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Cricket fans in America, mark your calendars—June 11 is the day the world stops for the most prestigious clash in Test cricket.

Cricket fans in America, mark your calendars—June 11 is the day the world stops for the most prestigious clash in Test cricket. The 2025 ICC World Test Championship Final is heading to the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, and the matchup is monumental: powerhouse Australia takes on a relentless and reborn South African squad.

If you're new to Test cricket or a seasoned follower, this is the Super Bowl of the sport’s longest and most traditional format. It’s a winner-takes-all five-day battle that crowns the world’s best red-ball team. And this year, it’s shaping up to be an absolute classic.

Why It Matters:
South Africa stormed to the top of the WTC standings with eight wins from 12 games—powered by fast bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and a collective hunger to restore their legacy in Test cricket. They topped the table with a commanding 69.44% win rate.

Australia, defending champions and perennial Test titans, went unbeaten this cycle under coach Andrew McDonald. They finished just behind on 67.54%, only missing the top spot due to a points deduction. Expect fireworks from the likes of Pat Cummins and Marnus Labuschagne.

This final is more than just stats. It’s history. It’s pride. It’s two teams with legacy on the line.

What is the WTC?
Launched in 2019, the World Test Championship gives context to what was once a loose collection of five-day matches. Teams play six series—three at home and three away—over two years. The top two qualify for the final, with one shot at glory.

What’s at Stake?
No second chances. No aggregate points. Just five days, one match, and one champion. Think of it as cricket’s version of a heavyweight title bout—on the turf that wrote the game’s history.

The Stage is Set:
???? Lord’s Cricket Ground, London

???? June 11, 2025

⚔️ South Africa vs Australia

Whether you’re watching for the strategy, the stamina, or the stories, this is Test cricket at its purest. The countdown to the crown is on—and history awaits.

America, don’t miss this one.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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South Africa’s three Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) quarterfinalists enter do-or-die territory this weekend as they face high-stakes matchups with semi-final places on the line.

South Africa’s three Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) quarterfinalists enter do-or-die territory this weekend as they face high-stakes matchups with semi-final places on the line.

The DHL Stormers face arguably the toughest test, travelling to Glasgow on Friday to take on defending champions Glasgow Warriors. The Capetonians, riding a four-match win streak, aim to overturn their poor recent record against the Scots, who have beaten them three times in a row. While Glasgow boasts one of the best home records in the league, the Stormers have outscored them overall this season and are hoping to capitalize on the Warriors’ recent three-game skid.

In Pretoria, the Vodacom Bulls host Edinburgh on Saturday in a repeat of two earlier clashes this season—each team winning one apiece. The Bulls, URC runners-up in 2022 and 2024, are gunning for a home semi-final and enter the match in red-hot form with seven straight wins. Edinburgh, however, will be buoyed by their EPCR Challenge Cup quarterfinal victory over the Bulls and have lost only once in their last five.

Meanwhile in Durban, the Hollywoodbets Sharks face Munster in a high-stakes encounter. The Sharks finished third in the standings and are unbeaten at home except for one game. But recent patchy performances and Munster’s attacking edge could make this a tightly contested battle. A win would send the Sharks to their first-ever URC semi-final.

URC Quarterfinal Fixtures (All times SAST):

Friday, May 30: Glasgow Warriors vs. DHL Stormers – 20:35, Scotstoun Stadium

Saturday, May 31: Vodacom Bulls vs. Edinburgh – 13:30, Loftus Versfeld

Saturday, May 31: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs. Munster – 18:30, Kings Park

All matches broadcast on SuperSport.

Photo: Vodacom Bulls
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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South Africa’s Betway SA20 continues its meteoric rise, with Season 3 delivering record crowds, booming viewership, and massive digital growth — confirming its place among the world’s top T20 franchise competitions.

South Africa’s Betway SA20 continues its meteoric rise, with Season 3 delivering record crowds, booming viewership, and massive digital growth — confirming its place among the world’s top T20 franchise competitions.

The numbers speak volumes. More than 400,000 fans packed into stadiums across the country, with Newlands setting a new benchmark by selling out every home game. The final sold out for the third year running, while the League celebrated its millionth ticket sold at the Wanderers.

Television audiences followed suit. SuperSport viewership surged by 47%, with the final drawing 72% more viewers than the previous season. Globally, SA20’s reach grew by 37% across markets like India, the UK, the US, and wider Africa — underscoring its growing international pull.

