South Africa’s record fourth World Cup title was a seminal moment for the game in the country and highlighted the huge strides forward rugby has made in igniting a passion for the game among supporters of all races.
In a country struggling with an electricity crisis, economic downturn, high unemployment, crime and corruption, the Springboks’ 12-11 World Cup final win over New Zealand provided a rare chance to celebrate.
But the win goes far beyond sporting excellence and those who spearheaded it hope it can be a blueprint for success in all walks of South African life.
The sight of thousands of adoring supporters lining the streets to see the team on their trophy tour in Soweto, South Africa’s largest township, was particularly striking given how rugby was once perceived to be the sport of the white Afrikaner during apartheid.
Those scenes were replicated across the country and showcase not only the love and admiration supporters have for the
