SPRINGBOK supporters will have a last chance, on Friday, to say goodbye to the Springbok squad at their public farewell in Johannesburg.
South African Rugby Union (Saru) president, Oregan Hoskins, has urged all South Africans to give the team their unqualified support and turn out in their Springbok jerseys at Montecasino from 14:00 on Friday, September 11.
The team’s preparations will culminate in this spectacular send-off in the Piazza with entertainment from top SA music acts, including Lloyd Cele, PJ Powers and HHP. The send-off will be televised live on SuperSport.
The Minister for Sport and Recreation, Fikile Mbalula, will close the occasion by wishing the team well.
Coach Heyneke Meyer, captain Jean de Villiers, his 30 team mates and the Springbok management will spend an hour and a half making their farewells and will appear on stage for a final team photograph before walking through the crowd as they head straight to the OR Tambo International Airport to catch an overnight flight to London.
On the evening De Villiers will hand one lucky fan a Springbok jersey, signed by the entire team.
The farewell is expected to recapture the atmosphere of the team’s send-off four years ago when fans packed Nelson Mandela Square and lined the team’s walk to the Gautrain station.
Gates to the public viewing area at the Piazza will open at 13:30 with the entertainment scheduled to start at 14:00.
The Springbok team will arrive at 15:30 and depart at 17:00.
Members of the public are urged to arrive early to secure their place as the standing area is limited. An overflow area with a giant screen will also be available.
