South Africans are gearing up to watch the much anticipated battle between the Springboks and New Zealand’s All Blacks in the final of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, taking place in France.

South Africans are backing the Springboks. wishing them success.

President Cyril Ramaphosa and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa, will lead a strong contingent of South African fans joining the team in Paris.

Democratic Alliance (DA) Shadow Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Tsepo Mhlongo said despite a challenging tournament and attempts to derail the team’s focus, the Boks have shown “true South African spirit”, overcome adversity and are “on the cusp of making history”.

“Your journey has already made us proud,” Mhlongo said.

He noted that Springboks Coach Jacques Nienaber and South Africa Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus will be fielding the “most experienced team ever” to go up against New Zealand, and said the hope of an entire nation rests upon them.

“May your show of strength, unity, and resilience continue to inspire South Africans and the world. South Africa unites behind the Boks and we will ensure they feel the roar of every cheer tomorrow night! Bring it home, boys! Go, Bokke!” he said.

Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said Ramaphosa is looking to be invited onto the pitch a second time by Springboks Captain Siya Kolisi to help lift the Cup.

“This will be the first time any country will hold four Rugby World Cup titles,” Magwenya pointed out.

Ramaphosa wished the Springboks and the All Blacks well for this showcase which he hopes will be memorable for the in-stadium audience and the global media audience.

Portfolio Committee on Sports, Arts and Culture chairperson Beauty Dlulane said all 60-million South Africans have been behind the Springboks since day one of the World Cup in France.

“The Springboks have given themselves a realistic opportunity to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Given the recent success of the team, this was hardly surprising, and as the committee we appreciate the unifying effect such success has had in the country,” Dlulane stated.

She highlighted that this is further proof that success not only unites but a lot more has been achieved.

“[They have achieved] recognition in the rugby world and beyond; what the Springboks have done is also to etch South Africa’s name in the annals of history. All that is left is to win the title for the record fourth time,” she urged.

Dlulane noted that the Springboks had a crucifying passage that involved Scotland, Ireland, and the massive fight of having to eliminate the hosts France in the quarterfinals, as well as the “spirited England team” in the semi-finals.

Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Anroux Marais has extended her best wishes to the Springbok rugby team.

"You have done us proud with your exceptional team spirit, and your never-say-die attitude, You have shown us that South Africa can be the best in the world when we all work together. All of the very best against New Zealand,” said Marais.