South Africa takes to the International Court of Justice and calls Israel's actions genocidal in nature.

South Africa: Israel trying to destroy Palestinians

In South Africa, severe rains and flash floods have resulted in at least six fatalities and more unaccounted for deaths. Over the past few days, there have been numerous periods of intense rain in the western regions of the nation, causing considerable weather instability.

South Africa rains: Several dead after rain triggers flash floods

<p>South Arica skipper Temba Bavuma believes that India's bowling attack for the upcoming two-Test series nullifies the challenges of playing in different conditions. Bavuma also attributed India's success in overseas conditions while playing red-ball cricket to their skillful bowling attack. He made the comments in Centurion where the two sides will face off each other in Boxing Day (Dec. 26) Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We understand conditions a lot better so you'd expect us to adapt a lot better but their bowling is quite strong," said Bavuma. "The fact that they've been able to achieve such success is because of their bowling attack and that kind of nullifies the advantage we have. It's more between the batters and how the batters take on that challenge," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ex-india-player-parthiv-patel-disagrees-with-rahul-dravid-naming-kl-rahul-as-wicketkeeper-for-sa-tests-673294">Ex-India player Parthiv Patel DISAGREES with Rahul Dravid naming KL Rahul as wicketkeeper for SA Tests</a></p>

<p>India, notably, have never been able to win a Test series in South Africa and Bavuma said they take a lot of pride in keeping the record intact.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There's a lot of pride attached to that - that we've been able to keep that record intact as a South African team... all of us as players also feel that," he said. "But we understand playing against India comes with certain challenges and it's those types of challenges we would like to focus on. Playing against India comes with a lot more eyes and a lot more scrutiny in terms of everything we do. So it's accepting that." he added.</p>

<p>India will be full strength when they take the field, at least in terms of batting, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both coming back to the side after skipping the white-ball leg of the tour.</p>

<p>As for the bowling, India's ODI World Cup 2023 hero Mohammed Shami won't be taking part in the series with injury but Jasprit Bumrah will feature in the playing XI. Another important player who will be missed is wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant who is still recovering from the injuries sustained in the car crash he suffered in December last year.</p>


South Arica skipper Temba Bavuma believes that India's bowling attack for the upcoming two-Test series nullifies the challenges of playing in different conditions.

South Arica skipper Temba Bavuma believes that India's bowling attack for the upcoming two-Test series nullifies the challenges of playing in different conditions. Bavuma also attributed India's success in overseas conditions while playing red-ball cricket to their skillful bowling attack. He made the comments in Centurion where the two sides will face off each other in Boxing Day (Dec. 26) Test. "We understand conditions a lot better so you'd expect us to adapt a lot better but their bowling is quite strong," said Bavuma. "The fact that they've been able to achieve such success is because of their bowling attack and that kind of nullifies the advantage we have. It's more between the batters and how the batters take on that challenge," he added. Also Read: Ex-India player Parthiv Patel DISAGREES with Rahul Dravid naming KL Rahul as wicketkeeper for SA Tests India, notably, have never been able to win a Test series in South Africa and Bavuma said they take a lot of pride in keeping the record intact. "There's a lot of pride attached to that - that we've been able to keep that record intact as a South African team... all of us as players also feel that," he said. "But we understand playing against India comes with certain challenges and it's those types of challenges we would like to focus on. Playing against India comes with a lot more eyes and a lot more scrutiny in terms of everything we do. So it's accepting that." he added. India will be full strength when they take the field, at least in terms of batting, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli both coming back to the side after skipping the white-ball leg of the tour. As for the bowling, India's ODI World Cup 2023 hero Mohammed Shami won't be taking part in the series with injury but Jasprit Bumrah will feature in the playing XI. Another important player who will be missed is wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant who is still recovering from the injuries sustained in the car crash he suffered in December last year.

South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma says Indian bowling attack nullifies home advantage in upcoming Test series

<p>Indian captain KL Rahul praised his group of young players after Sanju Samson hit a maiden international century and set up a series-deciding win for India against South Africa in the third one-day international in Paarl on Thursday.</p>

<p>Samson made 108 in an Indian total of 296 for eight at Boland Park.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South African captain Aiden Markram's decision to send India in to bat on a slow pitch on a hot afternoon backfired as the hosts were bowled out for 218 in reply.</p>

<p>India arrived in South Africa without most of the players who took the country to the World Cup final last month. But they won two of the three matches in convincing fashion.</p>

<p>"It's a really young group of players," Rahul said at the post-match presentation. "They have played a lot of cricket but not at international level.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The message was to let them adjust to international cricket and let them get used to the pressure. Have fun initially and after a few games start expecting things from them."</p>

<p>Left-arm opening bowler Arshdeep Singh rose to the challenge spectacularly. He took 10 wickets in the series, including four for 30 on Thursday, and was named player of the series.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-sanju-samson-pulls-out-powerful-bicep-celebration-after-maiden-international-ton-vs-south-africa-672265">Sanju Samson pulls out POWERFUL bicep celebration after maiden international ton vs South Africa</a></strong></p>

<p>South Africa were well-placed when Tony de Zorzi (87) and Markram (36) put on 65 for the third wicket to take the total to 141 in the 26th over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the innings fell away when Markram gloved an attempted reverse sweep off Washington Sundar to wicketkeeper Rahul and De Zorzi was leg before wicket to Arshdeep 20 runs later.</p>

<p>Former international players in the commentary box were surprised at Markram's decision to bowl first but Markram said he didn't believe it influenced the result.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We were good in small patches," he said. "I still don't think the surface changed much."</p>

<p>Samson summed up the conditions well, batting patiently as stroke-making became challenging when the two white balls lost their hardness.</p>

<p>Samson and Tilak Varma (52) took 88 balls to post a fifty partnership for the fourth wicket but they picked up the pace and eventually added 116 off 136 balls.</p>

<p>Samson made his runs off 114 balls with six fours and three sixes.</p>

<p>The foundation laid by Samson and Varma enabled India's lower-order batsmen to score rapidly towards the end of the innings, with 51 runs scored off the last five overs.</p>


Indian captain KL Rahul praised his group of young players after Sanju Samson hit a maiden international century and set up a series-deciding win for India against South Africa in the third one-day international in Paarl on Thursday.

Indian captain KL Rahul praised his group of young players after Sanju Samson hit a maiden international century and set up a series-deciding win for India against South Africa in the third one-day international in Paarl on Thursday. Samson made 108 in an Indian total of 296 for eight at Boland Park. South African captain Aiden Markram's decision to send India in to bat on a slow pitch on a hot afternoon backfired as the hosts were bowled out for 218 in reply. India arrived in South Africa without most of the players who took the country to the World Cup final last month. But they won two of the three matches in convincing fashion. "It's a really young group of players," Rahul said at the post-match presentation. "They have played a lot of cricket but not at international level. "The message was to let them adjust to international cricket and let them get used to the pressure. Have fun initially and after a few games start expecting things from them." Left-arm opening bowler Arshdeep Singh rose to the challenge spectacularly. He took 10 wickets in the series, including four for 30 on Thursday, and was named player of the series. WATCH: Sanju Samson pulls out POWERFUL bicep celebration after maiden international ton vs South Africa South Africa were well-placed when Tony de Zorzi (87) and Markram (36) put on 65 for the third wicket to take the total to 141 in the 26th over. But the innings fell away when Markram gloved an attempted reverse sweep off Washington Sundar to wicketkeeper Rahul and De Zorzi was leg before wicket to Arshdeep 20 runs later. Former international players in the commentary box were surprised at Markram's decision to bowl first but Markram said he didn't believe it influenced the result. "We were good in small patches," he said. "I still don't think the surface changed much." Samson summed up the conditions well, batting patiently as stroke-making became challenging when the two white balls lost their hardness. Samson and Tilak Varma (52) took 88 balls to post a fifty partnership for the fourth wicket but they picked up the pace and eventually added 116 off 136 balls. Samson made his runs off 114 balls with six fours and three sixes. The foundation laid by Samson and Varma enabled India's lower-order batsmen to score rapidly towards the end of the innings, with 51 runs scored off the last five overs.

Rahul praises youngsters after Samson ton sets up ODI series win

A big blow to South Africa's ruling African National Congress party as the former South African president Jacob Zuma has now said that he won't be supporting the African National Congress in the elections that are slated next year.

South Africa former president withdraws support from ruling party

Former president Jacob Zuma has taken on incumbent president Cyril Ramaphosa head-on. Zuma has denounced the ruling African National Congress party he is now backing a newly formed political party called MK Party in South Africa's general election next year.

South Africa: Africa National Congress Party loses support of Jacob Zuma

South Africa former President withdraws support from ruling party, attacks President

South Africa's government turns to the business community to boost economic growth. The country aims to boost GDP by as much as six percentage points by fixing the country's collapsing ports and freight-rail network.

South Africa's plans to fire up economy | World Business Watch

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidygP7Wi2E0WSd" /><meta charset="utf-8" />A little more than a year after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa crowned Misuzulu ka Zwelithini as the new Zulu king, a court on Tuesday (Dec 12) ruled that the crowing was "unlawful and invalid".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pretoria High Court, issuing a stern statement, ordered Ramaphosa's government to set up an inquiry to investigate whether the accession of King Misuzulu Zulu took place in line with customary laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court cleared that it was not determining who was the rightful king but whether the president had followed the proper procedures before recognising Misuzulu as the monarch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a spokesman of Ramaphosa's legal team, they are still studying the ruling by the court. It remains unclear if he plans to accept the ruling or to challenge it in a higher court.</p>

<p>"Only once they've completed their thorough study of the judgement will a determination on the way forward be made," the spokesman said.</p>

<h2><strong>What is happening in the royal family?</strong></h2>

<p>King Goodwill Zwelithini died in March 2021 following a reign of more than 50 years. He had six wives and at least 28 children. Misuzulu is the first son of his third wife Shiyiwe Mantfombi Dlamini Zulu, whom he had designated as regent in his will. The queen was from the Swati royal family.&nbsp;Her dowry was paid for by the Zulu nation which, according to experts, gives her children precedence for the throne.</p>

<p>However, the queen died suddenly a month after her husband, leaving a will naming Misuzulu as the monarch for the Zulu people living in South Africa. After the queen's death, different factions emerged within the royal family and challenged Misuzulu's claim to the throne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zwelithini’s daughters from his first wife claimed signatures on the will were forged. Their mother, at the time sought a judicial ruling that her marriage in 1969 under civil law to the late king should take precedence over any traditional unions.</p>

