Last chance to get a glimpse of Boks
Springbok supporters will have their last chance to say goodbye to the 31-man Springbok squad on Friday at a public farewell in Johannesburg.
Saru president Oregan Hoskins has urged all South Africans to give the team their unqualified support and turn out in force in their Springbok jerseys at Monte Casino from 2pm on Friday afternoon.
The team’s South African preparations will culminate in a special event in the Piazza with entertainment from top SA music acts as part of a spectacular “goodbye” being televised live by SuperSport.
The Minister for Sport and Recreation South Africa, Fikile Mbalula, will close the occasion by wishing the team well.
Coach Heyneke Meyer, captain Jean de Villiers and his 30 teammates and Springbok management will spend an hour and a half making their farewells before walking through the crowd as they head straight to OR Tambo International Airport to catch an overnight flight to London.
Friday’s farewell from the Piazza at Montecasino will feature all 31 players appearing on stage for a final team photograph.
One lucky fan will receive a Springbok jersey signed by the team on the evening from captain Jean de Villiers.
The event is expected to recapture the mood of the team’s farewell four years ago when fans packed Sandton Square and lined the team’s walk to the Gautrain station.
Gates to the public viewing area at the piazza will open at 1.30pm with the entertainment scheduled to start at 2pm.
The Springbok team will arrive at 3.30pm and depart at 5pm with the crowd “walk through”.
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.
The occasion is free and open to members of the public.
Jacasport