SA gripped by Bok-mania

2007-10-19 13:26

Johannesburg - South Africa has been gripped by Bok-mania on the eve of Saturday's Rugby World Cup final in Paris, with the country awash in the dark green of the national team.

Green-and-gold Springboks jerseys were sold out at many stores throughout the country, leaving fans to exhibit their support for the team's bid to beat England for a second World Cup title in other ways.

One dairy company in Gauteng province had coloured its milk green while Steers restaurant chain was dishing up luminous green burgers.

Schools had asked children to forgo their uniform for dark green shirts.

Not to be outdone, politicians from across the political divide were also proclaiming they "bled green."

South African President Thabo Mbeki said he would be donning a Springboks jersey and cap at the Paris final against England, where he was sure "we will bring the cup home."

Former president Nelson Mandela, who was unable to travel to Paris for the final as had been hoped by the team, also "did not doubt for a moment that the Springboks can win back the trophy."

- SAPA