Cape Town - Springbok coach Peter de Villiers and vice-captain Victor Matfield presented the Proteas, South Africa’s national cricket team, with a special banner to wish them luck for the forthcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, to be held in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh between February 19 and April 2.

De Villiers and Matfield attended the Proteas’ farewell dinner in Johannesburg on Tuesday night, where the Bok lock presented Proteas captain Graeme Smith with a banner of good luck, wishing the cricketers well on their quest for World Cup honours.

Referring to the success of last year’s FIFA World Cup in South Africa, Matfield said: “2010 was a good year for our country, but let’s make 2011 an even better year by doing the double.” The Springboks will defend their Rugby World Cup crown in September and October in New Zealand.

The experienced Smith thanked the Springboks for their support: “We really appreciate the support and we look forward to returning the favour by wearing the Springbok jersey in their support when the Rugby World Cup takes place.”

De Villiers said: “The entire Springbok team and South African Rugby fraternity are behind the Proteas. Playing in a World Cup is a major challenge, but we have no doubt that Graeme and his side will do themselves and our country proud.”


Graeme Smith and Victor Matfield (Gallo Images)