As the Springboks prepare for their penultimate clash in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship against Los Pumas, the excitement is palpable. Set to take place in Santiago del Estero on Saturday, this match holds massive significance, not just for South Africa’s championship hopes but for Argentina, who are chasing their first-ever Rugby Championship title.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has made a bold statement by making 10 changes to the starting lineup, showcasing both strategic depth and a long-term vision for the team. Salmaan Moerat, leading the side, will captain a largely revamped squad in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. If the Boks avoid defeat, they will secure the Championship title for the first time since 2019.
Five key players retain their starting roles from the squad that edged New Zealand 18-12 just 10 days ago. Among them are Handré Pollard, who is only four points away from overtaking Morné Steyn as South Africa’s second-highest scorer of all time. Pollard will be joined by Ox Nche, Ruan Nortje, Jasper Wiese, and Jesse Kriel as the core players from that triumphant match.
The inclusion of seasoned campaigners like Lukhanyo Am and Malcolm Marx adds experience to the starting lineup, while the powerhouse Eben Etzebeth is poised to equal Victor Matfield’s record of 127 Test appearances, a milestone that speaks volumes of his legacy in Springbok rugby.
For Argentina, this match represents a historic opportunity. With home advantage and an in-form squad, Los Pumas are still in the running for the title, which would be their first-ever. The passionate support from their home crowd and the pressure of being in such a position will surely make them formidable opponents. They have proven to be tough competitors, especially on home soil, and the Springboks will need to be sharp and relentless in both attack and defense.
Erasmus, ever the strategist, has balanced youth and experience with this squad. Rising stars like Aphelele Fassi, Kurt-Lee Arendse, and Ben-Jason Dixon will be eager to prove their worth on the big stage, while veterans like Marx, Etzebeth, and Pollard provide the stability needed in high-pressure situations.
"This game will be a real test of our squad’s depth and ability to perform under difficult conditions," Erasmus said. "Playing in Argentina is always a challenge, especially with the passionate support they have. But this is exactly the kind of environment we need to expose our players to if we are to build toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup."
In the engine room, Moerat will lock alongside Nortje, while the loose trio of Van Staden, Dixon, and Wiese promises to bring physicality to the breakdown. Reinach and Pollard, as halfbacks, will dictate the pace of play, supported by the midfield duo of Am and Kriel. On the wings, the electrifying Arendse and Mapimpi, alongside Fassi at fullback, will be keen to exploit any defensive lapses by Los Pumas.
With a mix of youth and experience, the Springboks are well-equipped for the challenge ahead, but they must be wary of Argentina's attacking flair and relentless physicality. The last time these two teams met in Argentina, the Boks came out on top, but they will be mindful of their 2018 loss in Mendoza, a reminder that Los Pumas are never to be underestimated on home turf.
As the Springboks aim for their sixth consecutive win in the competition, which would set a new record for their longest winning streak in the Championship, all eyes will be on Santiago del Estero. Will South Africa clinch the title early, or will Argentina spoil their party? One thing is certain: it’s set to be an epic battle, with both teams leaving nothing behind in their quest for glory.
Springbok Starting Lineup:
Ox Nche
Malcolm Marx
Thomas du Toit
Salmaan Moerat (Captain)
Ruan Nortje
Marco van Staden
Ben-Jason Dixon
Jasper Wiese
Cobus Reinach
Handré Pollard
Makazole Mapimpi
Lukhanyo Am
Jesse Kriel
Kurt-Lee Arendse
Aphelele Fassi
Replacements: 16. Jan-Hendrik Wessels
17. Gerhard Steenekamp
18. Vincent Koch
19. Eben Etzebeth
20. Elrigh Louw
21. Kwagga Smith
22. Jaden Hendrikse
23. Manie Libbok
With both teams bringing their best, rugby fans worldwide are in for a thrilling spectacle.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
The Bulls Daisies, a dominant force in South African women’s rugby, were honoured as the 2024 Team of the Year at the 19th Momentum gsport Awards. The prestigious ceremony, which celebrates excellence in women’s sport, was attended by Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Peace Mabe, and showcased the immense talent and achievement of female athletes in South Africa.
