While our men in green and gold once again made the nation proud by booking their spot in this year’s Rugby World Cup (RWC) final after a hard-fought victory against England, fellow stalwart Makazole received a standing ovation at a local grocery store back home.
This past weekend, the Springbok flyer did his weekly errands at Spar in East London when he was welcomed by a group of rugby supporters who all cheered for the Bok winger.
In the video clip, which is still trending on social media, the Bok number 11 is seen caught off guard while approaching the till as those around him begin singing jubilant songs.
He later embraces the joy and starts clapping along.
Watch:
?? A true national treasure!
Makazole Mapimpi just out getting his groceries. ? #RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/B5QP421vgk
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) October 20, 2023
Makazole, who played an important part in the Boks winning the 2019 RWC was part of the initial 33-man squad to take part in this year’s tournament in France. However, after recently suffering a fractured eye socket in his match against Romania, he was then flown home and replaced by fellow teammate Lukhanyo Am.
The Boks’ coaching staff also previously highlighted that should the defending champions secure themselves another final, the Bok winger as well as hooker Malcolm Marx, who also sustained an injury, would be flown in to attend the prestigious event.
It seems this would definitely be happening now!
In a recent Instagram post, Makazole gave fans an update on his recovery by posting a picture on the progress of his rehabilitation. The caption read, “All good here.”
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This coming Saturday, 28 October, the Springboks will be defending their title against their old foe, New Zealand. The match will be a repeat of the 1995 final.
Also read: WATCH: Proudly SA moments caught on camera after Rugby World Cup semi-final