Online, the League exploded. Social media followers jumped by 62%, video views nearly doubled, and web traffic more than tripled. Media coverage in India skyrocketed, with a 96% increase in media value and a 231% jump in print stories.

League Commissioner Graeme Smith called it a "game-changer", highlighting the tournament’s unique mix of world-class cricket and fan-first entertainment. “We’ve built something truly special that resonates locally and globally,” he said.

Beyond the boundary, SA20 invested in youth. Through its learnership scheme, 26 young South Africans gained hands-on industry experience, while R630,000 was raised for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. The launch of Schools SA20 saw over 600 schools compete, with Steyn City School (girls) and Bishops Diocesan College (boys) crowned inaugural champions — and two full scholarships awarded to future stars.

With Season 4 set to launch on 26 December 2025, SA20 is fast becoming cricket’s must-watch summer festival — where sport, spectacle and future talent take centre stage.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Following the success of The Reckoning — where WBC Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena delivered a commanding performance at SunBet Arena — South African boxing continues its resurgence with another major event: Fistic Havoc, set for June 21, 2025, at The Galleria in Sandton.

Following the success of The Reckoning — where WBC Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena delivered a commanding performance at SunBet Arena — South African boxing continues its resurgence with another major event: Fistic Havoc, set for June 21, 2025, at The Galleria in Sandton.

This eight-fight card, presented by Aquila Boxing Promotions, is more than a night of competition. It represents a deliberate effort to strengthen the domestic boxing ecosystem and project African talent onto the global stage.

A Main Event with Continental Significance

Headlining the evening is Boyd Allen, a former MMA standout who has transitioned into boxing with remarkable success. Allen will square off against Kagiso Bagwasi, Botswana’s undefeated rising star, in a bout for the IBO All Africa Title.

While the title itself is prestigious, the stakes extend beyond silverware. The fight is emblematic of a broader continental rivalry and serves as a litmus test for the readiness of both athletes to move into the international boxing conversation.

A Deep Undercard Showcasing South African Talent

The supporting bouts highlight the depth of talent across South Africa and the region, featuring a mix of seasoned professionals and promising newcomers. Each fight offers a compelling narrative, with athletes eager to stake their claims as future contenders:

Kaine Fourie vs. Sifiso Hlongwane

Lindokuhle Khuzwayo vs. Jeff Magagane

Leo Careri vs. Kangolo Tshimanga

Tiisetso Matikinca vs. Thabiso Mpolokeng

Luke Hendrikz vs. Thapelo Nkoane

Sabelo Ndwandwe vs. Shawn Nkuna

Rene Tshimanga vs. Amedo Ekala

These matchups are not merely undercard fillers — they serve as meaningful opportunities for fighters to gain visibility, experience, and momentum.

Kevin Lerena: Champion and Promoter

At the helm of this event is Kevin Lerena, whose dual role as a world champion and the founder of Aquila Boxing Promotions (ABP) positions him as a key figure in shaping the next era of South African boxing. Through ABP, Lerena has committed to creating sustainable pathways for African athletes to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

“We’re building more than events,” Lerena states. “We’re building infrastructure, opportunities, and the future of boxing on this continent.”

Supported by major partners such as SuperSport, World Sports Betting, and Tigris Wealth, ABP is quickly establishing itself as a premier promotional outfit — combining professional standards with long-term developmental goals.

A Pivotal Moment for African Boxing

Fistic Havoc symbolizes more than an evening of elite competition. It marks a turning point — a renewed commitment to elevating the sport within South Africa and positioning its athletes as contenders on the world stage.

For spectators, it offers a rare opportunity to experience top-tier boxing in an intimate and professionally run environment. For the fighters, it is a crucial platform — a chance to prove themselves under pressure. And for South African boxing as a whole, it is a decisive step forward in its ongoing revival.

As the lights go up in Sandton and the first bell sounds, Fistic Havoc will serve as a compelling reminder: South African boxing is not only back — it’s building toward something greater.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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The Vodacom United Rugby Championship quarter-final line-up has been confirmed after a dramatic final round of pool fixtures, with South Africa's Bulls and Sharks earning home advantage, while the Stormers will travel to Scotland for a tough clash against Glasgow.

The Vodacom United Rugby Championship quarter-final line-up has been confirmed after a dramatic final round of pool fixtures, with South Africa's Bulls and Sharks earning home advantage, while the Stormers will travel to Scotland for a tough clash against Glasgow.