The Daisies, who claimed back-to-back championships in the 2023 and 2024 SA Rugby Women’s Premier Division, earned this recognition for their remarkable performance on the field. Over the last two seasons, the team has secured 29 wins from 30 matches, an extraordinary feat that solidifies their dominance in domestic rugby. Beyond their victories, the Daisies have also contributed significantly to the national team, with 15 players representing South Africa at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.
Thando Manana, Executive for Strategic Projects at the Bulls, expressed pride in the team's accomplishments, stating that the award is not just a win for the players but also for the commercial partners who have supported the Daisies from the beginning.
“Congratulations to our Daisies for this outstanding recognition. This award reflects their incredible achievements in professional women’s rugby and is a testament to the dedication they’ve shown on and off the field. It’s also a celebration of the commercial partners who believed in women’s rugby when it wasn’t yet fashionable to do so,” said Manana.
He added, “We are building a future where young girls can pursue their dreams and become global icons. This progress is made possible by the sponsors and supporters who have stood by us, and we are grateful for their continued backing.”
The Bulls Daisies are not only setting the bar in terms of athletic performance but are also trailblazing the way for women’s sports to be seen and celebrated. Platforms like the gsport Awards are essential in breaking barriers and providing much-needed visibility to the incredible talent in women’s rugby and beyond.
As the Daisies continue to make waves in the sport, their success signals a promising future for women's rugby in South Africa. With the team’s drive, talent, and growing support, they are set to inspire the next generation of female athletes to reach new heights.
Image credits: © BBCo/Bulls Daisies (Johan Rynners)
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
16 September 2024 - UAE: The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 will make history as the first international cricket event to offer equal prize money to women as their male counterparts. This decision, reached during the ICC Annual Conference in July 2023, brings cricket to the forefront of gender equality in sports. Notably, cricket is now the only major team sport to achieve this, seven years ahead of the ICC’s original 2030 target.
The prize money for the winning team in the upcoming tournament, hosted in the United Arab Emirates, will be a record-breaking $2.34 million. This marks a substantial 134% increase from the $1 million Australia earned as champions in 2023. The runners-up will receive $1.17 million, double what South Africa took home for their runner-up finish on home soil last year.
The overall prize pool for the 2024 tournament totals $7.96 million, an astounding 225% increase from the $2.45 million awarded in the 2023 edition. This significant boost reflects the ICC’s commitment to the growth and development of women’s cricket.
In addition to the final prize money, the semi-finalists will receive $675,000 each, up from the $210,000 awarded last year. Teams that win during the group stages will also enjoy financial rewards, with $31,154 awarded per victory. Even the six teams that fail to progress to the semi-finals will split a pool of $1.35 million, based on their finishing positions.
The 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup, which begins on 3 October, will feature ten teams battling it out over 23 matches in Dubai and Sharjah. Bangladesh will face Scotland in the tournament opener at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, with the competition culminating in a thrilling finale as teams vie for both glory and unprecedented financial rewards.
This groundbreaking move by the ICC signals not only a commitment to gender equity but also a bold step toward further advancing the women's game. As cricket continues to grow globally, this landmark decision positions the sport as a leader in equality and fairness. With prize money now on par with the men’s competitions, the 2024 Women’s T20 World Cup promises to be one of the most competitive and celebrated events in cricket history.
[Submitted by Estea Rademeyer]
15 September 2024 – Johannesburg, South Africa
In a weekend that epitomized the drama and passion of South African rugby, the Fidelity ADT Lions and the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV have booked their places in the 2024 Carling Currie Cup Premier Division Final. The stage is set for a climactic showdown at Emirates Airline Park next Saturday, promising a thrilling conclusion to a riveting season.
The Carling Currie Cup is more than just a tournament; it's a testament to South Africa's rich rugby heritage. Established in 1891, it stands as one of the oldest and most revered domestic competitions, a showcase of talent where legends are born and rivalries are forged. This year, as ever, it has delivered a spectacle of athleticism, strategy, and raw emotion, culminating in a final that promises to be unforgettable.
The first semi-final at Emirates Airline Park was a clash of titans. The Fidelity ADT Lions, seeking their first final appearance in five years, faced the defending champions, the Toyota Cheetahs. A fiercely contested first half ended 19-19, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess.
