Table of contents for 2025-11-21 in Star

Transnet will spend R2.7 billion this year on ports, with a total of R11 billion planned over the next five years to upgrade infrastructure and improve efficiency, Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy has revealed. This comes as the state-owned entity continues efforts to improve performance following years of delays, backlogs and criticism over collapsing port efficiency. Transnet has faced sustained pressure from industry and global assessments, including World Bank rankings that placed several South African ports among the worst in the world. Answering questions at the National Council of Provinces earlier this month, the minister said that the investment forms part of a broader programme to modernise the port system, tackle inefficiencies and increase freight volumes. "Transnet has approved a budget of R2.7 billion for capital investment in the port…

As Johannesburg hosts world leaders for the G20 Summit this weekend, a great deal of the global chatter has focused on one headline: President Donald Trump will not attend. Some commentators have painted this as a diplomatic setback for South Africa. Others say it weakens the credibility of a summit meant to steer the global economy. Both views miss the point. Trump’s absence is not a loss. It is a gift. Not because of the theatrics of geopolitics, but because it forces South Africa to confront a truth shaping the global economy: the world is moving away from multilateral declarations and into a new era of bilateral trade, strategic self-interest, and deal-by-deal engagement.The countries that thrive in this environment are not those waiting for consensus in crowded multilateral rooms. They…

Christie's said Wednesday it was suspending the Paris auction of one of just a handful of examples of the world's first calculating machine, developed by French mathematician and inventor Blaise Pascal in 1642. The auction of "La Pascaline" had been scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, but late on Tuesday a Paris court suspended authorisation for export -- meaning buyers would not be able to take it abroad. This example is one of only nine still existing and the only one believed to be in private hands -- others are held in museums. Christie's had dubbed the box, decorated with ebony, as "the most important scientific instrument ever offered at auction" and it had been expected to fetch 2-3 million euros. The auction house had described the machine as "nothing less than…

It’s another week of star-studded twists and unexpected turns. We have it all for you. From Nicki Minaj stepping into the political spotlight, to stars facing legal woes and Ratile Mabotja’s raw and emotional grief, here’s everything you might have missed: 1Nicki Minaj supports Trump’s stance on the persecution of Christians in Nigeria Multi award-winning rapper Nicki Minaj spoke out at an event hosted by the US embassy to the United Nations and thanked the US president for calling for an end to faith-based persecution in Nigeria. “No group should ever be prosecuted for practising their religion like I recently stated on social media. And we don’t have to share the same beliefs for us to respect each other,” Minaj shared. 2 Sol Phenduka earns a nomination at the upcoming…

Gregory Porter Live Following scintillating performances in Cape Town and Durban, the two-time Grammy Award-winning superstar is now set for an electrifying show in Joburg. These shows are part of the American jazz, soul and gospel singer and songwriter’s Love is King SA 2025 Tour. Attendees can expect to enjoy some of the top songs from his powerful discography, including Liquid Spirit and Hey Laura. The 54-year-old musician is one of the most celebrated voices in contemporary jazz. He is acclaimed for his warm baritone voice and heartfelt delivery. Where: The Teatro at Montecasino When: Tonight and tomorrow. All shows start at 8pm. Keinemusik in Johannesburg The world-renowned German electronic DJ and producer crew, Keinemusik is set to rock the Jozi inner-city. The group includes &ME, Rampa and Adam…

As the festive season approaches, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) is set to make its final grant payments of 2025, bringing relief to millions of South Africans relying on social grants. Timely payments will be made across different categories, ensuring beneficiaries can prepare for the holidays with dignity. Older persons are scheduled to receive their grants on Tuesday, December 2, followed by disability beneficiaries on Wednesday, December 3. Children and other grant recipients can expect their payments on Thursday, December 4. Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant recipients will receive their funds between December 24 and 30. SASSA continues to make strides in improving access to grants through digital solutions. Beneficiaries can now apply for grants online, offering a quick, easy, and convenient alternative to traditional in-person applications.…