Quarter-Finals Locked In

The Bulls, already assured of second place before the final weekend, rounded off their regular season with a commanding 55–15 win over the Dragons at Loftus Versfeld. Their nine-try performance, dedicated to late teammate Cornal Hendricks, sets up a quarter-final against Edinburgh in Pretoria on Saturday, 31 May.

Joining them at home will be the Hollywoodbets Sharks, who secured third place by grinding out a 12–3 win over the Scarlets in Durban. Despite a scrappy affair marked by handling errors and missed chances, the Sharks did enough to claim the South African Shield and will now host Munster.

The DHL Stormers booked a playoff trip to Glasgow after defeating Cardiff 34–24 in a fiery clash at the DHL Stadium. Both sides received red cards in a match filled with attacking flair and defensive lapses. The Cape side will now face the Warriors on Friday, 30 May.

Leinster, who topped the table, will host the Scarlets in Dublin to complete the quarter-final roster.


Match Highlights

Stormers 34–24 Cardiff
The Stormers struck five tries, with doubles from Leolin Zas and Suleiman Hartzenberg, while Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s late penalty sealed Cardiff’s fate. The Cape side’s handling errors, however, remain a concern ahead of their Scottish test.

Bulls 55–15 Dragons
A rampant Bulls side dominated from the outset, with tries from Akker van der Merwe (2), Sergeal Petersen (2), and others highlighting their attacking cohesion. The emotional win was a fitting tribute to Hendricks.

Lions 29–28 Ospreys
Jaco Visagie bagged a brace, and Dobela’s dramatic final score clinched a morale-boosting win. The Lions showcased grit in their final outing of the season.

Sharks 12–3 Scarlets
In a scrappy match dictated by penalties, Aphelele Fassi’s accurate boot delivered the win. While the Sharks’ attack misfired, their resolute defence held firm to secure the home quarter-final.

Upcoming Quarter-Finals

Friday, 30 May

Glasgow Warriors vs DHL Stormers, Glasgow

Saturday, 31 May

Vodacom Bulls vs Edinburgh, Pretoria

Hollywoodbets Sharks vs Munster, Durban

Leinster vs Scarlets, Dublin

URC action pauses for a week to accommodate the Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup finals before the race for the title resumes.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Mark your calendars for August 16, 2025—because the United Center in Chicago is about to witness a war.

Mark your calendars for August 16, 2025—because the United Center in Chicago is about to witness a war.

In the main event of UFC 319, South Africa’s Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis puts his UFC Middleweight Championship on the line against the undefeated, unstoppable force that is Khamzat Chimaev. Announced by UFC CEO Dana White via Instagram Live, this is more than a title fight. It’s a collision course between two unbeaten titans, each with everything to prove and nothing to lose.

For Du Plessis (23-2, 9-0 UFC), this is the third defense of a belt he’s fought tooth and nail to earn. The first South African to ever claim UFC gold, he shocked the world in January 2024 with a split-decision win over Sean Strickland at UFC 297. Since then, he’s silenced doubters and flattened critics. At UFC 305, he submitted former champ Israel Adesanya in the fourth round. At UFC 312, he left no doubt in a rematch with Strickland, cruising to a unanimous decision.

The man fights with controlled chaos, an unpredictable blend of striking and grappling that breaks rhythm and breaks spirits. He’s unconventional. He’s relentless. And he’s not buying into the Chimaev hype.

But Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev (14-0, 8-0 UFC) is no ordinary challenger. The Chechen-born, Dubai-based wrecking machine has made dominance look routine. In October 2024, he submitted former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker without taking a single strike. He’s blazed through elite names like Gilbert Burns, Kamaru Usman, and Kevin Holland with ruthless efficiency.

Yes, his rise was slowed by health issues and travel complications—but now, with those hurdles behind him, Chimaev is focused, fearsome, and ready to make his mark. Seven finishes in eight UFC bouts tell the story: when the cage door closes, “Borz” hunts.

The tension is real. The stakes are sky-high. Both fighters are 31, undefeated in the UFC, and fighting for more than just a belt. They’re chasing legacy. They’re hunting greatness. And come August 16, only one man will walk out with the crown—and possibly a place in the pound-for-pound top five.

UFC 319 isn’t just another event. It’s a defining moment for the middleweight division, and for the sport itself. Fireworks guaranteed. Don’t blink.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Wow.

Wow. What a week!

I’m still trying to catch my breath after attending The Reckoning, the glamorous boxing event hosted at SunBet Arena on 1 May 2025. Courtesy of Legacy Boxing Promotions and KDT Comms and Agency, I was invited as media to witness a week filled with grit, glitz, and greatness — and it absolutely lived up to the hype.