<p>As a result, 49-year-old Misuzulu had to wait over 15 months until August 2022 when he was eventually crowned in an elaborate ceremony. Following the traditional ceremony, Ramaphosa conducted a state ceremony two months later where Misuzulu was given a certificate of recognition in front of thousands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under South African law, a new king is given official recognition by the president which paves the way for him to be treated like a constitutional monarch.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaphosa's endorsement did not go down well with Misuzulu's older brother, Prince Simakade who went to the court and argued that the president's official recognition of his younger half-brother as the monarch was rushed and failed to follow proper traditional and legal procedures.</p>

<p>Under Zulu custom, the eldest son does not automatically become king, and there have been vicious power struggles for the throne in the past as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-thousands-of-men-and-women-in-south-africa-celebrate-the-coronation-of-new-zulu-king-508853" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Thousands of men and women in South Africa celebrate the coronation of new Zulu king</strong></a></p>

<p>Even before the fight for the throne reached its crescendo, Simakade said his candidature for the throne was constantly being undermined by Misuzulu's men.</p>

<p>In 2021, Simakade said a statement attributed to him, purportedly saying he would not challenge his brother, King Misuzulu, was “misunderstood or deliberately distorted”.</p>

<p>“Notwithstanding my clear and unambiguous position, stated in my statement, circumstances have compelled me to repeat what I previously said, namely that if the Zulu royal family - which as you may know has the exclusive jurisdiction and right to appoint the heir to the throne - were to nominate and appoint me, I would not dishonour its wishes," said Prince Simakade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I further stated that, if someone other than me were to be duly nominated and appointed I will accept that decision, and pledge my full and unreserved support for him,” he said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/africa/who-was-mangosuthu-buthelezi-south-african-apartheid-era-politician-and-zulu-prince-who-died-at-95-634590" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Who was Mangosuthu Buthelezi? South African apartheid-era politician and Zulu prince who died at 95</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Who is with whom?</strong></h2>

<p>The fight for the throne has become a political battle as well. South Africa's third biggest political party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has put its weight behind Misuzulu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"King, my undisputed King. Bayede [Hail the King]," said Julius Malema, the leader of EFF.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Prince Simakade's supporters are confident that the court ruling is the first step in helping him eventually become the king of Zulu.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-african-court-rules-governments-recognition-of-zulu-king-unlawful-669211" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | South African court rules government’s recognition of Zulu king unlawful&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Who are Zulus?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Zulu nation is the largest ethnic group in South Africa with an estimated 12 million Zulu-speaking people, predominantly in the KwaZulu-Natal region.</p>

<p>Zulu kings are the descendants of King Shaka, a figure respected even in modern Africa, for uniting a sizable portion of the country as the Zulu nation and leading it in the brutal fight against the British colonisers.</p>

<p>The royal family has no formal government powers but upholds Zulu tradition and controls millions of hectares of land through a trust. Monarchs also receive public funds and have significant political influence.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A little more than a year after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa crowned Misuzulu ka Zwelithini as the new Zulu king, a court on Tuesday (Dec 12) ruled that the crowing was "unlawful and invalid".

A little more than a year after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa crowned Misuzulu ka Zwelithini as the new Zulu king, a court on Tuesday (Dec 12) ruled that the crowing was "unlawful and invalid". The Pretoria High Court, issuing a stern statement, ordered Ramaphosa's government to set up an inquiry to investigate whether the accession of King Misuzulu Zulu took place in line with customary laws. The court cleared that it was not determining who was the rightful king but whether the president had followed the proper procedures before recognising Misuzulu as the monarch. According to a spokesman of Ramaphosa's legal team, they are still studying the ruling by the court. It remains unclear if he plans to accept the ruling or to challenge it in a higher court. "Only once they've completed their thorough study of the judgement will a determination on the way forward be made," the spokesman said. What is happening in the royal family? King Goodwill Zwelithini died in March 2021 following a reign of more than 50 years. He had six wives and at least 28 children. Misuzulu is the first son of his third wife Shiyiwe Mantfombi Dlamini Zulu, whom he had designated as regent in his will. The queen was from the Swati royal family. Her dowry was paid for by the Zulu nation which, according to experts, gives her children precedence for the throne. However, the queen died suddenly a month after her husband, leaving a will naming Misuzulu as the monarch for the Zulu people living in South Africa. After the queen's death, different factions emerged within the royal family and challenged Misuzulu's claim to the throne. Zwelithini’s daughters from his first wife claimed signatures on the will were forged. Their mother, at the time sought a judicial ruling that her marriage in 1969 under civil law to the late king should take precedence over any traditional unions. As a result, 49-year-old Misuzulu had to wait over 15 months until August 2022 when he was eventually crowned in an elaborate ceremony. Following the traditional ceremony, Ramaphosa conducted a state ceremony two months later where Misuzulu was given a certificate of recognition in front of thousands. Under South African law, a new king is given official recognition by the president which paves the way for him to be treated like a constitutional monarch. Ramaphosa's endorsement did not go down well with Misuzulu's older brother, Prince Simakade who went to the court and argued that the president's official recognition of his younger half-brother as the monarch was rushed and failed to follow proper traditional and legal procedures. Under Zulu custom, the eldest son does not automatically become king, and there have been vicious power struggles for the throne in the past as well. Also read | Thousands of men and women in South Africa celebrate the coronation of new Zulu king Even before the fight for the throne reached its crescendo, Simakade said his candidature for the throne was constantly being undermined by Misuzulu's men. In 2021, Simakade said a statement attributed to him, purportedly saying he would not challenge his brother, King Misuzulu, was “misunderstood or deliberately distorted”. “Notwithstanding my clear and unambiguous position, stated in my statement, circumstances have compelled me to repeat what I previously said, namely that if the Zulu royal family - which as you may know has the exclusive jurisdiction and right to appoint the heir to the throne - were to nominate and appoint me, I would not dishonour its wishes," said Prince Simakade. “I further stated that, if someone other than me were to be duly nominated and appointed I will accept that decision, and pledge my full and unreserved support for him,” he said. Also read | Who was Mangosuthu Buthelezi? South African apartheid-era politician and Zulu prince who died at 95 Who is with whom? The fight for the throne has become a political battle as well. South Africa's third biggest political party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has put its weight behind Misuzulu. "King, my undisputed King. Bayede [Hail the King]," said Julius Malema, the leader of EFF. Meanwhile, Prince Simakade's supporters are confident that the court ruling is the first step in helping him eventually become the king of Zulu. Watch | South African court rules government’s recognition of Zulu king unlawful × Who are Zulus? The Zulu nation is the largest ethnic group in South Africa with an estimated 12 million Zulu-speaking people, predominantly in the KwaZulu-Natal region. Zulu kings are the descendants of King Shaka, a figure respected even in modern Africa, for uniting a sizable portion of the country as the Zulu nation and leading it in the brutal fight against the British colonisers. The royal family has no formal government powers but upholds Zulu tradition and controls millions of hectares of land through a trust. Monarchs also receive public funds and have significant political influence. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Zulu king's coronation deemed unlawful by South African court

<p>Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh hit rapid half-centuries for India but South Africa chased down an adjusted target to win the second Twenty20 international by five wickets at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Tuesday.</p>

<p>India, sent in to bat, were 180 for seven when rain ended the innings with three balls remaining in their 20 overs.</p>

<p>After a delay of almost an hour, South Africa were set to make 152 off 15 overs.</p>

<p>Led by a hard-hit 49 off 27 balls by opening batsman Reeza Hendricks, South Africa won with seven balls to spare. They took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after the first match in Durban was rained off.</p>

<p>South African captain Aiden Markram admitted that the conditions favoured his team. Rain fell in the lead-up to the match before returning at the end of the Indian innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The second bit of rain helped us. The ball skidded on a bit and also affected the outfield," said Markram.</p>

<p>Indian captain Suryakumar hit 56 off 36 balls and Singh was unbeaten with a career-best 68 off 39 deliveries.</p>

<p>Suryakumar went out to bat with the total on six for two after two overs. Both openers, Yashavi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, were dismissed without scoring.</p>

<p>The precarious situation did not deter the captain and Tilak Varma (29) from going on the attack against some erratic bowling. They added 49 off 25 balls.</p>

<p>Suryakumar and Singh then put on 70 off 49 balls.</p>

<p>"That's the brand of cricket we want to play, whatever the situation," said Suryakumar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Markram said the Indian assault meant he had to be strategic with the way he handled the bowlers, with player of the match Tabraiz Shamsi bowling his left-arm wrist spin in three spells to take one for 18, easily the most economical figures of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Shammy bowled incredibly well," said Markham.</p>

<p>Gerald Coetzee took three for 32, taking wickets with what proved to be the last two balls of the Indian innings.</p>

<p>Mohammed Siraj was walking out to face the hat-trick delivery when the umpires took the players off the field.</p>

<p><strong>Brief scores:</strong></p>

<p>India 180-7 in 19.3 overs (S. Yadav 56, R. Singh 68 not out; G. Coetzee 3-32).</p>

<p>South Africa 154-5 in 13.5 overs (R. Hendricks 49, A. Markram 30; M. Kumar 2-34).</p>

<p>Result: South Africa won by five wickets (DLS Method).</p>

<p>Series: South Africa lead the three-match series 1-0.</p>

<p>Toss: South Africa.</p>

<p>Remaining match:</p>

<p>December 17, Johannesburg</p>


Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh hit rapid half-centuries for India but South Africa chased down an adjusted target to win the second Twenty20 international by five wickets at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Tuesday.

Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh hit rapid half-centuries for India but South Africa chased down an adjusted target to win the second Twenty20 international by five wickets at St George's Park in Gqeberha on Tuesday. India, sent in to bat, were 180 for seven when rain ended the innings with three balls remaining in their 20 overs. After a delay of almost an hour, South Africa were set to make 152 off 15 overs. Led by a hard-hit 49 off 27 balls by opening batsman Reeza Hendricks, South Africa won with seven balls to spare. They took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after the first match in Durban was rained off. South African captain Aiden Markram admitted that the conditions favoured his team. Rain fell in the lead-up to the match before returning at the end of the Indian innings. "The second bit of rain helped us. The ball skidded on a bit and also affected the outfield," said Markram. Indian captain Suryakumar hit 56 off 36 balls and Singh was unbeaten with a career-best 68 off 39 deliveries. Suryakumar went out to bat with the total on six for two after two overs. Both openers, Yashavi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, were dismissed without scoring. The precarious situation did not deter the captain and Tilak Varma (29) from going on the attack against some erratic bowling. They added 49 off 25 balls. Suryakumar and Singh then put on 70 off 49 balls. "That's the brand of cricket we want to play, whatever the situation," said Suryakumar. Markram said the Indian assault meant he had to be strategic with the way he handled the bowlers, with player of the match Tabraiz Shamsi bowling his left-arm wrist spin in three spells to take one for 18, easily the most economical figures of the match. "Shammy bowled incredibly well," said Markham. Gerald Coetzee took three for 32, taking wickets with what proved to be the last two balls of the Indian innings. Mohammed Siraj was walking out to face the hat-trick delivery when the umpires took the players off the field. Brief scores: India 180-7 in 19.3 overs (S. Yadav 56, R. Singh 68 not out; G. Coetzee 3-32). South Africa 154-5 in 13.5 overs (R. Hendricks 49, A. Markram 30; M. Kumar 2-34). Result: South Africa won by five wickets (DLS Method). Series: South Africa lead the three-match series 1-0. Toss: South Africa. Remaining match: December 17, Johannesburg

South Africa reach rain-reduced target to beat India

<p>South Africa legend AB de Villiers has made some shocking revelations about his early international retirement in 2018. In May 2018, while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, De Villiers shocked the entire cricketing fraternity as he announced to step aside from international cricket.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, De Villiers opened up on his retirement call and revealed that he played the last few years in international cricket with a detached retina. "My youngster accidentally kicked me on my eye with his heel. I started really losing vision in the right eye. When I got the surgery done the doctor actually asked me, 'How in the world did you play cricket like this?'. Luckily my left eye did a decent job for the last two years of my career," De Villiers told Wisden Cricket Monthly.</p>

<p>In addition, De Villiers revealed that in the two years leading to his retirement from all forms of the game, in 2021, the swashbuckling batter had been in the dark. "Covid certainly played a role, there's no doubt about it. From an international perspective, the 2015 World Cup hurt big time. It took me a while to get over that and then, when I got back into the side and I was ready to commit, I didn't feel the same culture that I really needed at that time."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mediator-ricky-ponting-would-like-to-bury-hatchet-between-warner-and-johnson-667347">'Mediator' Ricky Ponting would like to bury hatchet between Warner and Johnson</a></strong></p>

<p>De Villiers had expressed interest in turning up for South Africa for the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales. However, the offer was made just a day before South Africa's squad announcement and, hence, it went unanswered by Cricket South Africa (CSA) as they backed the De Villiers-less squad for the marquee event. Under Faf du Plessis, the Proteas failed to enter the semi-finals in the 2019 edition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ABD reflected on that time and further opined, "I often found myself thinking, I don't know, eh? Could this be the end of my career? I didn't even really want to play IPL or anything else. I got away from everything in 2018 and then decided to push one more time with a bit of Test cricket, to try and beat India and Australia over here, and then I'll call it. I didn't want any spotlight on me. I just wanted to say, 'I had a great time, thank you very much'."</p>

<p>The former South African captain ended a glorious run in international cricket with 8,765 Test runs in 114 matches and 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs. In T20Is, he returned with 1,672 in 78 games, at a strike rate of 135.16. He ended his international run with 47 hundreds overall.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is unbelievable to think that De Villiers continued to play in various T20 competitions post-international retirement with a detached retina. He played in the IPL, for Virat Kohli-starrer RCB, till the 2021 season before pulling out from the game completely.</p>


South Africa legend AB de Villiers has made some shocking revelations about his early international retirement in 2018. In May 2018, while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, De Villiers shocked the entire cricketing fraternity as he announced to step aside from international cricket.

South Africa legend AB de Villiers has made some shocking revelations about his early international retirement in 2018. In May 2018, while playing for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL, De Villiers shocked the entire cricketing fraternity as he announced to step aside from international cricket. Recently, De Villiers opened up on his retirement call and revealed that he played the last few years in international cricket with a detached retina. "My youngster accidentally kicked me on my eye with his heel. I started really losing vision in the right eye. When I got the surgery done the doctor actually asked me, 'How in the world did you play cricket like this?'. Luckily my left eye did a decent job for the last two years of my career," De Villiers told Wisden Cricket Monthly. In addition, De Villiers revealed that in the two years leading to his retirement from all forms of the game, in 2021, the swashbuckling batter had been in the dark. "Covid certainly played a role, there's no doubt about it. From an international perspective, the 2015 World Cup hurt big time. It took me a while to get over that and then, when I got back into the side and I was ready to commit, I didn't feel the same culture that I really needed at that time." Also read: 'Mediator' Ricky Ponting would like to bury hatchet between Warner and Johnson De Villiers had expressed interest in turning up for South Africa for the 2019 ODI World Cup, in England and Wales. However, the offer was made just a day before South Africa's squad announcement and, hence, it went unanswered by Cricket South Africa (CSA) as they backed the De Villiers-less squad for the marquee event. Under Faf du Plessis, the Proteas failed to enter the semi-finals in the 2019 edition. ABD reflected on that time and further opined, "I often found myself thinking, I don't know, eh? Could this be the end of my career? I didn't even really want to play IPL or anything else. I got away from everything in 2018 and then decided to push one more time with a bit of Test cricket, to try and beat India and Australia over here, and then I'll call it. I didn't want any spotlight on me. I just wanted to say, 'I had a great time, thank you very much'." The former South African captain ended a glorious run in international cricket with 8,765 Test runs in 114 matches and 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs. In T20Is, he returned with 1,672 in 78 games, at a strike rate of 135.16. He ended his international run with 47 hundreds overall. It is unbelievable to think that De Villiers continued to play in various T20 competitions post-international retirement with a detached retina. He played in the IPL, for Virat Kohli-starrer RCB, till the 2021 season before pulling out from the game completely.

Started losing vision...: AB de Villiers reveals shocking details behind early international retirement

December 5 was the death anniversary of South Africa's first black President, Nelson Mandela. As the world remembers the anti-apartheid leader 20 years after his death, we talk about a key international cause which holds immense relevance even today.

Nelson Mandela death anniversary: Palestine state was key international cause for Mandela

<p>World Cup captain Temba Bavuma will miss two white-ball series against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Monday in naming squads for the multi-format tour. Bavuma as well as fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will play no part in the limited overs series in order to prepare for two World Test Championship matches, starting in Centurion on December 26.</p>

<p>Fast bowlers Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen will only play in the first two T20 internationals before returning to their franchises to play in domestic four-day cricket ahead of the Test series. One-day coach Rob Walter said the decision was made in consultation with Test coach Shukri Conrad.</p>

<p>"We have a busy summer ahead starting with the T20Is and then ODIs against India and we have therefore taken the decision to omit several of our senior players," said Walter.&nbsp; "This decision was taken together with coach Shukri as we place emphasis on the red-ball leg of the tour, meaning they will instead be preparing for the Test series by playing domestic cricket."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kylian-mbappe-vitinha-lead-paris-saint-german-over-le-havre-after-keeper-shown-red-flag-665971">Kylian Mbappe, Vitinha lead Paris Saint German over Le Havre after keeper shown red flag</a></strong></p>

<p>Conrad said: "It is the start of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle and that itself is a huge incentive for everyone. We want to try and ensure we make a strong start to this sequence here at home against one of the best teams in the world." The Test squad includes three uncapped players in Durham and Western Province batsman David Bedingham, left-arm fast bowler Nandre Burger and batsman Tristan Stubbs.</p>

<p>Burger is set to make his international debut after being named in all three squads. Another newcomer is all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana, who was selected for the one-day series. The first T20 international will be played in Durban on Sunday. There will be three T20 internationals and three&nbsp;one-day internationals. India will also be without key players for the white-ball matches, with regular captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli rested ahead of the Test matches.</p>

<p><strong>South African squads:</strong></p>

<p><strong>T20 internationals:</strong>&nbsp;Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Lizaad Williams</p>

<p><strong>One-day internationals:</strong> Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Mihlali Mpongwana, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wkt), Lizaad Williams</p>

<p><strong>Tests:</strong> Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wkt)&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Fixtures:</strong></p>

<p>December 10, first T20 international, Durban</p>

<p>December 12, second T20 international, Gqeberha</p>

<p>December 14, third T20 int6ernational, Johannesburg</p>

<p>December 17, first one-day international, Johannesburg</p>

<p>December 19, second one-day international, Gqeberha</p>

<p>December 21, third one-day international, Paarl</p>

<p>December 26-30, first Test match, Centurion</p>

<p>January 3-7, second Test match, Cape Town</p>


World Cup captain Temba Bavuma will miss two white-ball series against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Monday in naming squads for the multi-format tour.

World Cup captain Temba Bavuma will miss two white-ball series against India, Cricket South Africa announced on Monday in naming squads for the multi-format tour. Bavuma as well as fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will play no part in the limited overs series in order to prepare for two World Test Championship matches, starting in Centurion on December 26. Fast bowlers Gerald Coetzee, Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen will only play in the first two T20 internationals before returning to their franchises to play in domestic four-day cricket ahead of the Test series. One-day coach Rob Walter said the decision was made in consultation with Test coach Shukri Conrad. "We have a busy summer ahead starting with the T20Is and then ODIs against India and we have therefore taken the decision to omit several of our senior players," said Walter. "This decision was taken together with coach Shukri as we place emphasis on the red-ball leg of the tour, meaning they will instead be preparing for the Test series by playing domestic cricket." Also Read: Kylian Mbappe, Vitinha lead Paris Saint German over Le Havre after keeper shown red flag Conrad said: "It is the start of a new ICC World Test Championship cycle and that itself is a huge incentive for everyone. We want to try and ensure we make a strong start to this sequence here at home against one of the best teams in the world." The Test squad includes three uncapped players in Durham and Western Province batsman David Bedingham, left-arm fast bowler Nandre Burger and batsman Tristan Stubbs. Burger is set to make his international debut after being named in all three squads. Another newcomer is all-rounder Mihlali Mpongwana, who was selected for the one-day series. The first T20 international will be played in Durban on Sunday. There will be three T20 internationals and three one-day internationals. India will also be without key players for the white-ball matches, with regular captain Rohit Sharma and former captain Virat Kohli rested ahead of the Test matches. South African squads: T20 internationals: Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Lizaad Williams One-day internationals: Aiden Markram (captain), Ottniel Baartman, Matthew Breetzke, Nandre Burger, Tony de Zorzi, Reeza Hendricks, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Mihlali Mpongwana, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Andile Phehlukwayo, Tabraiz Shamsi, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wkt), Lizaad Williams Tests: Temba Bavuma (captain), David Bedingham, Nandre Burger, Gerald Coetzee, Tony de Zorzi, Dean Elgar, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wkt) Fixtures: December 10, first T20 international, Durban December 12, second T20 international, Gqeberha December 14, third T20 int6ernational, Johannesburg December 17, first one-day international, Johannesburg December 19, second one-day international, Gqeberha December 21, third one-day international, Paarl December 26-30, first Test match, Centurion January 3-7, second Test match, Cape Town

Proteas captain Temba Bavuma to miss white-ball series against India, says Cricket South Africa

<p>World Rugby said Monday it had launched an official investigation into the allegation that South Africa's Bongi Mbonambi directed a racial slur at Tom Curry of England during the Springboks' victory in the Rugby World Cup semi-final. Mbonambi, 32, is alleged to have called England backrow forward Curry "you white (followed by an expletive)" in the first half of Saturday's 16-15 victory.</p>