The second half was a rollercoaster of excitement. The Lions, propelled by the tactical brilliance of playmaker Sanele Nohamba, who scored a dazzling individual try and contributed crucial conversions and a penalty, surged ahead. Ethan Wentzel's dual tries and Victor Sekekete’s relentless efforts kept the Cheetahs in the hunt, but ultimately, the Lions’ superior second-half intensity secured their place in the final.
At Loftus Versfeld, the Vodacom Bulls and Hollywoodbets Sharks XV delivered a dramatic contest that went down to the wire. The Bulls led 23-19 at halftime but faced a spirited Sharks comeback. Despite playing with a man down, the Sharks managed to equalize at 33-33 by full-time, setting the stage for extra time.
In the extra period, the Bulls looked poised to clinch victory with a 40-33 lead, thanks to Stravino Jacobs’ second try. However, the Sharks, demonstrating remarkable resilience, leveled the scores once more with Trevor Nyakane’s crucial try. The drama intensified when a late penalty attempt by the Bulls’ Boeta Chamberlain fell short, allowing the Sharks to advance to the final on the basis of scoring more tries.
With both semi-finals showcasing intense, high-caliber rugby, the final promises to be a spectacular showdown. The Fidelity ADT Lions will host the Hollywoodbets Sharks XV at Emirates Airline Park on 23 September 2024 at 16:00. The match will be broadcast live on SuperSport, bringing the thrilling action directly to fans across the globe.
The Lions, energized by their dramatic semi-final victory, will look to harness the home advantage and capitalize on their attacking flair. Meanwhile, the Sharks, having demonstrated their grit and determination in a tense semi-final, will be eager to finish the season on a high.
In a season defined by breathtaking performances and nail-biting finishes, the 2024 Currie Cup Final is set to be a fitting climax. Rugby enthusiasts should not miss this opportunity to witness a match where passion meets precision, and where the quest for glory reaches its zenith.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
As Jannik Sinner savors the sweet triumph of his first US Open title, the sport of tennis stands on the brink of a new epoch. The conclusion of 2023 marks the first year since 2002 in which none of the sport's legendary Big Three—Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic—has hoisted a Grand Slam trophy. This seismic shift has set the stage for a transformative period in tennis, where a new generation is not just emerging but is already asserting its dominance with startling conviction.
The Age of the New Titans
The departure of the Big Three has not ushered in a period of uncertainty but rather a bold, exciting new era. The spotlight now shines brightly on Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, two trailblazers born in the 2000s who have made it clear that they are ready to shape the future of the sport. Alcaraz, at just 21, and Sinner, 22, have already carved out impressive résumés, with Alcaraz claiming four Grand Slam titles and Sinner adding his name to the list of major winners.
This generational transition is not just a shift in name but a radical change in style and substance. Alcaraz's exhilarating blend of power and agility, combined with his strategic brilliance, contrasts with Sinner's unyielding consistency and relentless baseline play. Together, they represent a new wave of tennis that is reshaping the game's landscape, pushing boundaries that the Big Three had set so high.
A New Order on the Horizon
The dominance of Alcaraz and Sinner is underscored by their performance throughout the year. By sharing the Grand Slam titles between them, they have not only asserted their individual prowess but also showcased the collective strength of the new generation. This year's Grand Slam results highlight a striking shift: players born in the 2000s are now undefeated in major finals against those born in the 1990s.
Yet, the shadow cast by the Big Three looms large. Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have set a bar so high that their absence leaves a void that will be felt for years to come. Federer’s career is the stuff of legend, marked by 20 Grand Slam titles and a record 310 weeks at No. 1. Nadal, the King of Clay, reigned supreme at Roland Garros with a record 14 titles, while Djokovic, with his own 22 Grand Slam victories, set the standard for mental resilience and adaptability. Together, they captured an astounding 63 of the last 75 Grand Slam titles, a statistic that underscores their unmatched dominance.
The Rise and Fall of the Old Guard
The transition has not been kind to those who were once considered the torchbearers of the sport. The 1990s cohort, including players like Daniil Medvedev and Dominic Thiem, have seen their Grand Slam ambitions thwarted as they face an increasingly dominant new wave. The struggles of other notable players from the previous decade—such as Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas—reveal a broader trend: the new generation is not merely filling the gaps left by the Big Three but actively redefining the game.
As Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic step back, their influence is felt profoundly. The Big Three’s reign was characterized by a consistency and rivalry that created a golden era of tennis—an era where the stakes were perpetually high and the matches unforgettable. Their legacy will forever be etched in tennis history, not just for their titles but for their profound impact on the sport’s global appeal and competitive spirit.
Looking Ahead
The emergence of Alcaraz and Sinner is a testament to how quickly the sport can evolve. Their success serves as both a tribute to the era they are succeeding and a harbinger of the exciting new chapter in tennis. As we look to the future, the potential of players like Ben Shelton and Sebastian Korda, alongside the already established stars, promises a dynamic and competitive landscape.
The legacy of the Big Three will forever be remembered as a high watermark in tennis history. Their achievements have set a standard of excellence that will challenge future generations to rise to their level. However, as Alcaraz and Sinner step into the limelight, they bring with them a new energy and style that is set to redefine the sport for years to come. This is not merely the end of an era but the exhilarating beginning of a new one, where the future of tennis is being written by a fresh, formidable generation.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
As anticipation builds for the Currie Cup semi-final, Vodacom Bulls head coach Jake White is gearing up for a high-stakes clash against the Hollywoodbets Sharks on 14 September. The match, set to kick off at 17:00 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, promises to be a thrilling encounter as two of South Africa’s top rugby teams vie for a spot in the final.
White, who has expertly molded the Bulls into a formidable force in recent years, is excited about the blend of youth and experience in his squad. “It’s exciting times for the Vodacom Bulls,” White remarked. “We’ve reached a point where we have a strong mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. This balance is exactly what we need to succeed in both the Vodacom United Rugby Championship and the Currie Cup.”
In a strategic move, Bulls head coach Phiwe Nomlomo has made notable changes to his starting lineup for the semi-final. The halfback combination will see Keagan Johannes return to scrumhalf, pairing up with Johan Goosen at flyhalf. This change aims to bring fresh dynamics to the Bulls' backline, enhancing their attacking options.
The Bulls' starting XV also features the return of key players, with Stravino Jacobs—dubbed "Rocket Man"—set to make an impact at left wing. Dylan Smith, Akker van der Merwe, and Wilco Louw will anchor the front row, while Bernard van der Linde joins the impact squad alongside other crucial players like Joe van Zyl and Jacques van Rooyen.
Nizaam Carr, shifting from the impact squad to captain, will start at flank alongside Marcell Coetzee, bringing leadership and experience to the forward pack. The centre pairing will see David Kriel move to inside centre with Stedman Gans outside him. Boeta Chamberlain will slot in at fullback, while Henry Immelman runs out again at right wing.
White's optimism about the Bulls' squad is underscored by his confidence in the team's mix of experience and emerging talent. “Having nine Springboks in our squad is a significant advantage. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come,” White said. He also highlighted the experience of players like Ruan Nortjé, whose growth and Test experience will be vital as the Bulls look to overcome the Sharks' challenge.
The Sharks, known for their aggressive play and tactical acumen, will undoubtedly test the Bulls' mettle. However, White and Nomlomo are confident that the squad's depth and strategic adjustments will provide the edge needed to secure a place in the Currie Cup final.
Tickets for the semi-final, starting from R50.00, are available from Ticketpro, and fans are encouraged to secure their seats for what promises to be an electrifying match.
As the Vodacom Bulls prepare to face the Sharks, the blend of seasoned expertise and youthful energy within the squad, combined with strategic changes and leadership, will be key to their success in the Currie Cup semi-final.
IMAGE CREDITS: © Vodacom Bulls
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
As anticipation builds for the Currie Cup semi-final, Vodacom Bulls head coach Jake White is gearing up for a high-stakes clash against the Hollywoodbets Sharks on 14 September. The match, set to kick off at 17:00 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, promises to be a thrilling encounter as two of South Africa’s top rugby teams vie for a spot in the final.
