Roy Orbison's lyrics often reflect the spirit of America. In his song "Walk On," he could easily be describing the T20 World Cup taking place in the US. The tournament has arrived in a location that seems unfamiliar and hard to find, with minimal signs that it is happening. Unlike countries with a robust cricket culture, this place seems to marginalize the sport.

In New York, the Cricket World Cup goes largely unnoticed. There are no indications at airports, on subways, or even on the Long Island Rail Road, which takes you near—but not directly—to the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium. Situated in a location that heavily relies on cars, reaching the stadium requires a considerable walk from the nearest public transportation drop-off point.

In spite of the logistical hurdles, the highly anticipated cricket event in the United States is capturing some interest. The match between India and Pakistan in New York has completely filled two stadiums—the main venue and the Met Stadium fan park. Despite this achievement, the larger challenge of promoting a new sport in a city filled with various entertainment choices remains hidden.

There was quite a buzz surrounding the fan park at the World Trade Centre, where people gathered to watch the first match from Dallas. The tournament kicked off with a match between the USA and Canada, echoing the historic first international cricket match between these two nations in the 19th century. Yuvraj Singh, the ICC ambassador, drew a large crowd at the fan park as he honoured the victims of 9/11 and engaged in playful banter about his Punjabi friends in the teams. However, only a few remained to witness the cricket match.

Meanwhile, the opening match in Dallas presented a contrasting scene. The city seemed to have little interest in cricket, as even Uber drivers were oblivious to the event, and billboards were promoting soccer matches instead. The Grand Prairie Stadium, with a capacity of 7,000 seats, did not reach full attendance for the USA-Canada game, which is raising concerns among the tournament's organisers.

Thunderstorms and logistical issues exacerbated the difficulties in Dallas. Severe weather conditions wreaked havoc on the surroundings, resulting in a messy media area. Initial reports indicated a full-capacity event, but later, USA Cricket members exclusively received discounted tickets, causing additional complications with ticketing.

Regardless of these challenges, it is important to acknowledge that promoting cricket in America is a worthwhile pursuit. The ICC's efforts to expand the reach of the sport deserve recognition, despite encountering some scepticism. Attracting the 4.5 million-strong South Asian diaspora in the US to stadiums can be quite a challenge, given the wide distribution of fans across the country.

Dallas, known for its vibrant cricket community, showcases this particular challenge. There are a significant number of club matches played on a weekly basis, which highlights the considerable local enthusiasm for the sport. However, it continues to be a challenge to fill a 7,000-seat stadium.

For those who choose to go, the facilities are absolutely top-of-the-line. The Grand Prairie Stadium has received high praise from players for its exceptional conditions and top-notch amenities, establishing it as the perfect venue for the highly anticipated World Cup opener. However, its creation does not guarantee its arrival.

Ultimately, the T20 World Cup in the US is a daring venture. There are several obstacles to overcome, ranging from practical considerations to promotional difficulties. However, the fact that this tournament is taking place in America shows that cricket has the potential to expand beyond its usual boundaries. There is optimism that the thrill will intensify as the tournament unfolds, and cricket will establish itself in a country with countless entertainment options.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

After an exciting IPL season filled with incredible scores, Ricky Ponting, the former Australian captain, offers some advice to teams and batters as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2024. Ponting anticipates that the pitches, particularly in the West Indies, may become slower as the tournament progresses, which could have an effect on high-scoring matches. With the West Indies and the USA co-hosts, this prediction adds an interesting element to the tournament.

Ponting made some remarks following Sri Lanka's disappointing display against South Africa, which saw them dismissed for a paltry 77 runs. A remarkable display by Anrich Nortje, who took four wickets for just seven runs, shed light on the difficulties that batters encounter on these fresh pitches. Anrich Nortje recorded a staggering total of 127 dot balls, setting a new record for the highest number in a men's T20 World Cup match.

South Africa emerged victorious with a six-wicket win in just 16.4 overs at the recently opened Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, overcoming a challenging chase. Nortje downplayed any worries about the venue, stating that an exciting match doesn't necessarily rely on "20 sixes," while teammate Heinrich Klaasen stressed the importance of combining Test and ODI abilities to adapt to the unpredictable bounce and movement of the drop-in pitch.


Ponting has highlighted the impact of day games on the ball's behaviour. He emphasised that the swing and seam of the ball will require batters to approach their innings with caution and adjust their expectations for scoring. "In the IPL, 240 was considered a typical target." He believes that it is highly improbable in New York, which introduces a new set of challenges.

The ICC is embarking on an ambitious project to construct a cricket stadium in New York. Damian Hough, Adelaide Oval's head curator, has been in charge of preparing four drop-in pitches at the venue. A warm-up match took place between India and Bangladesh on a recently constructed ground.

The US leg will feature half of the 16 matches as day games in New York, including the highly anticipated India versus Pakistan match. Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, emphasised the significance of swiftly adjusting to the unfamiliar conditions, echoing the sentiments expressed by Ponting.

Ponting also talked about the impact of the IPL on expectations, recalling the embarrassing incident where the Kolkata Knight Riders' impressive score of 272 embarrassed the Delhi Capitals. "Scores of 300 are becoming more achievable in the IPL thanks to the remarkable quality of the pitches and the rules that favour power-hitting," he observed. Nevertheless, he emphasised the importance of maintaining fair competition between the teams and encouraging them to be flexible.

In the coming days, Ponting predicts that as the tournament progresses, pitches in the Caribbean may slow down, which could give spinners an advantage. He also expects teams to potentially achieve scores of 200 or more. "The pitches in the Caribbean may have a strong start but could gradually lose pace as the game progresses. "Teams need to be ready for a wide range of conditions," he concluded.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Every tennis enthusiast can reel off the Grand Slam lineup: the Australian Open, the French Open (Roland-Garros), Wimbledon, and the US Open. Yet, two of these prestigious tournaments boast historical names, while the other two are identified by their countries. Wimbledon’s storied tradition is well-known, but why does the French Open earn the title Roland-Garros?

As the Roland-Garros tournament approaches, it's time to delve into its rich history and unique challenges. We'll explore the remarkable winners, the distinct clay courts, and the legacy that continues to inspire a new generation of tennis fans.

I have been fortunate enough to attend Wimbledon, the US Open and the Australian Open on several occasions.  It has therefore been an incredible honour to be invited to the tournament this year to experience all of its culture, its excitement and its history. There is no doubt that the tournament is like no other and it was a chance to tick off a bucket list event. This year says good bye to the King of Clay which makes the two weeks even more memorable.


The Origins of Roland-Garros

The name Roland-Garros honors an individual whose life had nothing to do with tennis. Roland Garros was a pioneering aviator, a war hero who invented the onboard machine gun for fighter planes. His valor and ingenuity made him a symbol of French resilience. After being imprisoned during World War I, he escaped and returned to fight, ultimately losing his life at just 29.

In 1928, ten years after his death, a new tennis facility was built to host the Davis Cup, and it was named Stade Roland Garros to commemorate this national hero. This homage extends beyond his wartime achievements, reflecting the spirit of tenacity and innovation that epitomizes the best tennis players.


The French Open: An Overview

The French Open is the second Grand Slam tournament of the year, following the Australian Open and marking the end of the ATP clay court season. Unlike its counterparts, Roland-Garros is the only Grand Slam event played on clay courts.

Contrary to what the name suggests, these courts are not made of traditional clay. Known as "la terre battue," the surface consists of crushed brick, giving it a characteristic reddish hue. Below this layer lies limestone, volcanic rock, gravel, and bedrock. This composition makes for slower, higher-bouncing balls, offering a distinct challenge compared to grass or hard courts. The Roland-Garros complex boasts 18 such courts, each demanding exceptional skill and strategy from players.


A Storied Venue

Despite its relatively small size—21 acres compared to other Grand Slam venues—Roland-Garros offers a rich blend of history and modern amenities. Visitors can enjoy matches, dine in its restaurants, stroll through gardens, or explore its museum. This year, the French Open runs from May 22 to June 11, promising three weeks of thrilling tennis.


The Women's Singles Cup

The women's singles tournament at Roland-Garros began in 1897 with just four players. Today, over 100 contenders vie for the prestigious Suzanne Lenglen Cup, named after the first Number 1 ranked female tennis player and fashion icon who won eight Grand Slam titles.

This year’s competition features top players like Naomi Osaka, Angelique Kerber, and Iga Świątek, the current World Number One. Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka also aim to leave their mark, though the road to victory is fraught with formidable opponents.


The Men's Singles Cup

The men's trophy, la Coupe des Mousquetaires, honours four legendary French players—Jean Borotra, Jacques Brugnon, Henri Cochet, and René Lacoste—who dominated tennis in the early 20th century and led France to six Davis Cup victories.

Rafael Nadal, the "King of Clay," has won the Musketeers' Cup 14 times and holds the record for the longest winning streak on clay courts. However, coming off an injury, he is not the favorite this year. Rising star Carlos Alcaraz, currently ranked third in the ATP, and seasoned champion Novak Djokovic are among the top contenders.


Clay Court Challenges

Clay courts require a different skill set than grass or hard courts. The slower surface demands agility, endurance, and strategic play. Legends like Pete Sampras and Roger Federer found clay challenging, while players like Nadal and Świątek thrive, using their light-footed agility and varied gameplay to excel.


This year's Men's Singles draw features 99 contenders and numerous alternates, each striving to qualify for the main event. Whether Nadal can overcome his injuries or Alcaraz can capitalise on his momentum remains to be seen.


The Legacy of Roland-Garros

While the winners take home a replica of the iconic trophies, the original Cups remain at Roland-Garros, symbolising the tournament's enduring legacy. The prize money is equal for men and women, emphasising the tournament's commitment to equality.

As we celebrate the start of the French Open, we honour the spirit of Roland Garros, the hero, and the remarkable athletes who embody his resilience and innovation. The clay courts of Roland-Garros continue to be a battleground where history is made and legends are born.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

South Africa's recent T20I series against the West Indies offered valuable insights, highlighting areas of strength and areas for improvement as they gear up for the upcoming T20 World Cup. In a stunning series finale, the West Indies emerged victorious by 8 wickets ensuring a flawless 3-0 series sweep. Throughout the matches, it became evident that the Proteas faced significant challenges in adjusting to the unique conditions of the Caribbean. Rassie van der Dussen, the stand-in captain, shared this sentiment.

In the second match at Sabina Park, Roston Chase showcased his exceptional skills, leading the West Indies to a strong total of 207-7 with an impressive 38-ball 67. The player's impressive display, along with valuable contributions from Brandon King and Kyle Mayers, resulted in a challenging target for South Africa, which they found difficult to match. In the match, King managed to score 36 runs off 22 balls, while Mayers contributed a rapid 32 runs off just 16 balls. A young leg-spinner from South Africa, Nqabayomzi Peter, made his debut and managed to take two important wickets. However, a 63-run partnership between Chase and Romario Shepherd caused real damage.
The start of South Africa's reply was full of promise, as openers Reeza Hendricks and Quinton de Kock quickly reached 81 runs in just 4.5 overs. De Kock displayed an aggressive batting performance, scoring 41 runs off just 17 balls. His innings included four boundaries and four maximums. Similarly, Hendricks contributed with a quickfire of 34 runs off 18 balls, highlighting his talent. Unfortunately, the middle class failed to sustain the momentum. Gudakesh Motie was exceptional in the match, taking three wickets for just 22 runs in his four overs. His brilliant performance, which included dismissing van der Dussen, proved to be a major obstacle for the opposing team as they fell short by 16 runs in their chase.

Van der Dussen attributes some of the challenges to fatigue and a slow initial adjustment. "We struggled to adjust quickly." We experienced a week filled with numerous layovers in Miami and other locations. "We noticed this in the first game, but it's important to avoid making the same mistakes again," he said.
Throughout the series, South Africa struggled with their batting performance, highlighting the importance of adopting a more aggressive strategy, particularly during the powerplay. "We should consider being more courageous in our approach to batting," he suggested. The West Indies displayed an assertive strategy, while South Africa's more conservative approach resulted in early wicket losses and a lack of momentum.

The Proteas' success in the future will depend on the comeback of seasoned players such as Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, and Tristan Stubbs. Despite his inconsistent performances in the IPL, van der Dussen maintains a hopeful outlook on his impact. The individuals possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Several of them have participated in CPL on multiple occasions," he observed, emphasizing the significance of their experience in adapting to the diverse conditions anticipated in the USA for the T20 World Cup.
Klaasen and Stubbs had a successful IPL season, however the same can not be said for Makram, Miller and De Kock. The Proteas will need the top six to be firing on all cylinders when the World Cup starts.

On the bowling front, there are some challenges, as Anrich Nortje's form has been lacking, and there are concerns about Ottneil Baartman's fitness. The team faced additional challenges because important players such as Kagiso Rabada and Tabraiz Shamsi were unable to participate due to injuries. Nevertheless, the performance of debutant leg-spinner Nqaba Peter was quite promising, providing a glimpse into what lies ahead.

The questions will continue whether the side has been prepared adequately. England chose to recall all their IPL players to prepare against Pakistan. India and Australia have also taken advantage of the IPL where most of their players got a lot of play time. Time will tell if the Proteas will wilt.
Before they begin their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka, South Africa will play one final warm-up match in Florida. The recent series in the Caribbean was a challenging one, but it offered valuable insights that could strengthen the Proteas and make them a stronger team internationally. The team will focus on refining their strategies and addressing the areas of improvement highlighted in the Caribbean as they travel to Florida for additional preparations.

[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Pretoria, 20 May 2024: Positive strides have been made in transforming South African rugby, according to the South African Rugby Union (SA Rugby). This comes after an internal audit of the Strategic Transformation Development Plan 2030 (STDP 2030).

Focus Beyond the Field:

Mark Alexander, SA Rugby President, expressed satisfaction with the overall performance. He highlighted the commitment of Provincial Unions in achieving their self-set transformation goals. While acknowledging challenges in team demographics, Mr. Alexander emphasized the positive development of pathways within the sport.

The STDP 2030 goes beyond on-field representation. It encompasses crucial areas like governance, staffing, procurement, and committee structures.

Balancing Transformation and Performance:

Mr. Alexander emphasized the ongoing nature of transformation. He pointed to the progress evident in national teams under the leadership of Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus.

"We have demographic targets for the Springboks," he said, "but we also have performance targets that we won't compromise on. We're definitely on the right track with both."

Recent media discussions around transformation were acknowledged, with Mr. Alexander stating that headlines often create a disproportionate picture.

Building an Inclusive Culture:

Inclusion is a key aspect of SA Rugby's strategy, ensuring everyone feels valued and heard within the team environment.

"Our commitment goes beyond diverse representation," Mr. Alexander explained. "We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture where every player, regardless of background, feels valued."

Springboks Reflecting Available Talent:

The Springbok selection process prioritizes the best players available for national representation each year. This reflects the current talent pool, while demonstrating progress in creating opportunities for new heroes from diverse communities.

The Springbok team's contribution to social cohesion was also highlighted. Mr. Alexander praised the recent honorary doctorate awarded to Rassie Erasmus, acknowledging his understanding of what it means to be South African.

Continuous Improvement:

The STDP 2030 is a long-term plan with a target completion date of 2030. Annual reports provide a mechanism for measuring progress, celebrating successes, and identifying areas for further improvement.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Get ready, Pretoria and Cape Town, for a musical event fit for royalty! The legendary Andrea Bocelli, a vocalist whose voice has melted hearts for three decades, is embarking on his 30th Anniversary Tour, and South Africa is a lucky stop thanks to Big Concerts!

Prepare to Be Swept Away

Imagine this: The SunBet Arena in Pretoria bathed in warm light. Anticipation crackles in the air as a 60-piece choir and a majestic 69-piece orchestra take their places. Then, the maestro himself, Andrea Bocelli, steps onto the stage, his voice promising an unforgettable evening.

A Voice That Needs No Introduction

With over 90 million records sold, Bocelli is a titan of the music industry. He's performed for presidents, popes, and even royalty. But his accolades don't tell the whole story. This is a man who has sung at the Olympics, the World Expos, and even the National Prayer Breakfast – three times!

More Than Just a Pretty Voice

Bocelli's talent goes beyond the breathtaking. Did you know he also holds a law degree? Or that he founded his own foundation to promote positive change around the world? This is a man of depth and compassion, and it shows in his music.

Don't Miss Out: Tickets Go on Sale Soon!

Here's the important part: Tickets go on sale this Friday, May 24th, at 9:00 AM! Don't miss your chance to witness this musical legend live.

Joining the Maestro on Stage

Adding an extra layer of magic, Bocelli will be joined by some of South Africa's finest musical talents. The Symphony Choir of Johannesburg and the Johannesburg Festival Orchestra will grace the Pretoria stage, while Cape Town will welcome The Philharmonia Choir of Cape Town and the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra.

This is more than just a concert; it's a harmonious meeting of international and local brilliance.


Here are the all-important dates:

Pretoria: April 12th & 13th, 2025 at SunBet Arena, Time Square
Cape Town: April 16th, 2025 at DHL Stadium (intimate configuration)
Get ready for a night filled with breathtaking vocals, powerful music, and an unforgettable experience. It's Andrea Bocelli, and he's coming to South Africa!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

In the realm of cricket, where greatness is measured by trophies and heroes are forged on the pitch, Titans Cricket stands tall as a colossus of dominance, revered across the globe. In a span of two decades, Titans Cricket has etched its name in history, securing a remarkable 20 trophies from 2004/2005 to 2023/2024, surpassing all other test-playing nations worldwide. Auckland Cricket (New Zealand) comes closest with 15 trophies in the same period, trailing the Titans by a significant five championships.

Reflecting on this phenomenal achievement, Titans Cricket CEO, Dr. Jacques Faul, spoke with pride about the team's journey. "Being the most decorated cricket team globally over the past 20 years speaks volumes about the dedication and talent within Titans Cricket. Our pursuit of excellence propels us to constantly strive for victory, to bring home trophies, and to represent our team with pride on the international stage," remarked Dr. Faul.

From the seasons of 2004/05 to 2013/14, Titans secured a total of 10 trophies, including four 4-Day titles, three CSA One Day Cup triumphs, and three T20 Challenge victories. Building on this foundation, the subsequent years from 2014/15 to 2023/24 witnessed Titans Cricket clinching another 10 trophies, comprising three 4-Day championships, three CSA One Day Cup conquests, and four T20 Challenge victories. Titans' 7 T20 titles in 20 years make them the team with the most twenty-twenty trophies globally, with Sailkot Stallions following closely with 6 trophies and Mumbai Indians with 5 trophies.

Titans Cricket has been a nurturing ground for cricketing legends and emerging talents alike. From the illustrious careers of veterans like Quinton De Kock, Chris Morris, Faf du Plessis, AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn, Albie and Morne Morkel, to the rise of promising young stars like Donovan Ferreira and Dewald Brevis, Titans has seen it all. These players have shared the field with current stars including Heinrich Klaasen, Lung Ngidi, and Aiden Markram, among others. "Legends are not merely born; they are shaped and polished through dedication and opportunity," remarked Dr. Faul. "At Titans, we take immense pride in our role in shaping the careers of cricketing icons and providing a platform for emerging talents to shine. Our legacy is not just in trophies but in the consistent impact we have on the sport globally."

Faul also acknowledged the competitive spirit of their Johannesburg-based neighbors, The DP World Lions, who have clinched an impressive 10 trophies over the past decade. Together, Titans and Lions have secured a remarkable 20 out of 30 trophies during this period. Specifically, from the 2004/5 season to 2013/14, both the Titans and Cobras clinched 10 trophies each, once more, the combined efforts of the two teams resulted in them securing 20 out of the 30 available trophies.

Looking ahead, The Sky Blues remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, determined to maintain their status as champions in all endeavors while dominating on the field. With a blend of experience and youth, a culture of determination, and a global vision, Titans march forward, poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The Betway SA20 roared back for its second season, leaving cricket fans breathless and hungry for more! Not only did Sunrisers Eastern Cape snatch the title in a sold-out Newlands final, but the entire season was a record-breaking extravaganza.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Viewership went ballistic! Global audiences surged by 21%, with broadcasters in India, UK, US, and Australia tuning in for the electrifying action. Locally, SuperSport witnessed a 24% viewership jump, with a surprising (and awesome!) 46% being female viewers.

Social Media Frenzy

The love for Betway SA20 exploded online! The league's social media following doubled, while video views, website visits, and fan interactions rocketed by over 100%. The final match itself saw a mind-blowing 882% increase in social media buzz compared to Season 1.

Cricket Like You've Never Seen Before!

From Will Jacks' jaw-dropping 41-ball century to Heinrich Klaasen's explosive batting that earned him Player of the Season honors, the cricket was pure fire. Fans witnessed 4 centuries, 49 half-centuries, and a whopping 454 sixes launched into the stands! Bowlers weren't to be outdone either, with 3 stunning 5-wicket hauls.

The Stands Were Roaring!

The electric atmosphere at the stadiums mirrored the action on the field. Ten matches were completely sold out, and a whopping 70% of all tickets were snapped up throughout the season. A fan survey revealed that 96% found the stadium experience "very enjoyable," proving Betway SA20 is a must-see event.

Global Recognition

The league's success went beyond borders. Media coverage generated a PR value of a staggering R4 billion, reaching a mind-boggling 75.5 billion people worldwide. Even in South Africa, non-traditional news outlets jumped on the bandwagon, further amplifying the league's reach.

More Than Just Cricket

Betway SA20 wasn't just about sixes and wickets. The tournament remained committed to social good, raising R900,000 for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa.

A Season to Remember

League Commissioner Graeme Smith summed it up perfectly: "We are incredibly proud of Season 2. The growth in viewership, following, engagement, and attendance showcases the immense interest in Betway SA20. We can't wait to do it all again next year – bigger and better!"

Mark your calendars, cricket fans! Betway SA20 is here to stay, promising another season of record-breaking cricket, electrifying crowds, and unforgettable moments.
The Betway SA20 roared back for its second season, leaving cricket fans breathless and hungry for more! Not only did Sunrisers Eastern Cape snatch the title in a sold-out Newlands final, but the entire season was a record-breaking extravaganza.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Viewership went ballistic! Global audiences surged by 21%, with broadcasters in India, UK, US, and Australia tuning in for the electrifying action. Locally, SuperSport witnessed a 24% viewership jump, with a surprising (and awesome!) 46% being female viewers.

Social Media Frenzy

The love for Betway SA20 exploded online! The league's social media following doubled, while video views, website visits, and fan interactions rocketed by over 100%. The final match itself saw a mind-blowing 882% increase in social media buzz compared to Season 1.

Cricket Like You've Never Seen Before!

From Will Jacks' jaw-dropping 41-ball century to Heinrich Klaasen's explosive batting that earned him Player of the Season honors, the cricket was pure fire. Fans witnessed 4 centuries, 49 half-centuries, and a whopping 454 sixes launched into the stands! Bowlers weren't to be outdone either, with 3 stunning 5-wicket hauls.

The Stands Were Roaring!

The electric atmosphere at the stadiums mirrored the action on the field. Ten matches were completely sold out, and a whopping 70% of all tickets were snapped up throughout the season. A fan survey revealed that 96% found the stadium experience "very enjoyable," proving Betway SA20 is a must-see event.

Global Recognition

The league's success went beyond borders. Media coverage generated a PR value of a staggering R4 billion, reaching a mind-boggling 75.5 billion people worldwide. Even in South Africa, non-traditional news outlets jumped on the bandwagon, further amplifying the league's reach.

More Than Just Cricket

Betway SA20 wasn't just about sixes and wickets. The tournament remained committed to social good, raising R900,000 for the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation South Africa.

A Season to Remember

League Commissioner Graeme Smith summed it up perfectly: "We are incredibly proud of Season 2. The growth in viewership, following, engagement, and attendance showcases the immense interest in Betway SA20. We can't wait to do it all again next year – bigger and better!"

Mark your calendars, cricket fans! Betway SA20 is here to stay, promising another season of record-breaking cricket, electrifying crowds, and unforgettable moments.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

Get ready to dust off your dancing shoes and crank up the volume because Roxette is coming back to South Africa! Five years after the heartbreaking loss of Marie Fredriksson, the legendary Swedish pop duo will return to the stage in 2025 with "ROXETTE IN CONCERT 2025."

While Marie's absence will forever be felt, her legacy and the timeless music she created with Per Gessle will live on. This tour is a celebration of Roxette's incredible songbook, penned entirely by Gessle, who will lead the Roxette band in a heartfelt tribute to their music and their fans.

Joining Per on stage for this special tour will be Swedish singer and megastar, Ms. Lena Philipsson. Gessle emphasizes that this isn't a replacement for Marie, but rather a way to keep the Roxette flame burning bright.

"This is all about my Roxette songs," Gessle says. "I'm not starting a new duo. Marie will always be irreplaceable. I'm extremely proud [Lena] wants to join me in my trek to keep the Roxette legacy alive."