National Director of Public Prosecutions, Shamila Batohi, told the Nkabinde Inquiry yesterday that prosecuting in South Africa during these times is a challenging job and it does happen on occasions that people try to influence the work done by the prosecuting authority. Batohi gave evidence in the hearing of suspended director of public prosecutions (DPP), Johannesburg, Advocate Andrew Chauke. A panel, chaired by retired Constitutional Judge Bess Nkabinde, is looking into his fitness to hold office. Batohi was instrumental in President Cyril Ramaphosa calling the Inquiry. For the past two days, she mostly testified in general regarding the legislative framework for prosecutors, the code of conduct, and prosecutorial independence, as set out in the NPA Act. Asked by evidence leader Advocate David Mohlamonyane whether it ever happens in practice that…

African National Congress (ANC) senior leader Dr Malusi Gigaba has made it clear that his decision to step aside from ANC duties does “not” amount to an admission of wrongdoing. In a statement released on Wednesday, the former Finance Minister emphasised that stepping aside is a voluntary and procedural measure designed to uphold the ANC’s integrity – not a confession of guilt. Gigaba faces corruption charges relating to allegations that he accepted undisclosed cash payments from members of the Gupta family, which the State claims were corrupt. On Tuesday, he appeared before the Palm Ridge Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Johannesburg alongside five other Transnet executives who face the exact charges. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Gigaba voluntarily stepped aside from his ANC responsibilities. He explained that his…

South Africa’s justice system is facing a worsening threat, not just from criminals, but from dangers directed at the very people tasked with upholding the law. According to the latest national survey documenting magistrates’ perceptions, nearly a third of judicial officers reported being threatened or harmed in direct connection with their work. The findings paint a stark picture: courtrooms and surrounding facilities have become potential danger zones. Twenty-three per cent of magistrates said they were threatened or harmed “once or twice” within a 12-month period, while a further 10% reported multiple incidents. The Western Cape emerged as the most dangerous province, with 39% of magistrates reporting threats, highlighting deep regional disparities in safety. Threats are not limited to criminal trials. Magistrates presiding over civil disputes – often assumed to be…

Kaizer Chiefs rising star Mfundo Vilakazi turned 20 this week, but the gifted attacker insists any celebrations are already behind him as Amakhosi sharpen their focus for Sunday’s CAF Confederation Cup opener away to Al Masry in Egypt. Vilakazi, one of the most exciting talents to emerge from Naturena’s youth structures, managed to spend time with his family before joining the travelling squad. For him, balancing personal moments with professional duty is important — but the mindset shift, he says, is immediate. “I’m glad we travelled a little late so I could spend my day with my family, but now I have to focus on Sunday because the birthday is over,” he told the media. His inclusion in the squad is further proof of the faith the Chiefs technical team…

The Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati has enjoyed a mixed bag of results for Proteas teams recently. It was where Laura Wolvaardt’s team were bundled out for 69 in their ICC Women’s World Cup opener before returning to exact revenge over the self-same England side in the semi-final to make history by becoming the first senior South African cricket team to reach a limited-overs World Cup final. Temba Bavuma’s Proteas Men’s side will be chasing their own slice of history when the second Test gets underway tomorrow as they seek a first Test series win in India for 25 years. To achieve this feat, they would do well to give Proteas Women’s coach Mandla Mashimbyi a call regarding the conditions for they are still very much in the dark. “As far…

Host Morocco, with six awards, showcased the best of African football talent at Wednesday night’s 2025 CAF Awards in Rabat. The North African nation underlined its rising dominance in African football, featuring prominently across all categories and cementing its status as a continental powerhouse. South Africa, while represented among the finalists, failed to reach the podium. The nominations, however, highlighted the achievements of its players and the stiff competition from the continent’s best. Leading Morocco’s charge was Yassine Bounou, who won Africa’s Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year, taking the title from Bafana Bafana’s Ronwen Williams, last year’s winner. Mamelodi Sundowns’ Andile Dlamini was unsuccessful in her bid for the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, which went to Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie. South African Under-20 defender Tylon Smith lost the Young…