It all kicked off on launch day, a red-carpet affair that felt more like a mini Oscars than the start of a boxing showcase. The moment I walked into the room, I could feel the electricity. Big energy, big personalities, big dreams. I had the chance to meet most of the boxers on the card, all laser-focused and ready for war. I also had the privilege of chatting with the visionary behind the entire event, Dewald Mostert. The dynamic promoter of Legacy Boxing Promotions, Dewald, oozes passion for the sport. He told me that The Reckoning had been his brainchild since December 2024, and that it wasn’t just another fight night — it was a statement about African boxing on the global stage. Mission accomplished, Dewald.

The media day on 28 April was a boxing journalist’s dream. I got the chance to interview every single fighter on the card, from rising stars to seasoned warriors. There was laughter, intensity, and even some pre-fight mind games. One moment I was talking strategy with Thabiso Mchunu, the next I was caught up in a hilarious exchange between two debutants hyping their undercard bout. But what struck me most was the mutual respect between the fighters — these men may fight in the ring, but they all understand the sacrifice and discipline it takes to step through the ropes.

On 30 April, I attended the official weigh-in, which was less about numbers and more about theatre. The fighters made weight, the tension crackled in the air, and — in true South African style — we were treated to a dose of humour from local comedians who had everyone, including some of the boxers, in stitches. It was a brilliant reminder that while boxing is brutal, it’s also entertainment — and The Reckoning nailed that balance.

A major highlight for me — one that I’ll carry with me forever — was getting a rare peek into the mindset of world champions. At the end of the weigh-in, I found myself observing an intense rules discussion between both camps and the fight commissioner. Watching Kevin Lerena and Serhiy Radchenko, along with their respective teams, up close in that moment was nothing short of electrifying. They knew it was only 24 hours before lives would be changed.

The body language, the attitude, the silent intensity. It spoke volumes. No extra words needed. You could feel the weight of preparation, the months of training, the laser-sharp focus as they prepared to go into battle. It was a behind-the-scenes view into the psychology of elite athletes, and I was in awe. That kind of access isn’t just rare, it’s once in a lifetime. And I know for a fact, nowhere else in the world would I have had the privilege to witness that level of professionalism and purpose so intimately.

Then came the big day. 1 May 2025. Freedom Day. And what better way to celebrate South African strength and talent than with a five-fight day card that had everything from technical masterclasses to explosive knockouts?

Early evening brought the main bouts. Chris "the wolf" Thompson was in beast mode. Calculated, clinical, and charismatic in the ring. His victory lit up the arena and set the tone for the evening. Thabiso Mchunu, the veteran with fists of iron, showed why he remains one of the most respected names in the game, with a split points decision. The footwork. The angles. The raw power. Pure boxing poetry. And then there was Tulz Mbenge, whose performance had the crowd roaring from the opening bell. His jab was snapping like a whip, and his ring control was simply majestic.

Then onto the main fight. The reason we were all here. Kevin Lerena vs Serhiy Radchenko for the World WBC Bridgerweight title. South Africa vs Ukraine. Thunder vs steel. Lerena, draped in South African pride, walked out to a hero’s welcome. Radchenko, all grit and resolve, looked every bit the challenger on a mission. The bout was electric. From the first bell, it was a tactical chess match, with bursts of savage power. Lerena’s raw strength gave Radchenko problems in the second round, but the Ukrainian wouldn’t go away easily. I was literally 30 cm away from the challenger as he was knocked to the canvas. I felt the knockdown as his sweat fell all over me. I thought the fight was over. I was wrong.

The bell saved him and with a heart of a lion, he came back for the third round — however, it didn’t last long. In the end, it was Lerena who had his hand raised — a well-deserved victory that had the SunBet Arena shaking and singing his name. Take it from me, Lerena is a beast, an animal in the ring. You don't know how great these guys are, unless you experience it up close and personal.

But beyond the fights, this event was dripping in star power. I rubbed shoulders with Dricus Du Plessis, fresh off his second UFC title defence, and the legend himself Vuyani Bungu, who was glowing with pride at how far SA boxing had come. Anele Mdoda, ever the queen of glam and charm, brought her signature sparkle, and there were influencers, athletes, musicians, and high-flyers in every corner. It felt like a cross between a championship fight and a fashion week after-party.

From the red carpet on arrival to some of the best seats in the house, Legacy Boxing Promotions and KDT Comms made sure this was more than an event — it was an experience. Dazzling lights, sharp suits, breathtaking dresses, camera flashes everywhere. If boxing needed a reminder of its place in modern culture, The Reckoning delivered it with uppercuts of style and sophistication.

