A big chunk of the 31 players that did duty in Japan in the last two months arrived on two different flights after close to 40 hours of travel time from Tokyo on Tuesday.

Groups of Springbok players and management flew via Sydney and Abu Dhabi. More squad members are arriving on Wednesday.

The first groups to arrive – which included World Rugby Player of the Year Pieter-Steph du Toit, RWC final try-scorers Cheslin Kolbe and Makazole Mapimpi, as well as RWC final man of the match Duane Vermeulen – were greeted by massive cheers from thousands of green and gold-clad supporters as pandemonium broke out when the Boks exited into the International Arrivals hall.

Kolisi and South Africa’s Director of Rugby, Rassie Erasmus – whose flight via Sydney was delayed by a few hours – landed after 19h00, with supporters patiently waiting for their arrival, and the arrivals hall erupting with thunderous cheers when the Bok captain walked through the doors carrying the Webb Ellis Cup.

They thanked the supporters for coming out in their droves to welcome their heroes back.

“In Japan, we got a glimpse of the support back home, but this reception is something else – we can’t begin to thank everyone for backing us throughout this journey,” said Kolisi.

“We did this for all South Africans – ordinary people who work tirelessly all day long to care for their families and friends and ultimately make our wonderful country an even better place.

“Winning the World Cup on foreign soil was very special – and arriving home to this wonderful support is the cherry on top. We are tired but grateful, humbled and over-awed – thank you.” 

African News Agency (ANA)