White, who has expertly molded the Bulls into a formidable force in recent years, is excited about the blend of youth and experience in his squad. “It’s exciting times for the Vodacom Bulls,” White remarked. “We’ve reached a point where we have a strong mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. This balance is exactly what we need to succeed in both the Vodacom United Rugby Championship and the Currie Cup.”
In a strategic move, Bulls head coach Phiwe Nomlomo has made notable changes to his starting lineup for the semi-final. The halfback combination will see Keagan Johannes return to scrumhalf, pairing up with Johan Goosen at flyhalf. This change aims to bring fresh dynamics to the Bulls' backline, enhancing their attacking options.
The Bulls' starting XV also features the return of key players, with Stravino Jacobs—dubbed "Rocket Man"—set to make an impact at left wing. Dylan Smith, Akker van der Merwe, and Wilco Louw will anchor the front row, while Bernard van der Linde joins the impact squad alongside other crucial players like Joe van Zyl and Jacques van Rooyen.
Nizaam Carr, shifting from the impact squad to captain, will start at flank alongside Marcell Coetzee, bringing leadership and experience to the forward pack. The centre pairing will see David Kriel move to inside centre with Stedman Gans outside him. Boeta Chamberlain will slot in at fullback, while Henry Immelman runs out again at right wing.
White's optimism about the Bulls' squad is underscored by his confidence in the team's mix of experience and emerging talent. “Having nine Springboks in our squad is a significant advantage. It’s a testament to how far we’ve come,” White said. He also highlighted the experience of players like Ruan Nortjé, whose growth and Test experience will be vital as the Bulls look to overcome the Sharks' challenge.
The Sharks, known for their aggressive play and tactical acumen, will undoubtedly test the Bulls' mettle. However, White and Nomlomo are confident that the squad's depth and strategic adjustments will provide the edge needed to secure a place in the Currie Cup final.
Tickets for the semi-final, starting from R50.00, are available from Ticketpro, and fans are encouraged to secure their seats for what promises to be an electrifying match.
As the Vodacom Bulls prepare to face the Sharks, the blend of seasoned expertise and youthful energy within the squad, combined with strategic changes and leadership, will be key to their success in the Currie Cup semi-final.
IMAGE CREDITS: © Vodacom Bulls
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The Lions Cricket Team roared into the new season with a spectacular launch event at Africa’s premier cricket venue, the DP World Wanderers Stadium. The #SpiritOfChampions was palpable as the Pride set their sights on maintaining their domestic dominance with an unwavering drive for excellence.
In front of over 40 key partners, along with players, media representatives, administrators, and Lions Cricket Board members, the launch revealed an exciting season ahead. Attendees were treated to insights on the season's fixtures, groundbreaking stadium events, and a continued commitment to sustainability through partnerships with organizations like Polyco. The event showcased a robust promise to bring world-class cricket to the community.
While the DP World Lions Men’s team remains largely unchanged, the Women’s team has bolstered its ranks with the addition of seasoned leader Tazmin Brits and promising young talent Liyema Jubati. These new players are expected to enhance the team’s performance and competitive edge.
This season promises a blend of thrilling on-field action and engaging off-field activities, including club activations and dynamic content. Cricket enthusiasts can look forward to spot prizes, the One-Handed Catch competition, influencer contributions, and more, all designed to enrich the fan experience at the state-of-the-art stadium.
Jono Leaf-Wright, a key figure in the Lions Cricket organization, acknowledged the challenge of maintaining high standards but welcomed it with enthusiasm: “The Pride embraces the pressure as a privilege. Our partners, families, fans, and players are all committed to excellence, and we are excited to roar loudly and proudly this season as we strive for peak performance on and off the field.”
Global logistics leader DP World has reaffirmed its support, extending its partnership with the Lions Cricket team. DP World will continue as the headline partner for both the men’s and women’s teams, as well as the Blind and Deaf teams. Esha Mansingh, DP World’s Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the success of their partnership and its impact on the community: “Our ongoing collaboration has led to significant milestones, and we look forward to even greater achievements in grassroots cricket and community engagement.”
The Lions Cricket team also celebrated its renewed partnership with McDonald's, with the Golden Arches extending their support beyond the playing field. New partners ACDC, SANI, Newspirit, Mobi G, Primedia, and 947 have joined the Pride’s roster, contributing to the team’s continued success.