South Africans will head into the festive season with welcome financial relief after the South African Reserve Bank (Sarb) cut interest rates by 25 basis points, reducing the repo rate from 7.00% to 6.75% per annum. The unanimous decision by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) marks the sixth rate reduction since the start of the easing cycle in September 2024, bringing cumulative cuts to 1.75 percentage points. The prime lending rate now falls to 10.25%, easing debt-servicing costs for households already strained by years of elevated borrowing rates. Standard Bank’s Head of South Africa Macroeconomic Research, Dr Elna Moolman, said the full impact of the current cutting cycle will only be felt in 2026. “This will then counteract the reduced tailwind from low inflation. Consumer spending will likely also be…

The property industry has welcomed the South African Reserve Bank’s (Sarb) decision to lower interest rates by 25 basis points, a move expected to ease pressure on consumers and stimulate activity in the residential market. The rate cut, announced by Governor Lesetja Kganyago on Thursday following this week's Monetary Policy Committee meeting, reduces the repo rate to 6.75% and the prime lending rate to 10.25%. Kganyago said the decision was unanimous, marking the latest step in a gradual easing cycle as inflation trends lower and economic conditions stabilise. Seeff Property Group chairman, Samuel Seeff, on Thursday said the cut brings “welcome news and early festive cheer” for households, the economy and the property sector. Seeff noted that inflation, averaging just under 3.3% this year, remains well within the Sarb’s proposed…

Every November, men around the world grow moustaches in solidarity for Movember, a global movement that shines a light on men’s health. But beyond the fun selfies and moustache competitions lies a deeper message: too many men are struggling silently with issues they don’t talk about, especially low testosterone. It’s easy to blame stress, age or a demanding lifestyle when your energy drops or your mood starts dipping. But for many men, these subtle changes may be early signs of something more: low testosterone, also known as male hypogonadism. And recognising it early can be life-changing. What does testosterone really do? We often associate testosterone with muscle, masculinity and strength. But this hormone quietly powers almost every part of a man’s well-being, from mood and mental clarity to sexual desire…

South Africa faces a growing measles crisis as childhood vaccination rates continue to fall, leaving thousands of children vulnerable and driving outbreaks across multiple provinces. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has confirmed that measles outbreaks are ongoing in several provinces, including Gauteng, the Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, the Northern Cape and the Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality. Between week 1 and week 45 of 2025, 1 795 laboratory-confirmed measles cases were reported nationally, with 114 new cases added in the last week alone. Gauteng remains the most affected province, recording 745 cases, while the Western Cape reported 52 new cases in week 45. Rubella infections continue to rise as well, with 1 698 cases detected nationally by week 45. Against this backdrop, the Western Cape Department of…

Brown Mogotsi, a North West businessman and alleged information peddler, came under scrutiny yesterday for suggesting that suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu used a Constitutional Court ruling to charge Dumisani Khumalo, head of the Political Killings Task Team (PKTT), despite Khumalo not being implicated in the judgment. Mogotsi, who has been accused of leveraging his connections to Mchunu to influence police matters, was testifying at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. He was cross-examined about the court ruling he shared with Mchunu, with a message: “Now we got something proven by the court. This is the matter now which either (Shadrack) Sibiya or the Minister can charge Khumalo and apply Rule 9 of the disciplinary hearing.” Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, however, pointed out that the court judgment in question had nothing to…

The Mpumalanga High Court has set aside an order compelling the Department of Basic Education to release withheld matric results to learners who were accused of being part of a massive cheating scandal during the 2022 exams. Their exam results were withheld and declared null and void by the Mpumalanga Department of Education. This was after the department determined at the marking phase of the learners’ scripts and pursuant to an investigation that the learners had cheated. The learners turned to court last year, where they scored a victory when the department was ordered to release their results. But the department now successfully appealed that ruling before three judges. Judge Takalani Ratshibvumo found that the vast majority of the learners implicated did not exhaust the internal appeal processes, as required…

