Cape Town – All Blacks captain Ardie Savea has praised South Africa for the “unity” shown during the latest chapter of the rivalry between New Zealand and the Springboks.
Savea led New Zealand to a 33-16 victory over South Africa at Ellis Park over the weekend, but the 32-year-old chose to highlight the warmth shown by Springbok supporters rather than celebrate his side’s win.
The All Blacks captain shared a series of clips and photographs on social media showing South African fans welcoming and congratulating him after the match.
The footage included supporters singing the South African national anthem and dancing to the unofficial anthem Sister Bethina. Savea also shared footage of Airlink’s double flyover at the stadium, which formed part of the celebrations around the Greatest Rivalry series.
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In another photograph, two of Savea’s youngest children could be seen wearing Springbok replica jerseys.
“Unity,” Savea captioned the post.
Savea has previously spoken highly of playing at Ellis Park, describing it as one of the best venues for a rugby player.
Ahead of the match, the All Blacks captain said he was excited to experience the atmosphere and the occasion.
“It’s probably the best place you want to play as a footy player, Ellis Park, and you run out and then you see the Springbok warriors coming out and the team and the crowd,” Savea said.
He also recalled meeting former Springbok captain John de Villiers, whom he said he had watched as a child.
@rnznewzealandAll Blacks captain Ardie Savea says Ellis Park is the most intimidating venue in world rugby, but also the most special. After missing the first three games of the tour of South Africa, Savea will lead the All Blacks out on to the famous ground in Sunday morning’s opening test in Johannesburg. “It’s probably the best place you want to play as a footy player, Ellis Park,” Savea said. Read the full story at the link in bio, plus follow LIVE game coverage at rnz.co.nz from 3am Sunday 🔗♬ original sound – RNZ
“Even just being here, mate, I just walked past and I saw John de Villiers. You know, I watched him when I was a kid. So just shaking his hand was pretty special.”
Savea said the occasion carried additional significance because of the history between the two rugby nations.
“The stakes are high. You know, everything’s, you know, there’s a lot of hype and edge around it,” he said.
Despite the intensity of the rivalry, Savea said the All Blacks respected the Springboks.
“We respect Springboks, and a real class outfit they are, but also I believe we’re just as quality.”
The victory gave New Zealand bragging rights at Ellis Park, but Savea’s social media tribute highlighted the friendship and mutual respect that continue to exist between the players and supporters of the two rugby nations.
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Picture: Instagram/ Ardie Savea
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi
