South Africa balloons in the team's colours

From Pienaar to Kolisi, the Springboks on top of the world

South Africa won the World Cup in 1995, 2007, 2019, and 2023. The first victory at Ellis Park in Johannesburg remains a symbol: Nelson Mandela, dressed in the green jersey with the number six, handed the trophy to captain François Pienaar in a country emerging from apartheid. In 2019 in Japan, and then in 2023 in France, it’s Siya Kolisi, the first black captain of the national team, appointed in 2018, who lifts the trophy. This latest title makes the Springboks the first nation to be crowned four times.

Other nations

Nation's balls come in other varieties too:

• England Balls.
• Australia Balls.
• France Balls.
• Ireland Balls.
• New Zealand Balls.

All the nation balls are gathered on the nation balls page.

Why the springbok, an emblem born in 1906

The nickname dates back to the 1906 tour to Great Britain: manager and captain Paul Roos decided to name the team the Springboks, after the name of the leaping antelope from southern Africa, before the British press chose it a nickname themselves. The green and gold, already worn at that time, became the team's identity. The ball in the South African colours reflects this duo, loved by fans who follow the Springboks every year in the Rugby Championship, the big competition in the southern hemisphere.

Playing with the Springboks ball: size and care

In size five, which is for adults and players from around fifteen years old, a rugby ball weighs between 410 and 460 grams according to regulations. For children aged eleven to fourteen, size four fits better in the hand; below ten years old, size three is chosen. The deep green of a supporter’s ball does poorly with long exposure to sunlight: keep it in the shade and clean it with clear water, without detergent, before leaving it to dry away from a radiator. Checking the pressure before each game prevents distortion of the cover.

Bargains

Good deals can be found in bargains, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24h are prepared and sent out in 24 hours. The highlights of the year follow a steady order: Black Friday in late autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Bomb Squad of the Springboks?

It's the nickname given to the South African bench, mostly made up of powerful forwards who come on in the second half to make an impact on scrums and mauls. This tactical choice, which nearly renews the entire pack during a match, has become a trademark.

Is the Springboks ball played on a real pitch?

Yes, for passes and games among friends on grass, in size five for adults. In official competition, clubs use a match ball, which is more grippy and accurate than a supporter’s version.

What gift for a Springboks fan?

The green and gold ball of the Springboks is kept as a souvenir or used for passing in the park, without any questions about clothing size. For a young player, choose the size appropriate for their age so they can really use it.

When did South Africa play its first test?

In 1891, against the British on tour, in Port Elizabeth. Excluded by the sporting boycott related to apartheid, the team did not compete in the first two World Cups and discovered the competition in 1995, at home.

How to inflate a rugby ball?

Using a pump with a moistened needle, inserted straight into the valve to avoid damaging it. Check the pressure on the gauge: a ball that’s too hard stresses its seams, while a soft ball throws and kicks poorly.