The launch event concluded with a reaffirmation of Lions Cricket’s commitment to teamwork, diversity, equity, inclusivity, and community engagement. The season’s theme, embracing the Spirit of Champions, underscores the organization’s dedication to excellence both on and off the pitch.
Highlights from the 2023/24 Season:
Lions Cricket was named the 2023 Sports Organisation of the Year at the Sports Industry Awards.
The DP World Lions Women’s team secured second place in both the One Day Cup and the T20 Competition.
The DP World Lions Men’s team triumphed in the CSA T20 competition and the 4-Day Competition.
The Colts finished first in both the 50 overs and 3-Day Cricket Northern Group competitions.
The Telkom Lions Academy remained unbeaten throughout the season.
Multiple players received Protea National contracts.
The team achieved the best financial results in 11 years, alongside launching the Beyond Boundaries initiative at DP World Wanderers Stadium.
The stadium enhanced its Smart Stadium capabilities with energy-saving innovations and a GO-GREEN recycling campaign.
2024/25 DP World Lions Men’s Team: Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Temba Bavuma, Rassie van der Dussen, Mitchell van Buuren, Wiaan Mulder, Evan Jones, Bjorn Fortuin, Tshepo Moreki, Codi Yusuf, Kwena Maphaka, Zubayr Hamza, Connor Esterhuizen, Junaid Dawood, Nqaba Peter, Kagiso Rabada, Delano Potgieter, Lutho Sipamla, Dominic Hendricks, Wandile Makwetu, Muhammad Manack, Joshua Richards.
2024/25 DP World Lions Women’s Team: Relebohile Mkhize, Raisibe Ntozakhe, Sarah Nettleton, Kirstie Thomson, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Thabethe, Kgomotso Rapoo (C), Sunette Viljoen-Louw, Sinalo Jafta, Diara Ramlakan, Lehlohonolo Meso, Samantha Schutte, Sarah Barber, Tumi Sekhukhune, Madison Landsman, Tazmin Brits, Chloe Tryon, Liyema Jubati, Refilwe Moncho, Jenna Evans, Karabo Meso, Shabnim Ismail, Razeena Manack, Palesa Mapoo.
The Lions Cricket team is primed for another extraordinary season, continuing their quest for glory with the unwavering support of their partners and fans.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
The upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is not just another cricket tournament—it’s a historic moment for women’s sports in the Middle East. For the first time, a global women’s cricket event will be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a move that promises to leave a lasting legacy for the sport in the region. From October 3 to 20, the world’s top 10 teams will compete in 23 thrilling matches, spread across Dubai and Sharjah.
The UAE, known for its diverse population, is a perfect backdrop for this global event. As ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice noted, the tournament will feel like a "home World Cup" for all teams, with fans from various backgrounds passionately supporting their countries. To ensure accessibility and to encourage young people to engage with the sport, tickets start from just five dirhams, with free entry for those under 18—a clear initiative aimed at fostering the next generation of cricket lovers.
Teams and Tournament Structure
This year’s T20 World Cup promises fierce competition. Group A features heavyweights like six-time champions Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, Group B includes Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies, and Scotland. Each team will play four group-stage matches, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semifinals.
Key fixtures include Bangladesh’s opener against Scotland and the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash on October 6. Defending champions Australia will begin their campaign on October 5 against Sri Lanka, and the semifinals are scheduled for October 17 and 18, followed by the grand finale in Dubai on October 20.
A Lasting Impact
Beyond the excitement on the field, this World Cup is poised to make a significant impact off it. The ICC, in partnership with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) and Dubai Sports Council, has planned events like criio festivals to introduce more than 500 girls to cricket, creating an inclusive environment for young fans to experience the game firsthand. This legacy initiative aims to grow women's cricket in the UAE, encouraging girls to pick up a bat and ball, and get involved in the sport.
The collaboration between the ICC, ECB, and Bangladesh Cricket Board ensures that the tournament will be a success both in terms of sport and cultural exchange. As Zaid Abbas of the ECB emphasized, the UAE has a strong track record of hosting world-class cricket, and this tournament will further cement its reputation as a premier cricketing destination.
ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice, who made the announcement at a media conference that he addressed along with Emirates Cricket Board’s (ECB) Board Member Zaid Abbas, also praised the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a venue. “One of the exciting things about the UAE is its diversity. It’s a place where the entire world is represented! This means that this is effectively a home World Cup for all 10 teams and players can enjoy the support of passionate fans. With that in mind, I’m delighted to announce today that tickets will be available from just five dirhams and under 18s will go free. “We will also be working with the ECB and the Dubai Sports Council on the legacy of the event. We will be holding criio festivals to give more than 500 girls the chance to get involved in the game and have a fun first experience of cricket,” said Allardice, who thanked the ECB for hosting the tournament after it was moved from Bangladesh. “I would like to thank the ECB and our friends at the Dubai Sports Council as well as the teams at the Dubai International Stadium and Sharjah Cricket Stadium for their extraordinary efforts,” added Allardice, who also released a video of a spectacular laser show on the tournament at the iconic Burj Khalifa.
A Bright Future for Women's Cricket
With accessible ticket pricing, the involvement of local communities, and the world’s best cricketers taking center stage, the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 is set to inspire fans across the globe. This event is more than just a cricket tournament—it’s a celebration of women’s sport and a step towards building a stronger future for women’s cricket worldwide.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Following their historic Freedom Cup victory, comparisons between the current Springbok side and the legendary 2009 team are inevitable. Both teams share a glittering record, including winning a World Cup, a British & Irish Lions series, and a string of victories over New Zealand. However, the key difference lies in what comes next.
While 2009 marked the pinnacle for that era’s Springbok team, the 2024 squad, under the guidance of Rassie Erasmus, appears poised to build upon their success, potentially ushering in an even greater era for South African rugby. The recent Rugby Championship campaign signals the beginning of a new chapter, one marked by both consistent success and tactical evolution.
Erasmus’ team remains undefeated in this year's Rugby Championship, with four wins in four games, including back-to-back victories over New Zealand. If they maintain this momentum in their upcoming matches against Argentina, they could become the first Springbok side to achieve a clean sweep in the Rugby Championship since its inception. Additionally, this team could become the first South African squad since 1998 to win every match in a Southern Hemisphere campaign.
The Future Looks Bright
Erasmus has been transparent about his grander vision. Winning the Freedom Cup was a major achievement, but the Springboks are focused on bigger goals, including the 2026 three-Test series against New Zealand and the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. To get there, the Boks must strike the right balance between youth and experience, and continue to develop their attacking game plan.
The signs of progress are evident. Eleven new players have been blooded across the first six tests of the year, and previously fringe players like Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Aphelele Fassi, and Elrigh Louw have stepped up in crucial matches. While mistakes were made, these players gained valuable experience, contributing to the team’s impressive record of seven wins from eight matches.
The Springboks are scoring an average of 33 points and four tries per game, while conceding just 17 points and 1.6 tries. These are extraordinary statistics, especially given the constant rotation of players. Erasmus has demonstrated that a dynamic, evolving team can still deliver results at the highest level.
The Bigger Picture
A deeper analysis might reveal areas for improvement, but the platform has been laid for future success. The Springboks have embraced a more fluid, squad-based approach to selections, allowing Erasmus to harness the wider talent pool. In modern rugby, the best teams are no longer reliant on a settled starting XV; they build depth across the squad, preparing for the inevitable demands of a long season.
As Erasmus looks ahead to the 2027 World Cup, he has indicated that around 50 players will be in consideration. This may seem like a large number, but given the age profile of many current stars, it’s essential to bring in fresh talent now. Many veterans who have won two World Cups may not make it to the next tournament, and younger players need to be nurtured before a balanced squad can be assembled.
A Historic Moment, But Just the Beginning
South Africa’s Freedom Cup triumph and their recent dominance over New Zealand are significant, but they should be seen as the start of something bigger. With Erasmus at the helm, the Springboks are primed to push forward and continue evolving their game. The next few months provide an opportunity to experiment, develop depth, and solidify an attacking strategy that can take the team to unprecedented heights.
If all goes to plan, the Springboks will not only be remembered for their successes in 2024 but as the team that set the foundation for future greatness.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
