Boks get rousing airport farewell as daunting World Cup defence awaits

Amid much fanfare, the Springboks departed for their World Cup defence on Saturday after a rousing and entertaining send-off at the OR Tambo International Airport.

The event, hosted a on mild Saturday afternoon in front of green-clad fans, was graced by artists like PJ Powers (who delightfully belted out a rendition of the 1995 Rugby World Cup theme song World in Union), Loyiso, Lloyd Cele and Robbie Wessels, with UFC fighter Dricus du Plessis also making an appearance.

Sports, Arts, and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa also graced the event with his presence as the Boks prepared to leave South Africa for France via the United Kingdom.

RECAP | Springboks jet off for France for World Cup defence

Their two-week stay in the UK will see the Boks play against Wales in Cardiff next week Saturday and against the All Blacks in London on 25 August.

Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber said it was a privilege for them to be the defending Rugby World Cup champions, even though they'd be pressured by the expectation to return with the title.

"The main difference between the 2019 RWC and this one, is that there is a little more expectation on us now," Nienaber said.

"As a team, we've built more squad depth over the last few years, but the expectations are not a burden, it's a privilege.

"In the last few weeks, we've attended a few functions and we’ve heard all the messages from our partners, dignitaries, and the public, so we realise how much support we have. We understand the expectations and we embrace it."

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Other artists who were at the well-attended event included Mgarimbe of Sister Bettina fame, Early B, Mariechan, Dr Victor and the Rasta Rebels, and Bernice West.

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