Messages of congratulations have poured in for the South African cricket team after their historic six-wicket victory over Australia in the first Test in Perth on Sunday morning, with a host of sports personalities expressing their jubilation and delight.
Springbok captain John Smit congratulated the Proteas on their win.
”Well done to Graeme and the boys on a well-earned victory. You have done South Africa and yourselves proud. Australia are always formidable opponents and it takes some doing to beat them at home, especially in front of fans who are so passionate and, at times, unforgiving.
”Not only is it a test of your sporting ability but also of your mental toughness, patience, temperament and self-belief. These are all qualities that shone through in this great win.
”Each and every player did his part to ensure that the Proteas earned a deserved victory. We all know that the Australians will fight back in the next two Tests and it is important that the guys maintain the momentum going into the second clash.
”The series is a long way from over but what a fantastic start this win has given us. Good luck in the next two, we know that you are capable of sealing an historic, and long overdue, series win.”
Bafana Bafana captain Aaron, Mokoena said: ” On behalf of Bafana Bafana we would like to congratulate the Proteas on their wonderful victory in Australia. Graeme showed great leadership even under trying circumstances and we wish them the best of luck throughout the rest of the series.”
National women’s captain Cri-Zelda Brits believed their mental toughness influenced this result tremendously. ”I was watching this morning [Sunday] and the guys just seemed to have a different attitude, I’m extremely happy for them. They’re often labelled as chokers but they dug deep and showed some guts. It should be a great confidence booster for the remainder of the series.”
Former spinning prodigy Paul Adams was at a loss for words ”There aren’t any words to describe that win. It was an absolutely superb effort by the guys and a great feat for the history books.”
Another spin bowler, Clive Eksteen, had this to say: ”I’m absolutely ecstatic, it is unbelievable. My whole family got up early this morning and the boys have made us very proud.” — Sapa