Kurt-lee Arendse and Cheslin Kolbe. Picture: Instagram
South Africa’s national rugby team, the Springboks has officially reached their first anniversary since winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Paris, France.
Last year’s spectacle was dubbed as one of the most magical victories for the men in green and gold – this, after they found themselves thrown into what was known as the pool of death after having to face many of the world’s toughest rugby nations which included, Scotland, Ireland, Romania, and Tonga.
As the competition neared its end, they successfully managed to scrape past all their opponents including the mighty All Blacks by winning their matches with a single point.
In the process, they made history, by becoming the first rugby team to win four Rugby World Cups.
Celebrating the milestone members of the team as well as their wives to Instagram to share memories of their unforgettable day.
For Springbok wing Cheslin Kolbe, the moment was even sweeter as he lifted the trophy on the same day he celebrated his 30th birthday.
“Can’t believe this was a year ago. Best birthday present. Thank you for all the birthday wishes! Much appreciated,” he wrote.
Another Springbok to reflect on the moment was Jesse Kriel. The outside centre fell short of winning a World Cup in 2015 after the Boks were knocked out of the semi-finals by New Zealand, while he won a World Cup in 2019, he unfortunately only played in the opening game and was ruled out because of Injury.
For him, 2023 was a standout year, during which he proved his value and experience to the team by sticking it out to the end.
Sharing pictures of his highlights, he wrote: “A year ago today, South Africa made history! Thank you to everyone who believed in us.”
Joining the players were some of the wives, many of whom posted on their stories Aimee Kitshoff, wife to the front row prop Steven also shared some memorable pictures of her own.
The team is currently in Jersey where they are gearing up for their end-of-year international tour against Wales, England, and Scotland in November.
Also see: 5 Celebrities who went to support Springboks in France