Good morning, distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and friends. Before I begin, please allow me to observe all protocols and acknowledge the presence of the many distinguished dignitaries, policymakers, media leaders, and thought leaders from across Africa, China, and beyond. Your presence here greatly honours us and adds depth and significance to this important gathering. It is a great honour and privilege to welcome you all to this important event – the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum. At the outset, allow me to express how proud Independent Media is to co-host this event with our valued partner, Xinhua News Agency. We extend our warmest congratulations to Xinhua for the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment they continue to show in advancing the Global South narrative. This forum – initiated through…

Kill Your Boss Jack Heath Multi-cast narration Audible originals AUDIOBOOKS have the unique ability to bring stories to life, and the latest offering from Audible Originals, Kill Your Boss by Jack Heath, exemplifies this perfectly. With a multi-cast narration that immerses listeners into the story, this audiobook serves up a delightful blend of dark humour and thrilling mystery, making for an unforgettable experience. The premise of the story is irresistibly captivating: Detective Sergeant Kiara Lui inadvertently stumbles upon a bizarre scene at the Warrigal Public Library. A loud brawl has just come to an explosive end, and as she prepares to leave, a man crashes down from the sky - quite literally. Neville Adams, the Head of Library Services, has fallen to his death, landing at the foot of the…

Law enforcement agencies are urging Gauteng residents to prepare for traffic disruptions as South Africa is set to host world leaders for the G20 Summit this weekend. A wide network of road closures and rolling traffic restrictions will be in place from November 18 to 23, affecting major highways and urban routes across Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni. In a joint statement, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), Gauteng Traffic Police (GTP), JMPD, TMPD, EMPD, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) said the closures form part of heightened security measures for the high-level gathering. “These measures are necessary as South Africa proudly hosts the G20 Summit, a major international event bringing together global leaders,” the agencies said. “Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow additional travel time, and consider alternative…

The Springboks would have relished marking RG Snyman’s 50th Test with a starting berth in Dublin tomorow, but circumstance has handed him an equally crucial role. Instead of leading from the first whistle, the towering lock will bring his trademark impact off the bench — a responsibility he has fully embraced as South Africa gear up for a bruising battle with Ireland. Head coach Rassie Erasmus has selected his strongest possible side for the clash at the Aviva Stadium (7.40pm start) as the Boks look to end a 13-year wait for a victory in the Irish capital. He made only three changes to the team that beat France a couple of weekends ago. “RG would’ve loved to start and play as long as he can — most players do —…

During a heated virtual parliamentary hearing on Tuesday, the South African Football Association (Safa) came under fire, as it always does. Among the flashpoints were concerns over financial disparities within the national football coaching staff and the association’s overall governance. The stark salary contrast between Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos and his counterpart, Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis, was a central point of contention that drew passionate, sharp reactions from members of Parliament. During the session, which saw Safa’s CEO, Lydia Monyepao, at the forefront, tensions escalated when MPs confronted her about the financial inequities between the two coaches. Monyepao’s insistence on citing the Protection of Personal Information Act as a defence for withholding Broos’s salary drew the panel’s discontent, which sought clarity on the issue. The hearing, convened by…

The African club football season will kick off on Friday with the start of the CAF Champions League group stages, a competition renowned for its unpredictability and fierce rivalry. As clubs across the continent ramp up their preparations, attention shifts to the tacticians who will steer their teams through this critical phase. The group stages are marked not only by the skill displayed on the pitch, but also by the strategic prowess of the coaches at the helm. As the competition intensifies, here are three key tacticians to watch as they look to guide their teams toward success in this prestigious tournament. Rulani Mokwena (MC Alger) He is the only South African coach in this season’s CAF Champions League group stages. Mokwena’s journey from a successful tenure at Mamelodi Sundowns…