<p>"World Rugby takes all allegations of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously," the sport's governing body said in a statement on Monday, five days before South Africa face New Zealand in the World Cup final.&nbsp;"We can confirm that we are formally reviewing the allegation made by England’s Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final on Saturday.</p>

<p>"World Rugby will not be making further comment until the conclusion of the process."Curry approached referee Ben O'Keeffe about half an hour into the hard-fought match in Paris to report the alleged comment and asked what he should do in response.</p>

<p>"Nothing, please. I'll be on it," replied O'Keeffe.Curry was asked after the game whether Mbonambi, who also appeared to refuse to shake the England player's hand at the end of the match, had said something he had taken issue with.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-boston-celtics-claw-out-impressive-win-against-philadelphia-76ers-despite-jayson-tatums-ejection-665350">Boston Celtics claw out impressive win against Philadelphia 76ers despite Jayson Tatum's ejection</a></strong></p>

<p>"Yeah," replied the 25-year-old, before adding that "it does not need to be talked about".South Africa Rugby said on Sunday they would look into the matter."We are aware of the allegation, which we take very seriously, and are reviewing the available evidence," it said."We will engage with Bongi if anything is found to substantiate the claim."</p>

<p>England coach Steve Borthwick declined to comment on the matter on Sunday.Verbal abuse in rugby is rarely penalised, although England prop Joe Marler and South African Jacques Potgieter have been punished in the past. Marler received a two match-ban for remarks addressed to Wales's Samson Lee in 2016 and Potgieter was fined for an on-field homophobic slur in a Super Rugby game in 2015.The Springboks, though, will be nervously awaiting the outcome of World Rugby's investigation.</p>

<p>Mbonambi is the Springboks' only specialist hooker due to Malcom Marx's tournament-ending injury, although converted back row forward Deon Fourie has covered from the bench.They can therefore ill afford to be without Mbonambi, who was man of the match in the quarter-final win over hosts France, for Saturday's final against fellow three-time champions New Zealand at the Stade de France.</p>

<p>All Blacks defence coach Scott McLeod acknowledged as such in a press conference on Monday."If anything came of that (World Rugby process) for them, I imagine that would be a massive dent for them," said McLeod."He is a leader of their team. When Siya (Kolisi) goes off, then he becomes captain. So I imagine that would really impact them."</p>

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World Rugby said Monday it had launched an official investigation into the allegation that South Africa's Bongi Mbonambi directed a racial slur at Tom Curry of England during the Springboks' victory in the Rugby World Cup semi-final.

World Rugby said Monday it had launched an official investigation into the allegation that South Africa's Bongi Mbonambi directed a racial slur at Tom Curry of England during the Springboks' victory in the Rugby World Cup semi-final. Mbonambi, 32, is alleged to have called England backrow forward Curry "you white (followed by an expletive)" in the first half of Saturday's 16-15 victory. "World Rugby takes all allegations of discriminatory behaviour extremely seriously," the sport's governing body said in a statement on Monday, five days before South Africa face New Zealand in the World Cup final. "We can confirm that we are formally reviewing the allegation made by England’s Tom Curry in relation to the use of discriminatory language during the England versus South Africa Rugby World Cup 2023 semi-final on Saturday. "World Rugby will not be making further comment until the conclusion of the process."Curry approached referee Ben O'Keeffe about half an hour into the hard-fought match in Paris to report the alleged comment and asked what he should do in response. "Nothing, please. I'll be on it," replied O'Keeffe.Curry was asked after the game whether Mbonambi, who also appeared to refuse to shake the England player's hand at the end of the match, had said something he had taken issue with. Also Read: Boston Celtics claw out impressive win against Philadelphia 76ers despite Jayson Tatum's ejection "Yeah," replied the 25-year-old, before adding that "it does not need to be talked about".South Africa Rugby said on Sunday they would look into the matter."We are aware of the allegation, which we take very seriously, and are reviewing the available evidence," it said."We will engage with Bongi if anything is found to substantiate the claim." England coach Steve Borthwick declined to comment on the matter on Sunday.Verbal abuse in rugby is rarely penalised, although England prop Joe Marler and South African Jacques Potgieter have been punished in the past. Marler received a two match-ban for remarks addressed to Wales's Samson Lee in 2016 and Potgieter was fined for an on-field homophobic slur in a Super Rugby game in 2015.The Springboks, though, will be nervously awaiting the outcome of World Rugby's investigation. Mbonambi is the Springboks' only specialist hooker due to Malcom Marx's tournament-ending injury, although converted back row forward Deon Fourie has covered from the bench.They can therefore ill afford to be without Mbonambi, who was man of the match in the quarter-final win over hosts France, for Saturday's final against fellow three-time champions New Zealand at the Stade de France. All Blacks defence coach Scott McLeod acknowledged as such in a press conference on Monday."If anything came of that (World Rugby process) for them, I imagine that would be a massive dent for them," said McLeod."He is a leader of their team. When Siya (Kolisi) goes off, then he becomes captain. So I imagine that would really impact them." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Rugby launches official investigation against Bongi Mbonnambi

<p>The All Blacks are both "mentally and physically" ready for Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against old rivals South Africa, according to defence coach Scott McLeod. New Zealand outclassed Argentina 44-6 in the semi-finals to set up the showdown at the Stade de France against the Springboks, last-gasp 16-15 victors over England in their last-four clash.</p>

<p>As each side stares down the barrel of a seventh and final match in France, tagged on to a series of warm-up matches, McLeod insisted there was little sign of fatigue in the All Blacks camp."There's the bodies but looking at how we're tracking, we've got 33 fit men.</p>

<p>"A number of those guys have come back from injury lately so they haven't felt the full wear and tear of the whole tournament and they're actually feeling quite fresh."</p>

<p>Added to that, he said, was the belief garnered from not only the semi-final but also the pulsating 28-24 quarter-final victory over Ireland.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-rugby-launches-official-investigation-against-bongi-mbonnambi-650343">Also Read:&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-nick-kyrgios-thanks-andy-murray-for-helping-him-deal-with-mental-health-issues-665148">Tennis: Nick Kyrgios thanks Andy Murray for helping him deal with mental health issues</a></strong></p>

<p>"When parts of your game works through the quarter-finals and semi-finals, you get belief out of that. It's also mental freshness. It's not something that drags you down. So both mentally and physically we're ready for this. We're quite excited already. We'll probably just have to hold the boys back a little bit."</p>

<h2>Building belief&nbsp;</h2>

<p>McLeod, credited with producing the defensive blueprint that helped the All Blacks snuff out then-world number one team Ireland in the quarters, added: "A lot of aspects of our game are working and that builds belief. "It's something that we've been working on quite a while and to see it work under those moments in quarters and semis, it's very pleasing and it's just about harnessing that now and making sure we go again."</p>

<p>The Springboks will be a tough proposition that would offer up a never-say-die attitude, as shown in the dramatic victory over England, said McLeod, capped 10 times by the All Blacks as a centre.</p>

<p>"It's always their mentality. They come from a country where they're very hardened and they know how to stay in the fight and to win the fight. "They've shown that over many years and showed it in the last World Cup as well. Not much of their DNA has changed.</p>

<p>McLeod added that the record 35-7 defeat South Africa inflicted on New Zealand in a pre-tournament warm-up at Twickenham had retained some relevance.</p>

<p>But it was "not so much on a motivational aspect, but more in scenarios: How do we respond? So we took a lot of learning out of that particularly when we went down to 13 men".McLeod said it would be "no secret" that both teams would be focusing on the opening quarter.</p>

<p>"We need to be extremely accurate show the pitches that we want to show and be able to apply pressure at the same time," he said."The Boks have always come out and wanted to start well."</p>

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The All Blacks are both "mentally and physically" ready for Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against old rivals South Africa, according to defence coach Scott McLeod.

The All Blacks are both "mentally and physically" ready for Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against old rivals South Africa, according to defence coach Scott McLeod. New Zealand outclassed Argentina 44-6 in the semi-finals to set up the showdown at the Stade de France against the Springboks, last-gasp 16-15 victors over England in their last-four clash. As each side stares down the barrel of a seventh and final match in France, tagged on to a series of warm-up matches, McLeod insisted there was little sign of fatigue in the All Blacks camp."There's the bodies but looking at how we're tracking, we've got 33 fit men. "A number of those guys have come back from injury lately so they haven't felt the full wear and tear of the whole tournament and they're actually feeling quite fresh." Added to that, he said, was the belief garnered from not only the semi-final but also the pulsating 28-24 quarter-final victory over Ireland. Also Read: Tennis: Nick Kyrgios thanks Andy Murray for helping him deal with mental health issues "When parts of your game works through the quarter-finals and semi-finals, you get belief out of that. It's also mental freshness. It's not something that drags you down. So both mentally and physically we're ready for this. We're quite excited already. We'll probably just have to hold the boys back a little bit." Building belief McLeod, credited with producing the defensive blueprint that helped the All Blacks snuff out then-world number one team Ireland in the quarters, added: "A lot of aspects of our game are working and that builds belief. "It's something that we've been working on quite a while and to see it work under those moments in quarters and semis, it's very pleasing and it's just about harnessing that now and making sure we go again." The Springboks will be a tough proposition that would offer up a never-say-die attitude, as shown in the dramatic victory over England, said McLeod, capped 10 times by the All Blacks as a centre. "It's always their mentality. They come from a country where they're very hardened and they know how to stay in the fight and to win the fight. "They've shown that over many years and showed it in the last World Cup as well. Not much of their DNA has changed. McLeod added that the record 35-7 defeat South Africa inflicted on New Zealand in a pre-tournament warm-up at Twickenham had retained some relevance. But it was "not so much on a motivational aspect, but more in scenarios: How do we respond? So we took a lot of learning out of that particularly when we went down to 13 men".McLeod said it would be "no secret" that both teams would be focusing on the opening quarter. "We need to be extremely accurate show the pitches that we want to show and be able to apply pressure at the same time," he said."The Boks have always come out and wanted to start well." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby: New Zealand all set to face South Africa in World Cup final

<p>A slew of New Zealand greats will don the&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks&nbsp;jersey for the last time in the&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final against South Africa and the players left to carry on are determined they will bow out with the trophy, hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho said. Locks Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick, scrumhalf Aaron Smith and hooker Dane Coles are set to retire from test&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;after the decider, while playmaker Beauden Barrett will head to Japan and may not feature for the&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks&nbsp;again.</p>

<p>"There are a few legends of this team, it’s their last week being&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks," Taukei'aho told New Zealand media in Paris.</p>

<p>"I’m sure for them it’s&nbsp;all&nbsp;about what's best for the team this week. We'll be trying to&nbsp;send&nbsp;them&nbsp;off&nbsp;the way they deserve, which is with a victory."</p>

