United in Victory - Proteas Men invite fans to celebrate South African cricket history

On Wednesday, at around 9:25am the ICC World Test Championship 2025 Mace will touch down at OR Tambo International to its permanent home in South Africa.

After years of trials and tribulations, South African cricket fans finally have a meaningful reason to celebrate, as the Proteas Men return home with the coveted Mace.

Following their triumphant victory on Saturday at Lord’s, the Proteas are eager to give back to their supporters. This win is not just a celebration of their on-field success but a tribute to the countless South African fans and former players who have stood by them through every emotional high and testing low.

Cricket South Africa, together with coach Shukri Conrad and captain Temba Bavuma, extends a heartfelt invitation to South Africans to unite and join them in celebrating this historic moment for South African cricket on Thursday at Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton City from 1pm-3pm.

Come and be part of the celebrations, meet your favourite Proteas players and get a closer look at the coveted WTC mace. Plus, the first 100 fans to arrive will receive an exclusive WTC Champions shirt!

That’s not all - fans can look forward to exciting spot giveaways throughout the event. And for one lucky supporter, there’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to join the Proteas on stage for a champion’s photo opportunity.

Bring your friends, family, and colleagues and be part of the action! Let’s honour this incredible achievement together, it’s your victory too.

South African Cricket – United in Victory.

Meanwhile, the Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) extends theirheartfelt congratulations to the Proteas Men on their historic ICC World Test Championship Final triumph over Australia this past weekend.

South Africa ended a 27-year drought by defeating the defending champions by 5 wickets, claiming the coveted Test Championship Mace.

The Proteas struck early when Bavuma chose to bowl first. The paceattack, spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada (5/51), dismantled the Australian batting lineup, dismissing them for 212 in under 60 overs.

Australia, however, mounted a strong comeback by bowling South Africa out for 138 in the first innings, with World Sports Betting (WSB) Western Province Men batter David Bedingham top scoring with 45.

Despite being on the back foot, Conrad’s men unleashed another dominantpace performance in the second innings. Rabada (4/59) and Lungi Ngidi (3/38)restricted Australia, setting South Africa a target of 281.

A heroic second-innings century by Aiden Markram (136), supported by 66 fromBavuma, placed the Proteas in a commanding position. After the departures of Bavuma, Markram, and Tristan Stubbs, the WSB Western Province Men pair of

Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne held their nerve to guide South Africa home -punching the air in celebration of the monumental achievement.

WPCA CEO, Corrie van Zyl, who was present at the Home of Cricket, said: “This has truly been one of my most memorable, if not the most memorable, events I’ve had the privilege to witness live, surrounded by South African supporters.

“The level of courage and calmness displayed by Temba and the team speaks volumes about their character and the quality of the team’s management.

“South Africa is indebted to this group for finally removing the monkey from our backs. How light we all feel now! I’m confident this marks the beginning of many more triumphs to come. Shosholoza!!!!”

WPCA President Johannes Adams added: “This victory is not only a proud moment for South African cricket, but a powerful reminder of what resilience, unity and belief can achieve. The Western Province Cricket Association is especially proud of the contributions made by our very own Bedingham and Verreynne, who showed tremendous composure on the world stage. We salute the entire Proteas squad and coaching staff for inspiring a nation and restoring hope in South African cricket. May this be the dawn of a new golden era.”