It seems that much of the world is lining up to support the Springboks, or at least to oppose what many, including yours truly, believe to be a somewhat unsightly form of rugby emanating from England. Naturally South Africa has its share of high-profile South African boosters, including Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki. Perhaps somewhat less expected is the passion the Boks seem to have inspired in Soweto and across parts of the country that have never been traditional rugby strongholds. Even in — gasp! — Australia, legendary rugby writer (and traditionally no fan of things green and gold) Spiro Zavos believes that South Africa must defeat the English side for the sake of rugby!
Some South Africans probably are wary of this sort of bandwagon jumping. I’d tell them to enjoy the status of being not only favorites among the punters, but favorites in the hearts of fans. This rarely happens for South African sporting tams. Bask in it while it lasts. But please, amidst the fanfare and devotion, do crush England.
