On Wednesday, several thousand passionate supporters gathered at Johannesburg’s main airport to give a rousing welcome to the victorious South African team, fresh off their triumph in the World Test Championship.
Temba Bavuma led the Proteas to a thrilling five-wicket victory against their long-standing rivals Australia at Lord’s last Saturday, marking a significant end to a 27-year wait for a major trophy.
He and coach Shukri Conrad were the first to acknowledge the roaring supporters, proudly displaying the Mace they earned for clinching the championship title.
As the players made their way off the pitch, they were seen carrying bouquets of flowers, engaging with fans by shaking hands, embracing some supporters, and signing autographs for eager admirers.
Aiden Markram, the opening batter, bounced back from a disappointing first-innings duck to score a brilliant 136 in the second innings, leading his team to a commanding victory in London with a day and a half remaining.
In a stunning display of skill and determination, paceman Kagiso Rabada claimed nine wickets in the final, solidifying his status as a pivotal player in South Africa’s historic victory. This marks their first triumph since they lifted the ICC Knockout Trophy in 1998, now known as the Champions Trophy.
On a crisp, sunny winter morning in the heart of South Africa’s commercial capital, the team was welcomed by accountant Brian Gabela and receptionist Mandy Tshabalala.
Gabela, 35, expressed his commitment, stating: “I had to be here and welcome the boys home.” Over the past two decades, they have endured a series of gut-wrenching disappointments. The title of world champion now belongs to us.
“Initially, I felt a sense of despair as we found ourselves down by 74 runs following the first innings. However, Aiden Markram’s outstanding performance in the second innings completely shifted the momentum.”
– Zimbabwe next – Tshabalala, 37, made her way to the airport alongside her son, Monthati, expressing her concerns as Australia established a significant first-innings lead.
“As a lifelong supporter of the Proteas, it’s been disheartening to witness them fall short time and again, coming tantalizingly close to securing that elusive trophy.”
“In addition to his academic commitments, my high school son dedicates numerous hours each week to staying informed about the Proteas.” His top choice in cricket is Kagiso Rabada.
The victorious squad and their coaching staff will address the media at Cricket South Africa’s Johannesburg headquarters later this Wednesday.
South Africa will take the field on June 28, when they clash with their northern rivals, Zimbabwe, in the opening match of a two-test series in Bulawayo.
Bavuma takes the helm as captain, while Markram and Rabada will sit this one out for some much-needed rest. The squad features five uncapped players, including the Titans’ dynamic duo of Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Lesego Senokwane, who are set to make their mark.
At just 19 years old, Pretorius has taken the domestic four-day competition by storm, notching up three centuries in five matches and boasting an impressive average of 72.66.
Senokwane showcased his batting prowess in the competition, amassing a remarkable total of 559 runs, which featured two impressive centuries.
Both athletes have been selected following their recent performances in their debuts for South Africa A against West Indies A.
Following the conclusion of the Test series, South Africa will play Zimbabwe and New Zealand in an exciting seven-match Twenty20 tournament in Harare.