<p>Having signed a contract extension to play in New Zealand until 2027, 26-year-old Taukei'aho will continue on, likely to be a big part of Scott Robertson's plans when the new coach succeeds&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks&nbsp;boss Ian Foster after France.Taukei'aho's immediate focus will be on retaining his place in the&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks' matchday squad for Saturday's final in Paris.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-legend-rafael-nadal-announces-return-date-following-lengthy-injury-lay-off-665140">Tennis legend Rafael Nadal announces return date following lengthy injury layoff</a></strong></p>

<p>Taukei'aho ran&nbsp;off&nbsp;the bench in the 44-6 defeat of Argentina in the semi-finals, relieving starting hooker Codie Taylor.Veteran Coles was picked in the reserves to back up Taylor in the tight quarter-final&nbsp;win&nbsp;over Ireland.</p>

<p>Coles, who already has a&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;gold medal as part of the championship-winning&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks&nbsp;in England in 2015, could yet deny Taukei'aho a maiden&nbsp;World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;final appearance.However, Taukei'aho had only kind words for the battle-scarred 36-year-old who took him under his&nbsp;wing when he made his first&nbsp;All&nbsp;Blacks&nbsp;squad and helped him make it at test level.</p>

<p>"It was quite funny this week. At the start I was a bit emotional. I’m like, 'Ah, it’s the last week with Grandad'," he said."We'll leave the reflecting until afterwards. I’m sure we’ll have a few quiet ones and talk about how much he developed me as a player ... but not just as a&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;player, as a human being, too.</p>

<p>"He’s a top man. Whoever gets the nod, we back 100% to get the job done and the job of the person not in the 23 is to prepare them the best they can."Nothing changes this week."</p>

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A slew of New Zealand greats will don the All Blacks jersey for the last time in the World Cup final against South Africa and the players left to carry on are determined they will bow out with the trophy, hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho said.

A slew of New Zealand greats will don the All Blacks jersey for the last time in the World Cup final against South Africa and the players left to carry on are determined they will bow out with the trophy, hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho said. Locks Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick, scrumhalf Aaron Smith and hooker Dane Coles are set to retire from test rugby after the decider, while playmaker Beauden Barrett will head to Japan and may not feature for the All Blacks again. "There are a few legends of this team, it’s their last week being All Blacks," Taukei'aho told New Zealand media in Paris. "I’m sure for them it’s all about what's best for the team this week. We'll be trying to send them off the way they deserve, which is with a victory." Having signed a contract extension to play in New Zealand until 2027, 26-year-old Taukei'aho will continue on, likely to be a big part of Scott Robertson's plans when the new coach succeeds All Blacks boss Ian Foster after France.Taukei'aho's immediate focus will be on retaining his place in the All Blacks' matchday squad for Saturday's final in Paris. Also Read: Tennis legend Rafael Nadal announces return date following lengthy injury layoff Taukei'aho ran off the bench in the 44-6 defeat of Argentina in the semi-finals, relieving starting hooker Codie Taylor.Veteran Coles was picked in the reserves to back up Taylor in the tight quarter-final win over Ireland. Coles, who already has a World Cup gold medal as part of the championship-winning All Blacks in England in 2015, could yet deny Taukei'aho a maiden World Cup final appearance.However, Taukei'aho had only kind words for the battle-scarred 36-year-old who took him under his wing when he made his first All Blacks squad and helped him make it at test level. "It was quite funny this week. At the start I was a bit emotional. I’m like, 'Ah, it’s the last week with Grandad'," he said."We'll leave the reflecting until afterwards. I’m sure we’ll have a few quiet ones and talk about how much he developed me as a player ... but not just as a rugby player, as a human being, too. "He’s a top man. Whoever gets the nod, we back 100% to get the job done and the job of the person not in the 23 is to prepare them the best they can."Nothing changes this week." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup final: All Blacks look to send off 'legends' with win over South Africa

<p>The World Cup-winning Springboks began a four-day homecoming tour in Pretoria on Thursday, with President Cyril Ramaphosa hailing the team for uniting a country with a divisive past. South Africa edged arch-rivals New Zealand 12-11 to achieve a record fourth title and their second in a row in a gripping final last Saturday in Paris.&nbsp;With gold medals hanging from their necks, the players arrived at the Union Buildings, the seat of the government, on a yellow open-top bus and shook hands with Ramaphosa.</p>

<p>"Saturday night, you strode off the pitch of victory and passed into legend," said Ramaphosa, who this week declared a public holiday on December 15 to celebrate the win.&nbsp;"In doing so you have lifted the spirits of an entire nation and filled us with pride. You have united the South African people."&nbsp;</p>

<p>After posing for a photo with the president holding the Webb Ellis Cup, the players hopped back on the bus and began a tour of the capital. They were greeted by thousands of dancing people who lined the streets to cheer a team that has captured the hearts of a nation but was once reviled as a symbol of apartheid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are very diverse, just like you are outside there and we just wanted to show that diversity is our strength," said Siya Kolisi, the Springboks' first black Test captain, who dedicated the trophy to "the people of South Africa". The players, all wearing yellow t-shirts emblazoned with the team's motto "Stronger Together", waved to the crowd and drank beer as they drove through the streets.</p>

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<p>There were a few notable absentees, with director of rugby Rassie Erasmus and fan-favourite Faf de Klerk, the team's blonde-haired scrum half, among those who couldn't attend the celebrations.&nbsp;But that didn't dampen the mood.&nbsp;After Pretoria, the Springboks were welcomed by loud cheers as they arrived in Johannesburg where they made a stop at the headquarters of one of the squad's main sponsors.&nbsp;They were later due in Soweto, a township that used to be a hotbed of anti-apartheid activism.</p>

<p>For 90 years Springbok selectors chose only white players, with black and mixed-race athletes sequestered in separate leagues.That slowly started to change after the advent of democracy in 1994, with Nelson Mandela famously rallying behind the team that won its first World Cup in 1995.</p>

<p>In recent years, Kolisi, 32, has been pivotal in bringing many young, black South Africans closer to the sport. The latest success brought joy to a nation that is still described by the World Bank as the most unequal in the world and battling unemployment, electricity, water and crime crises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The performance of the Springboks...has reminded us that even amidst our many challenges, there is always room for optimism and hope," said Ramaphosa.&nbsp;The Springboks will go to Cape Town on Friday, Durban on Saturday and East London on Sunday.</p>


The World Cup-winning Springboks began a four-day homecoming tour in Pretoria on Thursday, with President Cyril Ramaphosa hailing the team for uniting a country with a divisive past.

The World Cup-winning Springboks began a four-day homecoming tour in Pretoria on Thursday, with President Cyril Ramaphosa hailing the team for uniting a country with a divisive past. South Africa edged arch-rivals New Zealand 12-11 to achieve a record fourth title and their second in a row in a gripping final last Saturday in Paris. With gold medals hanging from their necks, the players arrived at the Union Buildings, the seat of the government, on a yellow open-top bus and shook hands with Ramaphosa. "Saturday night, you strode off the pitch of victory and passed into legend," said Ramaphosa, who this week declared a public holiday on December 15 to celebrate the win. "In doing so you have lifted the spirits of an entire nation and filled us with pride. You have united the South African people." After posing for a photo with the president holding the Webb Ellis Cup, the players hopped back on the bus and began a tour of the capital. They were greeted by thousands of dancing people who lined the streets to cheer a team that has captured the hearts of a nation but was once reviled as a symbol of apartheid. "We are very diverse, just like you are outside there and we just wanted to show that diversity is our strength," said Siya Kolisi, the Springboks' first black Test captain, who dedicated the trophy to "the people of South Africa". The players, all wearing yellow t-shirts emblazoned with the team's motto "Stronger Together", waved to the crowd and drank beer as they drove through the streets. Also Read: Spaniard Carlos Alcaraz shines in Mexico City as fans get glimpse of world class tennis There were a few notable absentees, with director of rugby Rassie Erasmus and fan-favourite Faf de Klerk, the team's blonde-haired scrum half, among those who couldn't attend the celebrations. But that didn't dampen the mood. After Pretoria, the Springboks were welcomed by loud cheers as they arrived in Johannesburg where they made a stop at the headquarters of one of the squad's main sponsors. They were later due in Soweto, a township that used to be a hotbed of anti-apartheid activism. For 90 years Springbok selectors chose only white players, with black and mixed-race athletes sequestered in separate leagues.That slowly started to change after the advent of democracy in 1994, with Nelson Mandela famously rallying behind the team that won its first World Cup in 1995. In recent years, Kolisi, 32, has been pivotal in bringing many young, black South Africans closer to the sport. The latest success brought joy to a nation that is still described by the World Bank as the most unequal in the world and battling unemployment, electricity, water and crime crises. "The performance of the Springboks...has reminded us that even amidst our many challenges, there is always room for optimism and hope," said Ramaphosa. The Springboks will go to Cape Town on Friday, Durban on Saturday and East London on Sunday.

Rugby: President Ramaphosa hails South Africa's World Cup winning contingent in grand return

<p>Bhutan on Wednesday said it had given about 60 per cent of its entire population the first jab against Covid-19 since the Himalayan kingdom started an ambitious vaccination drive nine days ago.</p>

<p>The tiny nation wedged between India and China told AFP that 470,000 people out of 770,000 in total had been administered the first shot of a two-dose regime of the Covishield vaccine (Oxford Astrazeneca) donated by India.</p>

<p>Its rapid rollout puts Bhutan far ahead of other leading nations in reaching the 60-per cent mark, including Seychelles, Israel and the United Arab Emirates, according to AFP analysis.</p>

<p>When Bhutan's campaign launched on March 27, it set the speedy target of vaccinating 533,000 adults -- having excluded pregnant women, new mothers, people with certain health conditions and seriously ill patients -- in just one week.</p>

<p>However, the nation, famous for measuring gross national happiness, extended its deadline by several weeks.</p>

<p>A health ministry spokeswoman said that healthcare officers were now focusing on vaccinating those above 70 as well as disabled residents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country has recorded 896 Covid-19 infections and one death so far.</p>

<p>Israel has set the world's leading pace per capita for vaccinations in a two-dose regime, having already given both shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to more than half of its population.</p>


Bhutan on Wednesday said it had given about 60 per cent of its entire population the first jab against Covid-19 since the Himalayan kingdom started an ambitious vaccination drive nine days ago.