Philipsson, a shining star in her own right, shares her excitement: "I'm both excited and thrilled about embarking on this tour. I really look forward to working with Per – he is a phenomenal songwriter and a neverending musical force."

The Roxette band will be a powerhouse of talent, featuring long-time collaborators Christoffer Lundquist, Magnus Börjeson, Magnus "Norpan" Eriksson, and Dea Norberg, alongside original Roxette members Clarence Öfwerman and Jonas Isacsson.

Mark your calendars, because after nine long years, "Roxette in Concert" is kicking off in Cape Town, South Africa!

Tickets go on sale to the general public at 09h00 on Friday 10 May 2024 exclusively from www.ticketmaster.co.za or via www.bigconcerts.co.za.

Here are the confirmed tour dates:

February 26: Cape Town, Grand Arena, GrandWest, South Africa
February 28: Pretoria, SunBet Arena, Time Square, South Africa
Get ready to sing along to all your favorite Roxette hits, from "The Look" and "It Must Have Been Love" to "Listen To Your Heart" and "Joyride." This is a concert you won't want to miss!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]

The 17th Annual South African Sport Awards, a celebration of sporting excellence, pulsated Sun City with vibrant energy on Sunday night. This year's ceremony, themed "Celebrating 30 years of freedom through sporting excellence," transcended mere competition, highlighting the profound role sport plays in building a strong, unified South Africa.

The Springboks reigned supreme, showcasing the power of teamwork and dedication. Siya Kolisi, the inspirational captain whose leadership extends far beyond the field, secured both the Sport Star of the Year and the People's Choice Award. The roar of the crowd echoed Kolisi's immense influence, not just on the team's recent World Cup victory but on the nation's spirit.

The Springbok dominance continued with Jacques Nienaber, the mastermind coach, taking home Coach of the Year. The unmovable force in the pack, Eben Etzebeth, won Sportsman of the Year, while the exciting newcomer, Manie Libbok, secured the Newcomer of the Year award. After completing the green and gold sweep, the South African Rugby Union won both National Federation of the Year and Administrator of the Year, with Mark Alexander receiving the latter.

However, the evening wasn't solely about the current golden generation. The awards beautifully incorporated South Africa's rich sporting history. Legendary figures like Makhaya Ntini, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Brian Mitchell, and Cassius Baloyi took center stage, announcing awards and inspiring the next generation with their iconic journeys. Their presence served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of South African athletes and the unifying power of sport.

With the 2024 Olympic Games and Cricket World Cup looming large on the horizon, the awards ceremony served as a rallying cry. The dedication of athletes across all disciplines promises an exciting future as South African sport continues its upward trajectory. The 17th SA Sport Awards were a celebration of sporting excellence but, more importantly, a testament to the unifying power of sport in building a nation on the cusp of even greater victory.

Full list of winners:

Administrator of the Year: Mark Alexander (SA Rugby Union)

Sportsman of the Year: Eben Etzebeth (Springboks)

Sportsman of the Year With a Disability: Mpumelelo Mhlongo (South African Sport Association for the Physically Disabled)

Sportswoman of the Year: Kirsten Neuschäfer (Sailing South Africa)

Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability: Simone Kruger (South African Sport Association for the Physically Disabled, Para Athletics)

Team of the Year: Springboks

Newcomer of the Year: Manie Libbok (Springboks)

Coach of the Year: Jacques Nienaber (Springboks)

Volunteer of the Year: Rebecca Ntsanwisi (Vakhegula Vakhegula)

Indigenous Games Team of the Year: Diketo Gauteng

National Federation of the Year: South African Rugby Union

Recreation Body of the Year: Amandla Social Enterprises (WC)

Sport Photo or Visual Journalist of the Year: Samuel Shivambu

Sport Journalist of the Year: Khanyiso Tshwaku

Sport Star of the Year: Siya Kolisi (Springbok captain)

People’s Choice of the Year: Siya Kolisi (Springbok captain)

School team of the Year: Hoër Landbouskool Oakdale – tug of war 560kg junior men’s team

Developing School Team of the Year: Hlabi Secondary School – netball U-19 team

Technical Official of the Year: Sean Rapaport (South African Hockey Association).



(Photo: OJ Koloti / Gallo Images)
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]