The Proteas took to the streets of Langa in Cape Town to celebrate their historic World Test Championship win, parading the coveted mace through the hometown of team captain Temba Bavuma.
Hundreds of residents lined the roads, waving flags and cheering as the national cricket team walked alongside local supporters in a festive and emotional show of pride.
Children held handmade signs while others reached out to greet the players, who paused regularly to sign memorabilia and pose for photos.
Championship tour
The event marked the start of the Cape Town leg of the championship victory tour, which aims to connect the national team with communities often overlooked in major sporting celebrations.
“I think for these kids it will feel different. They watch us on TV. Now they see us live. They see that we are just like them. It helps them believe in their own goals,” said Bavuma, addressing the crowd before the team continued on their tour bus.
The symbolic journey through Langa holds personal significance for Bavuma, who grew up in the area.
Organisers said the event was not only about honouring the team’s achievement but also about inspiring young people to pursue sporting ambitions and making cricket more accessible to all South Africans.
The tour will continue through other parts of Cape Town in the coming days, with more stops planned to allow fans across the city to celebrate with the team.
The Proteas’ World Test Championship victory over Australia at Lord’s last month has been hailed as a major moment for South African sport, with this tour reinforcing efforts to unite the country behind the success of its national teams.
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