together. Make us proud @Springboks. The nation is behind you! @SportArtsCultur @SiyaKolisi @BraaiArmy @JoyChauke5 @GovernmentZA @EbenEtzebeth @RassieRugby @jacnienaber #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/OTpjuNxbTx
— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) October 21, 2023
The Proteas were also praised for their dominant performance against England.
“Warm congratulations to the Proteas on their record win over England in the ICC World Cup tournament. The nation wishes you further victories on your way to the final,” President Ramaphosa said.
Minister Kodwa echoed the President’s sentiments, commending the Proteas for their inspiring display.
“What a fantastic victory! Congratulations on a mighty performance. You have inspired South Africans all over with your big win,” he said.
The victories by the Springboks and Proteas have sparked a wave of national pride in South Africa. The two teams are now poised to make a strong challenge for glory in their respective World Cups.
