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Cape Town - Minister of Sport and Recreation Fikile Mbalula has paid homage and tribute to the Springbok team that defeated Argentina to claim the third place in the Rugby World Cup.
The Springboks claimed third spot at the 2015 RWC after beating Argentina 24-13 in the Bronze Final at London's Olympic Park stadium on Friday night.
"I take this rare opportunity to salute Victor Matfield, Schalk Burger, Brian Habana, Fourie du Preez, Jean de Villers for their selfless services and infinite commitment to the man in black green and gold and the people of South Africa," said Mbalula in a statement released on Saturday.
"These senior players , who by right and exhibition, reached their twilight days in international rugby remain loadstars to the current generation and a source of inspiration to posterity. Go well you South African compatriots! Farewell you faithful soldiers.
"We must be vigilant, defend the core-values, consolidate what we have achieved thus far, advance and deepen the struggle for democracy, transformation and development in sport. The Springboks and the transformation of any other code must be located in that vortex of a nation constructing its identity and taking its rightful place in the global community.
"We take our hats off to the team for demonstrating once again that victory and glory belong to those who are prepared to make supreme sacrifices.
"The Springboks are the harbingers of the future and the posterity will benefit immensely by taking a leaf from their trial and tribulations," added Mbalula.
