For Ubuntu Spirit as Greatest Rivalry heads to America
CCN Sport Reporter – George April
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander has penned an open letter thanking South Africans for their passionate support during the inaugural Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series on home soil.
Picture: Mark Alexander pictured with Springboks players at an official event.
In the letter, Alexander hailed the country’s embrace of the historic tour, which saw the Springboks and All Blacks contest three Tests in South Africa amid a wave of global interest.
“My fellow South Africans,
As we conclude the inaugural edition of the Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry on home soil, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to every South African who supported this world-class series. Over these past weeks, we once again demonstrated the true spirit of our nation. With guests travelling from all corners of the world to experience this historic event, you showed them the warmth, generosity and unity that define us as a people.
Your embrace of our visitors reflected the essence of Ubuntu, ‘I am because we are’. You reminded the world that South Africa is strongest when we stand together. The economic impact of this series will benefit communities across our country, contributing to livelihoods and strengthening the broader national economy. We listened carefully to your comments and recommendations on how we can improve future events. We value your voice, and we will implement these insights.
Our players draw immense strength from your unwavering support. Your passion, your presence and your belief in them fuel their performance. Thank you, South Africa, for once again showing the world who we are, united, resilient and guided by the spirit of Ubuntu.” – Mark Alexander, SA Rugby President
The Springboks head into the series-deciding fourth Test with a 2-1 lead after a hard-fought victory in Johannesburg. The final clash of the tour takes place this Saturday, 12 September, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, the first Springboks versus All Blacks Test ever played on American soil.
Kick-off is at 23:00 SAST. The match marks only the third Springboks appearance in the United States this century and forms part of broader efforts to grow the game ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup in the USA. Thousands of South African supporters living in America are expected to turn the NFL venue into a sea of green and gold.
Attention now turns fully to Baltimore, where the Boks will look to close out the series in style against their greatest rivals.