Bhutan on Wednesday said it had given about 60 per cent of its entire population the first jab against Covid-19 since the Himalayan kingdom started an ambitious vaccination drive nine days ago. The tiny nation wedged between India and China told AFP that 470,000 people out of 770,000 in total had been administered the first shot of a two-dose regime of the Covishield vaccine (Oxford Astrazeneca) donated by India. Its rapid rollout puts Bhutan far ahead of other leading nations in reaching the 60-per cent mark, including Seychelles, Israel and the United Arab Emirates, according to AFP analysis. When Bhutan's campaign launched on March 27, it set the speedy target of vaccinating 533,000 adults -- having excluded pregnant women, new mothers, people with certain health conditions and seriously ill patients -- in just one week. However, the nation, famous for measuring gross national happiness, extended its deadline by several weeks. A health ministry spokeswoman said that healthcare officers were now focusing on vaccinating those above 70 as well as disabled residents. The country has recorded 896 Covid-19 infections and one death so far. Israel has set the world's leading pace per capita for vaccinations in a two-dose regime, having already given both shots of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to more than half of its population.

Rugby: South Africa's Bongi Mbonambi cleared to play in World Cup final versus New Zealand

<p>South Africa defeated Pakistan on October 27 in an ODI World Cup 2023 match by one wicket. Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj helped their team win by scoring most precious runs with Maharaj hitting the winning four. Chasing 271, South Africa had a bit of scare after they lost nine wickets with 11 runs needed but eventually got home.</p>

<p>Speaking on the win, South Africa spinner Shamsi, who was at the crease with Maharaj, after the match, said, "Really happy, you know you played enough cricket as well to understand that sometimes it goes for you sometimes it doesn't so while it's going for me I'm happy to be able to contribute, you know to help the team win I didn't think I'll be able to put my pads on but it actually feels nice."</p>

<p>"The key was really holding your nerves in the end because it's so tempting when you see a spinner to play a big shot and try and finish it early," he added.</p>

<p>It was a big moment for South African players as they were able to defeat Pakistan for the first time in one of the seven World Cup meetings.</p>

<p>Pakistan kept taking wickets at regular interval despite scoring 270 as the bowlers put their heart out but the Proteas scampered over the line. The crushing defeat could lead Pakistan to the exit gate of the ongoing ODI World Cup.</p>

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<p>Pakistan was guilty of not scoring enough runs while batting first even with Shadab Khan and Saud Shakeel giving them hope of scoring 300 with 84-run partnership for the sixth wicket.</p>

<p>Nothing has gone right for Pakistan in this World Cup as they have lost four consecutive matches, only hope for them to make it to the top four is now to win their remaining three matches.</p>

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South Africa defeated Pakistan on October 27 in an ODI World Cup 2023 match by one wicket. Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj helped their team win by scoring most precious runs with Maharaj hitting the winning four.

South Africa defeated Pakistan on October 27 in an ODI World Cup 2023 match by one wicket. Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj helped their team win by scoring most precious runs with Maharaj hitting the winning four. Chasing 271, South Africa had a bit of scare after they lost nine wickets with 11 runs needed but eventually got home. Speaking on the win, South Africa spinner Shamsi, who was at the crease with Maharaj, after the match, said, "Really happy, you know you played enough cricket as well to understand that sometimes it goes for you sometimes it doesn't so while it's going for me I'm happy to be able to contribute, you know to help the team win I didn't think I'll be able to put my pads on but it actually feels nice." "The key was really holding your nerves in the end because it's so tempting when you see a spinner to play a big shot and try and finish it early," he added. It was a big moment for South African players as they were able to defeat Pakistan for the first time in one of the seven World Cup meetings. Pakistan kept taking wickets at regular interval despite scoring 270 as the bowlers put their heart out but the Proteas scampered over the line. The crushing defeat could lead Pakistan to the exit gate of the ongoing ODI World Cup. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks Pakistan was guilty of not scoring enough runs while batting first even with Shadab Khan and Saud Shakeel giving them hope of scoring 300 with 84-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Nothing has gone right for Pakistan in this World Cup as they have lost four consecutive matches, only hope for them to make it to the top four is now to win their remaining three matches. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: 'Didn't think I'll be..,' says Tabraiz Shamsi post helping South Africa win vs Pakistan

<p>South Africa's Erik van Rooyen, inspired by a sick friend, rolled in a long eagle putt at the final hole to grab an emotional two-shot triumph Sunday (Nov 5) in the US PGA Tour World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico.&nbsp;He played the last five holes in five-under, playing the back nine in eight-under 28 on the way to a nine-under par 63 and a 27-under par total of 261 at Cardonal at Diamante in Los Cabos, the first Tiger Woods-designed course to be used for a PGA Tour event. His walk-off eagle gave him a two-shot triumph over third-round co-leaders Matt Kuchar and Camilo Villegas.</p>

<p>"I was calm because there's bigger stuff in life than&nbsp;golf," said van Rooyen, breaking down in tears as he explained that dear friend Jon Trasamar is battling cancer. "Every shot out there today was for him," van Rooyen said.</p>

<p>"When you're playing for something bigger than winning some silly trophy it puts it in perspective and at the end of the day whether I won here or I lost here it really didn't matter."</p>

<p>One back to start the day, van Rooyen shook off an opening bogey, nabbing birdies at the second and sixth to get himself on track. He added three straight birdies at the 10th, 11th and 12th and another at 14 before birdies at 16 and 17 saw him pull level with overnight co-leader Kuchar atop the leaderboard at 25-under.</p>

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<p>Kuchar started the day tied with Villegas after a rollercoaster round that included an eagle and a quadruple bogey. Six birdies had him atop the board through 14 holes, but he couldn't find another birdie the rest of the way. He was joined on 25-under 263 by Villegas, who made two of his six birdies at 17 and 18 to claim his share of second.</p>

<p>American Justin Suh was fourth after a bogey-free seven-under par 65 for 264. The near miss left Colombia's Villegas still looking for a fifth PGA title -- nine years after he claimed his fourth.</p>

<p>Kuchar had been hoping a trip to Mexico would again see him end a victory drought. He claimed the last of his nine PGA titles at the 2019 Sony Open -- a month after he ended a near four-year title drought at this event when it was held at Mayakoba. Instead, it was van Rooyen in the winner's circle at the fifth event of the FedEx Cup Fall, a series of seven tournaments played after the TOUR Championship that finalizes eligibility for the 2024 PGA tour season.</p>

<p>The win moves van Rooyen from 125th to 63rd in the FedEx Cup Fall standings and in good shape to retain his card for next year.</p>


South Africa's Erik van Rooyen, inspired by a sick friend, rolled in a long eagle putt at the final hole to grab an emotional two-shot triumph Sunday (Nov 5) in the US PGA Tour World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico.

South Africa's Erik van Rooyen, inspired by a sick friend, rolled in a long eagle putt at the final hole to grab an emotional two-shot triumph Sunday (Nov 5) in the US PGA Tour World Wide Technology Championship in Mexico. He played the last five holes in five-under, playing the back nine in eight-under 28 on the way to a nine-under par 63 and a 27-under par total of 261 at Cardonal at Diamante in Los Cabos, the first Tiger Woods-designed course to be used for a PGA Tour event. His walk-off eagle gave him a two-shot triumph over third-round co-leaders Matt Kuchar and Camilo Villegas. "I was calm because there's bigger stuff in life than golf," said van Rooyen, breaking down in tears as he explained that dear friend Jon Trasamar is battling cancer. "Every shot out there today was for him," van Rooyen said. "When you're playing for something bigger than winning some silly trophy it puts it in perspective and at the end of the day whether I won here or I lost here it really didn't matter." One back to start the day, van Rooyen shook off an opening bogey, nabbing birdies at the second and sixth to get himself on track. He added three straight birdies at the 10th, 11th and 12th and another at 14 before birdies at 16 and 17 saw him pull level with overnight co-leader Kuchar atop the leaderboard at 25-under. Also Read: Two-time major winner Minjee Lee and her brother Min Woo target unique sweep of dual gender at Aus Open Kuchar started the day tied with Villegas after a rollercoaster round that included an eagle and a quadruple bogey. Six birdies had him atop the board through 14 holes, but he couldn't find another birdie the rest of the way. He was joined on 25-under 263 by Villegas, who made two of his six birdies at 17 and 18 to claim his share of second. American Justin Suh was fourth after a bogey-free seven-under par 65 for 264. The near miss left Colombia's Villegas still looking for a fifth PGA title -- nine years after he claimed his fourth. Kuchar had been hoping a trip to Mexico would again see him end a victory drought. He claimed the last of his nine PGA titles at the 2019 Sony Open -- a month after he ended a near four-year title drought at this event when it was held at Mayakoba. Instead, it was van Rooyen in the winner's circle at the fifth event of the FedEx Cup Fall, a series of seven tournaments played after the TOUR Championship that finalizes eligibility for the 2024 PGA tour season. The win moves van Rooyen from 125th to 63rd in the FedEx Cup Fall standings and in good shape to retain his card for next year.

Golf: Erik van Rooyen wins PGA Tour title in Mexico, pays tribute to dying friend

<p>Eleven workers were killed and 75 others were injured in a platinum mine in South Africa's Rustenburg on Monday (Nov 27) after an elevator suddenly dropped 650 feet while carrying them to the surface. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the incident happened at the end of workers' shifts. In a statement, Impala Platinum Holdings (Implats) CEO Nico Muller said the incident was the darkest day in the company's history, adding an investigation was launched.</p>

<p>Mining operations at the site were suspended on Tuesday, suspension might extend to Wednesday.</p>

<p>The 75 injured workers were hospitalised. Implats spokesperson Johan Theron said that some of the injured had serious compact fractures and pointed out it was a highly unusual incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's impossible to quantify the impact on production save to say (the) shaft on its own is a very large complex and contributes roughly 15% of Impala Rustenburg's production," Theron said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"To the extent that it's stopped for any length of time, it will have a corresponding impact on the entire company," he added.</p>

<p>The deaths at this mining site add to the 41 deaths that have been recorded in &nbsp;South Africa's mining industry this year so far, the news agency Reuters reported. Last year, 49 workers died in the country's mines.</p>


Eleven workers were killed and 75 others were injured in a platinum mine in South Africa's Rustenburg on Monday (Nov 27) after an elevator suddenly dropped 650 feet while carrying them to the surface.

Eleven workers were killed and 75 others were injured in a platinum mine in South Africa's Rustenburg on Monday (Nov 27) after an elevator suddenly dropped 650 feet while carrying them to the surface. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the incident happened at the end of workers' shifts. In a statement, Impala Platinum Holdings (Implats) CEO Nico Muller said the incident was the darkest day in the company's history, adding an investigation was launched. Mining operations at the site were suspended on Tuesday, suspension might extend to Wednesday. The 75 injured workers were hospitalised. Implats spokesperson Johan Theron said that some of the injured had serious compact fractures and pointed out it was a highly unusual incident. "It's impossible to quantify the impact on production save to say (the) shaft on its own is a very large complex and contributes roughly 15% of Impala Rustenburg's production," Theron said. "To the extent that it's stopped for any length of time, it will have a corresponding impact on the entire company," he added. The deaths at this mining site add to the 41 deaths that have been recorded in South Africa's mining industry this year so far, the news agency Reuters reported. Last year, 49 workers died in the country's mines.

