By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Springboks took their national Webb Ellis Cup tour to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, while Cape Town was a hive of activity as the World Champions graced the streets with their presence.
The parade started in Umhlanga and travelled towards Durban North, before heading to the city centre.
The four-time world champions were in Cape Town on Friday where they have been receiving another rapturous welcome from the crowds on their second leg of the trophy tour.
The victory tour is a gesture of appreciation for the millions of South Africans, who unwaveringly supported the team throughout the Rugby World Cup tournament.
The Springboks were received by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda and the MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, in true Durban style.
“The Springboks have made us a proud nation in the tables of the nations of the world. They have won more than the Webb Ellis Cup but have granted South Africa the rare gift to press the reset button and refocus all of us on what matters the most – that of being proud, patriotic and united South Africans,” said Premier Dube-Ncube.
Durban has come out in numbers?? #SpringboksRWC #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/TrVsFvA2og
— KZN Provincial Gov (@kzngov) November 4, 2023
The @Springboks are on fire ??
Durban is on fire ??#SpringboksRWC #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/e87XtnuATp
— KZN Provincial Gov (@kzngov) November 4, 2023
In light of the festivities, the residents and motorists were urged to exercise patience, as temporary road closures will be in effect from 8:30am to 2pm along the parade route.
Another day of amazing support – thank you Durbs! ??#Springboks #StrongerTogether
? Gallo Images pic.twitter.com/nNohTa6yTS— Springboks (@Springboks) November 4, 2023
Some Durban Springbok fans were disappointed that the team’s captain Siya Kolisi was not part of the Durban tour.
“We wish you were here,” said one supporter, with another echoing the same sentiments: “I hope you really enjoy the wedding, but I really wish that you were here with us.”
Kolisi couldn’t make it due to personal commitments.
However, the captain’s absence did not dampen the mood as celebrations continued.
The Rugby World Cup Champions will head to East London and will touch down at the King Phalo Airport on Sunday.
Buffalo City Metro spokesperson, Samkelo Ngwenya, said their Safety and Security cluster had convened several meetings to manage critical issues related to safety and security during the tour.
He said the first travel point will be in Quigney, Moore Street starting at 10h00 where the leadership of the Country, Province, and Metro will welcome the team.
Watch Live in the video below:
Video Courtesy of SABC.