BAD WEATHER NO MATCH FOR ZWIDE RUGBY FANS

BY SIMTHEMBILE MGIDI

Dedicated Bok fans in Zwide braved the inclement weather at the weekend to back their “boytjie” on the streets the Springbok captain once called home.

Spirits were high before the defending champions’ clash against the Irish on Saturday, with everyone from taxi drivers to children cheering and hoping to make it three from three at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

The #CadburyFanClub which was meant to be hosted at the Zwide Stadium had to be moved to the Njoli taxi rank in Zwide for safety reasons arising from the bad weather.

And while SA narrowly lost the nail-biting encounter 8-13, the Zwide fans remain steadfast in their support of the team and their aspirations to retain to the title.

Avid Springbok supporter Ntando Ndiki, 38, said despite the loss he believed the rain was a good omen for the Boks and their journey to the Webb Ellis Cup.

“We came to see Kolisi, he is from Zwide.

“Rain in the Xhosa culture is blessings. If you have a traditional ceremony and it rains, we believe you have got all your blessings.

“Now for it to rain in Siya’s hometown and he is the captain, it is clear that he is blessed.

“He must go, make history as the first black captain to defend their title as world champions and bring the cup back to Gqeberha,” Ndiki said. 

Andile Ximiya, 47, said while former president Nelson Mandela had died before seeing Kolisi’s rise, he believed “Madiba magic” was with the Bok captain.

“I am happy with our team. [Rassie] Erasmus was able to make the team represent all South Africans.

“You find even people who are not interested in rugby wanting to watch the game because they see their representation.

“Even if children do not have rugby boots, they see Siya and believe they can be a Springbok.

“This match does not decide who will win the final,” Ximiya said.

One of the event organisers and AMK junior account manager Noluthando Buthelezi, 32, said the #CadburyFanClub was a means of getting locals to rally behind the Boks during their world cup campaign.

She said she was humbled by the warm reception from Zwide residents at the weekend.

“We could have easily said it’s raining and the activation is off, but if we can give [the community] a chance to watch all their heroes then let’s do that.

“It is inspiring and emotional