South Africa: 11 killed, 75 injured after elevator drops 656 feet at platinum mine

The fighting in diplomatic parleys continue side by side in the Israel-Hamas War several countries are taking a clear position in the conflict one country that has been a vocal critic of Israel. South Africa this time going a step further its lawmakers have voted in favor of closing Israel's Embassy and cutting diplomatic ties with the war ridden country. The motion called for these measures until Israel agrees to ceasefire in Gaza.

South Africa to suspend ties with Israel

<p>South African lawmakers on Tuesday (Nov 21) voted in favour of closing down the Israeli embassy in Pretoria. They also finalised suspending all diplomatic relations until a ceasefire is agreed in the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The vote on Tuesday was adopted by a 248-91 margin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This was announced hours before Israel and Hamas agreed on&nbsp;a deal which would lead to the release of&nbsp;at least 50 Israeli hostages and scores of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons. The deal also allowed the Gaza residents to have a four-day truce - a brief relief from the deadly airstrikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel, Hamas, the United States, and Qatar set out a meticulously sequenced agreement, that had been weeks in the making, in a series of announcements.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Meanwhile, the resolution is mostly symbolic, as it will be up to President Cyril Ramaphosa's government to follow it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A representative for the president stated that Ramaphosa "notes and appreciates" parliament's instructions on South Africa's diplomatic relations with Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted by news agency Reuters, Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson to the President of South Africa said, "The president and cabinet are engaged over the matter, which remains the responsibility of the national executive."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli ambassador in Pretoria was recalled to Tel Aviv on Monday for consultations ahead of the vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Israel cabinet approves hostage deal; Netanyahu says, '4-days truce deal right decision'&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>BRICS countries discuss Gaza conflict&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The leaders of the BRICS group of developing countries and those countries asked to join next year discussed the ongoing war and West Asia crisis, but failed to reach an agreement on a joint declaration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The virtual meetings, hosted by South Africa, were the first between the organisation's leaders since Israel retaliated after a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. In August, the grouping agreed to admit Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, Argentina and the United Arab Emirates from January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ramaphosa told Tuesday's talks that diplomats did not have sufficient time to draft a declaration. In his summary of the discussions, Ramaphosa said: "We've called upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint. We affirmed ... that a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict can be achieved by peaceful means."&nbsp;</p>


South African lawmakers on Tuesday (Nov 21) voted in favour of closing down the Israeli embassy in Pretoria. They also finalised suspending all diplomatic relations until a ceasefire is agreed in the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

South African lawmakers on Tuesday (Nov 21) voted in favour of closing down the Israeli embassy in Pretoria. They also finalised suspending all diplomatic relations until a ceasefire is agreed in the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The vote on Tuesday was adopted by a 248-91 margin. This was announced hours before Israel and Hamas agreed on a deal which would lead to the release of at least 50 Israeli hostages and scores of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons. The deal also allowed the Gaza residents to have a four-day truce - a brief relief from the deadly airstrikes. Israel, Hamas, the United States, and Qatar set out a meticulously sequenced agreement, that had been weeks in the making, in a series of announcements. Also read: Former Obama adviser fired for racist and Islamophobic comments in viral video Meanwhile, the resolution is mostly symbolic, as it will be up to President Cyril Ramaphosa's government to follow it. A representative for the president stated that Ramaphosa "notes and appreciates" parliament's instructions on South Africa's diplomatic relations with Israel. As quoted by news agency Reuters, Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson to the President of South Africa said, "The president and cabinet are engaged over the matter, which remains the responsibility of the national executive." The Israeli ambassador in Pretoria was recalled to Tel Aviv on Monday for consultations ahead of the vote. Watch: Israel cabinet approves hostage deal; Netanyahu says, '4-days truce deal right decision' × Also read: Elon Musk declares X will donate its revenue to hospitals in Israel and Gaza BRICS countries discuss Gaza conflict The leaders of the BRICS group of developing countries and those countries asked to join next year discussed the ongoing war and West Asia crisis, but failed to reach an agreement on a joint declaration. The virtual meetings, hosted by South Africa, were the first between the organisation's leaders since Israel retaliated after a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7. BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. In August, the grouping agreed to admit Saudi Arabia, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, Argentina and the United Arab Emirates from January. Ramaphosa told Tuesday's talks that diplomats did not have sufficient time to draft a declaration. In his summary of the discussions, Ramaphosa said: "We've called upon all parties to exercise maximum restraint. We affirmed ... that a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict can be achieved by peaceful means."

South African lawmakers vote to suspend diplomatic ties with Israel and shut embassy

<p>South Africa's wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock had announced prior to the ODI World Cup 2023 that he'll retire at the end of the tournament. His last match came versus&nbsp;Australia on November 16 where the Proteas once again failed to break the knockout curse as they lost the semi-final match by three wickets.</p>

<p>SA skipper Temba Bavuma acknowledged after the match that de Kock would have wanted to end things on a different note but agreed that the southpaw will go down as one of the legends in his home country.</p>

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<p>“He would have wanted to end things on a different note, but he'll remember the type of innings and fight we showed as a team,” Bavuma said at the post-match ceremony after the loss against Australia.</p>

<p>“Us as players, we've enjoyed playing with him through all the years. In South Africa he will go down as one of the legends of the game,” he added.</p>

<p>de Kock had a wonderful World Cup as an individual, scoring 594 runs in 10 innings - second only to Virat Kohli's 711 runs. de Kock scored those runs at an average of 59.40 and a strike rate of 107. The opening batter also scored four centuries - the most in the ongoing World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overall, in ODIs, de Kock scored 6,770 runs in 155 matches at an average of 45 and strike rate of 96. He also has 21 hundreds to his name in ODIs - the third most for South Africa in the format behind Hashim Amla's 27 and AB de Villiers' 25. de Kock's highest score of 178 is also the third highest for the Proteas for most runs in an innings behind Gary Kirsten's 188 and Faf du Plessis' 185.</p>

<p>While de Kock would rue not being able to win the ICC silverware this time, he will be getting another chance in next year's T20 World Cup - a format which he will continue to play for South Africa.</p>


South Africa's wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock had announced prior to the ODI World Cup 2023 that he'll retire at the end of the tournament. His last match came versus Australia on November 16 where the Proteas once again failed to break the knockout curse as they lost the semi-final match by three wickets.

South Africa's wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock had announced prior to the ODI World Cup 2023 that he'll retire at the end of the tournament. His last match came versus Australia on November 16 where the Proteas once again failed to break the knockout curse as they lost the semi-final match by three wickets. SA skipper Temba Bavuma acknowledged after the match that de Kock would have wanted to end things on a different note but agreed that the southpaw will go down as one of the legends in his home country. Also Read: India vs Australia World Cup final: PM Modi to cheer India from stands, Aussie Dy PM to be present too “He would have wanted to end things on a different note, but he'll remember the type of innings and fight we showed as a team,” Bavuma said at the post-match ceremony after the loss against Australia. “Us as players, we've enjoyed playing with him through all the years. In South Africa he will go down as one of the legends of the game,” he added. de Kock had a wonderful World Cup as an individual, scoring 594 runs in 10 innings - second only to Virat Kohli's 711 runs. de Kock scored those runs at an average of 59.40 and a strike rate of 107. The opening batter also scored four centuries - the most in the ongoing World Cup. Overall, in ODIs, de Kock scored 6,770 runs in 155 matches at an average of 45 and strike rate of 96. He also has 21 hundreds to his name in ODIs - the third most for South Africa in the format behind Hashim Amla's 27 and AB de Villiers' 25. de Kock's highest score of 178 is also the third highest for the Proteas for most runs in an innings behind Gary Kirsten's 188 and Faf du Plessis' 185. While de Kock would rue not being able to win the ICC silverware this time, he will be getting another chance in next year's T20 World Cup - a format which he will continue to play for South Africa.

ODI World Cup 2023: SA wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock retires from ODIs post semi-final loss vs Australia

<p>South Africa coach Rob Walter&nbsp;gave a brutal reply when asked who does he think is going to win the ODI World Cup 2023 between India and Australia. Walters was asked the question at the post-match conference after South Africa's loss to Australia in the semi-final on November 16 and he didn't hold back at all.</p>

<p>"To be honest, there's about one per cent chance I'll be watching. And to be even more brutally honest, I don't care," said Walters as the room full of reporters burst into a laughter. Have a look at the video here:</p>

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<p>Walters reply, however, seems right after his team failed to break the knockout curse yet again. This was the fourth time South Africa failed to win a ODI World Cup semi-final.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-sa-wicketkeeper-quinton-de-kock-retires-from-odis-post-semi-final-loss-vs-australia-659963">SA wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock retires from ODIs post semi-final loss vs Australia</a></p>

<p>The Proteas had a good tournament overall, winning seven of their nine league matches with the losses coming against Netherlands and India only. They were exceptionally good when batting first but got under pressure while chasing.</p>

<p>In the semi-final against Australia, South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and elected to bat first. The lethal and accurate bowling by Australia's Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, however, derailed them early on with four quick wickets.</p>

<p>South Africa could never recover from the hole even after David Miller scored a gutsy 101. They eventually folded out for 212 - a below par score for the occasion.</p>

<p>While bowling, openers David Warner and Travis Head gave Australia a flying start by adding 60 quickfire runs. The Proteas spinners then pulled things back but it was always going to be a tough task defending 212.</p>

<p>Australia though lost seven wickets but Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc held their nerves in the end to seem them through. With the win, Australia entered their record eighth ODI World Cup final and will now face India on November 19 in Ahmedabad.</p>


South Africa coach Rob Walter gave a brutal reply when asked who does he think is going to win the ODI World Cup 2023 between India and Australia. Walters was asked the question at the post-match conference after South Africa's loss to Australia in the semi-final on November 16 and he didn't hold back at all.