As I sit here reflecting on the past few days, I can’t help but feel inspired. Boxing, at its best, is a mirror of life — struggle, resilience, glory. And at The Reckoning, I saw all of that and more. It wasn’t just about fists and belts — it was about creating a legacy and providing a platform for boxers.

Thank you to all involved. Boxing is alive. The future is bright. And I was lucky enough to be ringside for history.

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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South African cricket star Kagiso Rabada has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned recreational drug.

South African cricket star Kagiso Rabada has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for a banned recreational drug. The 29-year-old fast bowler, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, confirmed the suspension in a statement issued through the South African Cricketers' Association (SACA).

Rabada returned home from the Indian Premier League (IPL) last month after playing only two matches for the Gujarat Titans. At the time, his early departure was attributed to a “personal matter.” However, it has now been revealed that Rabada tested positive for a recreational substance in a drug test conducted by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS), reportedly before he left for India. “I recently returned to South Africa from participating in the IPL for personal reasons. This was due to my returning an adverse analytical finding for the use of a recreational drug,” Rabada stated. “I am deeply sorry to all those that I have let down. I will never take the privilege of playing cricket for granted. This privilege is much larger than me and goes beyond my personal aspirations.”

Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the suspension and called the incident “regrettable,” but emphasized Rabada’s ongoing commitment to professional standards. “Rabada has reassured CSA and his fans of his dedication to upholding the values of the game and his passion for representing South Africa,” the organization said in a statement. “CSA remains fully committed to drug-free sport and reminds all cricket players of the importance of adhering to anti-doping regulations.”

Despite the setback, Rabada remains hopeful and determined to return stronger. “I am serving a provisional suspension and am looking forward to returning to the game I love. I could not have gone through this alone. I would like to thank my agent, CSA, the Gujarat Titans, SACA, and my legal team for their support and counsel. Most importantly, I thank my friends and family for their understanding and love,” he said. “Moving forward, this moment will not define me. I will keep doing what I have always done—continuously working hard and playing with passion and devotion to my craft.”

Rabada’s absence comes at a critical time for South African cricket. With just over a month until the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s on June 11, his suspension is a significant blow to the Proteas’ chances. Already facing an injury crisis in their pace department, the team was relying on Rabada’s experience and skill to lead the attack.

He was instrumental in South Africa’s qualification for the final, playing key roles in recent Test victories against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. His leadership and consistency have made him a cornerstone of the national team for nearly a decade.

Further details regarding the duration of Rabada’s suspension are expected to be released by SAIDS in the coming days. Until then, his return to international cricket remains uncertain.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Pretoria, South Africa: In 2001, South Africa briefly became the center of the boxing universe when Hasim Rahman shocked the world, knocking out Lennox Lewis at Carnival City to claim the WBC heavyweight crown.

Pretoria, South Africa: In 2001, South Africa briefly became the center of the boxing universe when Hasim Rahman shocked the world, knocking out Lennox Lewis at Carnival City to claim the WBC heavyweight crown. For more than two decades, no bout on South African soil matched that level of global impact—until now.

On May 1, 2025, The Reckoning changed everything. Staged at the sold-out SunBet Arena in Pretoria, The Reckoning was more than a boxing event. It was a defiant return to form, Africa’s roar back into a sport that had left it behind. At the heart of it all was Johannesburg’s Kevin Lerena, defending his WBC Bridgerweight World Title against Ukrainian veteran Serhiy Radchenko.

For South African entrepreneur Dewald Mostert, founder of Legacy Boxing Promotions, the vision was bold: bring world-class boxing back to African soil. At a time when Las Vegas, Riyadh, and London dominate the global fight circuit, Mostert bankrolled a risk few others would take—putting his own money behind an African supercard that featured 23 fighters from the continent, many of whom had long been overlooked by the global boxing establishment.

From the opening bell of the undercard, the tone was set. Rising prospects Gary van Staden and Leo Careeri impressed on debut, Former SA heavyweight champ Chris “The Wolf” Thompson delivered a punishing victory over Malawi’s Mussa “The Elephant” Ajibu. Cruiserweight veteran Thabiso Mchunu, who once pushed current unified heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk to the brink, secured a hard-fought split decision. Rising names Gary van Staden and Leo Careeri impressed on debut, while crowd favourite Tulz Mbenge clinically dismantled Emmanuel Mungand, who had talked a big game but couldn’t back it up.