South Africa coach Rob Walter gave a brutal reply when asked who does he think is going to win the ODI World Cup 2023 between India and Australia. Walters was asked the question at the post-match conference after South Africa's loss to Australia in the semi-final on November 16 and he didn't hold back at all. "To be honest, there's about one per cent chance I'll be watching. And to be even more brutally honest, I don't care," said Walters as the room full of reporters burst into a laughter. Have a look at the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) × Walters reply, however, seems right after his team failed to break the knockout curse yet again. This was the fourth time South Africa failed to win a ODI World Cup semi-final. Also Read: SA wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock retires from ODIs post semi-final loss vs Australia The Proteas had a good tournament overall, winning seven of their nine league matches with the losses coming against Netherlands and India only. They were exceptionally good when batting first but got under pressure while chasing. In the semi-final against Australia, South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and elected to bat first. The lethal and accurate bowling by Australia's Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, however, derailed them early on with four quick wickets. South Africa could never recover from the hole even after David Miller scored a gutsy 101. They eventually folded out for 212 - a below par score for the occasion. While bowling, openers David Warner and Travis Head gave Australia a flying start by adding 60 quickfire runs. The Proteas spinners then pulled things back but it was always going to be a tough task defending 212. Australia though lost seven wickets but Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc held their nerves in the end to seem them through. With the win, Australia entered their record eighth ODI World Cup final and will now face India on November 19 in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa coach gives BRUTAL reply on who'll win tournament | WATCH

South African Captain Temba Bavuma's disappointing World Cup ended with a duck and with many questioning his spot in the ODI team. Bavuma played the semi-final against Australia in Kolkata despite not being 100% fit and his early dismissal for a duck handed the Australian bowlers the advantage.

ICC World Cup: Does Temba Bavuma deserve a spot in South Africa's white-ball set-up?

<p>South Africa's Aiden Markram almost broke down during the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023 against Australia on November 16 in Kolkata. Markram was bowling with Australia seven wickets down and nine runs away from the 213-run target when wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock dropped a catch.</p>

<p>The incident happened on the second ball of the 44th over when Australia skipper and batter Pat Cummins inside-edged a ball from Markram. de Kock couldn't gather the catch and Cummins survived, eventually hitting the winning runs for his team. Have a look at the video below:</p>

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<p>The 212 runs from South Africa had minimal chances of being a hard target for five-time champions Australia even with a spirited SA bowling attack. After a flying start by David Warner and Travis Head, South Africa bowlers pulled things back but to no avail.</p>

<p>South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma also conceded that Australia were ruthless early on with the ball in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023.</p>

<p>"The conditions, combined with the quality of the attack. I thought [Josh] Hazlewood as well as [Mitchell] Starc upfront were ruthless. They exploited every bit of advantage that was presented to them with the conditions and they really put us under pressure," Bavuma said after the three-wicket loss.</p>

<p>He, however, gave due credit to Australia, who were also put under pressure by South African bowlers and said: "They were outstanding for a large part of the game and thoroughly deserved victory."</p>

<p>After losing the first four wickets quickly, David Miller scored a hundred as South Africa crossed the 200-run mark. While bowling, SA spinners Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj along with young speedster Gerald Coetzee kept the Aussies on their toes but the five-time winners eventually prevailed.</p>

<p>Australia will now face India in a replay of the 2003 ODI World Cup final on Sunday, November 19 in Ahmedabad.</p>


South Africa's Aiden Markram almost broke down during the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023 against Australia on November 16 in Kolkata. Markram was bowling with Australia seven wickets down and nine runs away from the 213-run target when wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock dropped a catch.

South Africa's Aiden Markram almost broke down during the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023 against Australia on November 16 in Kolkata. Markram was bowling with Australia seven wickets down and nine runs away from the 213-run target when wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock dropped a catch. The incident happened on the second ball of the 44th over when Australia skipper and batter Pat Cummins inside-edged a ball from Markram. de Kock couldn't gather the catch and Cummins survived, eventually hitting the winning runs for his team. Have a look at the video below: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × The 212 runs from South Africa had minimal chances of being a hard target for five-time champions Australia even with a spirited SA bowling attack. After a flying start by David Warner and Travis Head, South Africa bowlers pulled things back but to no avail. South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma also conceded that Australia were ruthless early on with the ball in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup 2023. "The conditions, combined with the quality of the attack. I thought [Josh] Hazlewood as well as [Mitchell] Starc upfront were ruthless. They exploited every bit of advantage that was presented to them with the conditions and they really put us under pressure," Bavuma said after the three-wicket loss. He, however, gave due credit to Australia, who were also put under pressure by South African bowlers and said: "They were outstanding for a large part of the game and thoroughly deserved victory." After losing the first four wickets quickly, David Miller scored a hundred as South Africa crossed the 200-run mark. While bowling, SA spinners Tabraiz Shamsi and Keshav Maharaj along with young speedster Gerald Coetzee kept the Aussies on their toes but the five-time winners eventually prevailed. Australia will now face India in a replay of the 2003 ODI World Cup final on Sunday, November 19 in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH | South Africa's Aiden Markram almost BREAKS DOWN in three-wicket loss vs Australia

<p>Australia skipper Pat Cummins said his players will draw on experience from previous title wins in their World Cup semi-final clash with&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa, spurred on by Glenn Maxwell's heroics having given them "an extra leg".</p>

<p>Five-time winners Australia went down to the Proteas in the league stage by 134 runs before they won seven straight matches to make the semi-final in Kolkata on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/kohlis-record-breaking-ton-shamis-sensational-seven-power-india-to-the-odi-world-cup-final-659018">Kohli's record-breaking ton, Shami's sensational seven power India to the ODI World Cup final</a></p>

<p>Australia, who lost an ODI series in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;in September, have beaten their rivals twice in World Cup semi-finals.</p>

<p>"You start from scratch every time you play," Cummins told reporters. "They're a team we've played quite a lot and know quite well."</p>

<p>"I think what helps us is we've got a lot of guys that have been in this situation before that have won the one-day World Cup, T20 World Cup, various other tournaments in big moments. So, I think that really helps. You can draw on that in the middle of the contest."</p>

<p>The most dramatic World Cup semi-final between the two teams was a tied match in Edgbaston in 1999 with Australia moving into the final due to a better group stage finish.</p>

<p>Cummins said "the 99 World Cup one, it's kind of folklore, isn't it? I've seen that replay heaps of times, you hear the stories."</p>

<p>Cummins, along with David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood was part of Australia's 2015 World Cup triumph at home and their maiden T20 World Cup title win in Dubai in 2021.</p>

<p>At this World Cup, Australia began with two losses including a defeat to India in their opener but have been on a roll since and Cummins takes inspiration from the winning streak.</p>

<p>"You can either build it up as the most important game of your life, or you can business as usual, really," Cummins said.</p>

<p>"And I think with experience, I think just keeping it pretty chilled and business as usual for our group seems to be the way to go. So, you draw back on those past wins but you also just draw back on the last few weeks and know that us at our best is good enough."</p>

<h2>'An extra leg'</h2>

<p>Australia have witnessed some brilliant individual performances including an unbeaten 201 from Maxwell in their dramatic win over Afghanistan and a match-winning 177 not out from Mitchell Marsh against Bangladesh.</p>

<p>Maxwell defied predictions and played through cramps from a dire 91-7 to pull the team to victory in their chase of 292 at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.</p>

<p>"As a team you grow an extra leg because you feel like you can win a match from anywhere and having someone like 'Maxi' in your team....he's a superstar, he's a freak, he can win a game from anywhere. Pretty glad he's in our team."</p>

<p>Rain is threatening the contest with downpours forecast in the eastern city on Thursday and during Friday's reserve day.</p>

<p>"We'll turn up, expect to play a 50-over match tomorrow, any of that shifts on us well. I'm sure in real time we can kind of adjust as needed," said Cummins.</p>

<p>"In terms of a short turnaround, it's fine. We've played lots of ODIs where you're playing on Friday, flying to a different city playing on the Sunday. So, it's not too big of a deal."</p>

<p>The final is on Sunday at the world's biggest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad.</p>


Australia skipper Pat Cummins said his players will draw on experience from previous title wins in their World Cup semi-final clash with South Africa, spurred on by Glenn Maxwell's heroics having given them "an extra leg".

Australia skipper Pat Cummins said his players will draw on experience from previous title wins in their World Cup semi-final clash with South Africa, spurred on by Glenn Maxwell's heroics having given them "an extra leg". Five-time winners Australia went down to the Proteas in the league stage by 134 runs before they won seven straight matches to make the semi-final in Kolkata on Thursday. Also Read: Kohli's record-breaking ton, Shami's sensational seven power India to the ODI World Cup final Australia, who lost an ODI series in South Africa in September, have beaten their rivals twice in World Cup semi-finals. "You start from scratch every time you play," Cummins told reporters. "They're a team we've played quite a lot and know quite well." "I think what helps us is we've got a lot of guys that have been in this situation before that have won the one-day World Cup, T20 World Cup, various other tournaments in big moments. So, I think that really helps. You can draw on that in the middle of the contest." The most dramatic World Cup semi-final between the two teams was a tied match in Edgbaston in 1999 with Australia moving into the final due to a better group stage finish. Cummins said "the 99 World Cup one, it's kind of folklore, isn't it? I've seen that replay heaps of times, you hear the stories." Cummins, along with David Warner, Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood was part of Australia's 2015 World Cup triumph at home and their maiden T20 World Cup title win in Dubai in 2021. At this World Cup, Australia began with two losses including a defeat to India in their opener but have been on a roll since and Cummins takes inspiration from the winning streak. "You can either build it up as the most important game of your life, or you can business as usual, really," Cummins said. "And I think with experience, I think just keeping it pretty chilled and business as usual for our group seems to be the way to go. So, you draw back on those past wins but you also just draw back on the last few weeks and know that us at our best is good enough." 'An extra leg' Australia have witnessed some brilliant individual performances including an unbeaten 201 from Maxwell in their dramatic win over Afghanistan and a match-winning 177 not out from Mitchell Marsh against Bangladesh. Maxwell defied predictions and played through cramps from a dire 91-7 to pull the team to victory in their chase of 292 at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. "As a team you grow an extra leg because you feel like you can win a match from anywhere and having someone like 'Maxi' in your team....he's a superstar, he's a freak, he can win a game from anywhere. Pretty glad he's in our team." Rain is threatening the contest with downpours forecast in the eastern city on Thursday and during Friday's reserve day. "We'll turn up, expect to play a 50-over match tomorrow, any of that shifts on us well. I'm sure in real time we can kind of adjust as needed," said Cummins. "In terms of a short turnaround, it's fine. We've played lots of ODIs where you're playing on Friday, flying to a different city playing on the Sunday. So, it's not too big of a deal." The final is on Sunday at the world's biggest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: Australia, South Africa battle in Kolkata for a place in final against India

South Africa wants the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel for alleged war crimes on the Gaza strip. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said, Gaza is now turned into a concentration camp, where a genocide is taking place.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa says, 'Israel is committing war crimes in Gaza strip'

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently deployed over 3000 soldiers on the ground to fight the country’s growing scourge- illegal mining. For years the country has been battling with this problem and the authorities seem confident that they will leave no stone unturned.

Illegal mines of South Africa

The fashion week season in South Africa came to a close as fashion lovers gathered at the forum campus in Brianston for the African fashion international (afi) Joburg Fashion Week spring/summer 23/24 collections. But the highlight of the event was Niger's alia bare whose main objective was to spread peace on the runway.

Joburg Fashion Week's star

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