By the time Lerena entered the ring more than 7,000 fans including celebrities, politicians, former world champions, and UFC Middleweight king Dricus du Plessis—were on their feet. The atmosphere was electric. Lerena, 32, came in with fire. The former IBO Cruiserweight Champion had seen his career take a detour after a crushing loss to Daniel Dubois in 2022—a bout he nearly won after dropping the Brit three times in one round. That missed opportunity still lingered, especially with Dubois now preparing to fight Usyk in front of 90,000 at Wembley. This was Lerena’s moment to remind the world who he is. “This isn’t just about the belt,” Lerena had said before the fight. “It’s about reminding the world that South Africa belongs at the top of boxing.”

Round one was a slow burn. Then came the eruption. In round two, Lerena unleashed his trademark power. Radchenko, a veteran of many wars, had no answers. Punch after punch rained down. The referee hesitated to step in. Only the bell saved Radchenko from an early stoppage. But the end was near. Just 16 seconds into round three, Radchenko’s corner threw in the towel. The arena erupted.

Visibly emotional in his post-fight interview, Lerena made it clear what this victory meant: “After 14 months out of the ring, I treated this like someone was trying to take food off my kids’ table. Nobody’s doing that. When I show up, I beat anyone, heavyweights, Bridgerweights. I just got a call for a possible big fight. Let’s go, baby!”

The Reckoning wasn’t just a boxing showcase. It was a revival. Fighters were treated with respect. Fans were welcomed. The media was engaged. And the atmosphere? Unforgettable. One thing is now certain: South African boxing is alive, hungry, and ready to reclaim its place on the world stage. And after a night like this,

The Reckoning II can’t come soon enough. Kevin Lerena made his statement. The world heard it.

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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Tazmin Brits produced a valiant century, but it was not enough to prevent South Africa from falling to a 15-run defeat against India in a dramatic One-Day International played in searing heat at the R.

Tazmin Brits produced a valiant century, but it was not enough to prevent South Africa from falling to a 15-run defeat against India in a dramatic One-Day International played in searing heat at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Tuesday.

Brits scored a sublime 109 off 107 deliveries, including 13 fours and three sixes, as the Proteas Women chased India’s competitive total of 276 for six. Despite her efforts, South Africa were bowled out short of the target in the final over.

India’s all-rounder Sneh Rana delivered a match-winning performance, earning Player of the Match honours with figures of 5 for 43. Her efforts with the ball followed a composed innings of 78 off 91 balls by Pratika Rawal, who anchored the Indian batting.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, India got off to a solid start with openers Smriti Mandhana (36) and Rawal combining for an 83-run stand. The breakthrough came when all-rounder Annerie Dercksen (1 for 40) dismissed Mandhana, caught behind by debutant wicketkeeper Karabo Meso.

Rawal continued to build the innings, reaching her fifth ODI half-century and combining with Harleen Deol (29) before left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba (2 for 55) made a crucial double breakthrough to leave India at 154 for 2 in the 33rd over.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (41*) and Jemimah Rodrigues (41) added a vital 59-run partnership to steady the innings, before Rodrigues was dismissed via a sharp catch off the bowling of Masabata Klaas (1 for 43). A late cameo by Richa Ghosh (24 off 14) pushed India to a challenging total, though South Africa’s bowlers—Ayabonga Khaka (1 for 42) and Nadine de Klerk (1 for 39)—claimed key wickets to restrict further damage.

In response, the Proteas Women made an excellent start. Brits and captain Laura Wolvaardt (42) added 61 runs during the powerplay, and their partnership blossomed to 140 before Wolvaardt was trapped lbw by Deepti Sharma (1 for 40).

Brits pressed on, supported by Lara Goodall (9) and debutant Meso (7), eventually notching up her third ODI century. Unfortunately, she was forced to retire hurt on 109 due to cramping, leaving South Africa at 170 for 2.

Despite spirited contributions from Suné Luus (28), Chloé Tryon (18) and Dercksen (30), India maintained pressure with disciplined bowling and key breakthroughs. Rana’s five-wicket haul included the returning Brits, who bravely came back in at No. 9.

Two late run-outs sealed South Africa’s fate as India secured victory with four balls to spare.

The Proteas Women will now turn their attention to their next fixture against hosts Sri Lanka on Friday.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]


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South Africa Shocks Australia, Wins World Test Championship at Lord’s

It was more than just a win.

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Kevin Lerena will go to War with Lawrence Okolie

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