Red Bull’s hopes in Las Vegas hinge on one technical priority above all else: finding the RB21’s operating window. Without that, Max Verstappen simply cannot fight for victory — and the team knows it. As Laurent Mekies put it bluntly, Red Bull’s recent dip comes down to a single truth: “We just need to get the car in the right window.” Until they do, the RB21's pace will remain unpredictable, leaving Verstappen’s weekends defined more by setup fortune than by the car’s true potential. Red Bull’s struggles are not about track characteristics, and Mekies was emphatic on that point. “It’s not a case that the tracks are bad for us,” he said, dismissing claims that recent results reflect circuit-specific weaknesses. The real issue is consistency. The RB21 is devastatingly fast…

If it wasn't for a pastrami sandwich and a cold beer to swallow it down with, Ireland would have ruined Paris for me. The City of Lights is on many people's bucket list to visit — the history, the landmarks, the food … it's all so romantic. With the Seine river cutting through its centre, world-famous monuments stand proudly overlooking the city. It makes for spectacular views and vistas. The French, so the saying goes, can live without the world, but the world cannot live without the French. On its outskirts, in Saint-Denis, and dominating the skyline there, stands the Stade de France — an 80 000-seater behemoth of a stadium that has seen some truly remarkable South African achievements. In September 2023, it hosted a Rugby World Cup group…

Evidence in the explosive allegations by JSE AltX-listed Mantengu Mining against certain JSE executives includes emails that appear to support the mining company’s claims of suspicious transactions of its shares, while the JSE says these correspondences may be “spoof email.” Mantengu in May this year filed a criminal complaint with the authorities against several JSE executives and others about alleged share price manipulation that Mantengu's CEO Mike Miller alleged was aimed at depressing the company’s share price, claims that the JSE continues to roundly deny. “There have been no credible facts, not any, primary or direct evidence produced that would justify a suspension or “garden leave” for any of the JSE directors,” said JSE Group legal and public policy director Louis Cockeran in response to BR questions about the matter.…

South Africa’s agricultural sector continued its strong export performance in 2025, defying global trade uncertainty and shifting policy environments, according to the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz). The country’s agricultural exports reached $11.7 billion (R189 billion) in the first three quarters of the year — a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Agbiz chief economist Wandile Sihlobo said third-quarter exports alone totalled $4.7bn (R68bn), up 13% year-on-year, driven by higher export volumes and firm commodity prices. South Africa’s export mix remained diverse, led by citrus, nuts, apples, pears, maize, wine, sugar, fruit juices, berries, grapes, pineapples, avocados and soybeans. Improved port performance — despite ongoing challenges — also helped sustain the flow of agricultural goods out of the country. Sihlobo noted that operational improvements at…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that the US has made a U-turn on its plans to boycott the G20 Leaders Summit this weekend. Ramaphosa made this announcement during a European Union leaders’ event at the Sandton Convention Centre last night. The US delegation attending the summit is expected to be led by officials from the embassy in Pretoria. Despite the announcement coming at the eleventh hour, Ramaphosa welcomed the decision, adding that it was a positive sign, saying that boycott politics do not work. “We have received notice from the United States concerning participation in the G20 Leaders’ Summit. This is a notice that is still in discussion. There has been a change of mind about participation in one shape, form, or another,” the President stated. Ramaphosa revealed that at…

Bakwena Productions and SABC 2 revealed the star-studded cast for the new telenovela series Pimville, on one of their set locations, entertainment venue Pianohub in Pimville. The telenovela is slated for an early release in 2026 and replaces the now-cancelled Muvhango. Pimville brings together an all-star cast of celebrated South African talent, making one wonder what the budget was when it came to the cast, which comprises Gail Mabalane, Matli Mohapeloa, Thapelo Mokoena, Keke Mphuthi, Mondli Makhoba, Michelle Mosalakae, Fulu Modibedi, Clementine Mosimane, Jesse Suntele, Eve Rasimeni, Sipho Ndlovu, Mandla Gaduka, Thabo Malema, Charmaine Mtinta and Lillian Dube. Mabalane portrays Phello Mohapi, a strong-willed woman navigating love, betrayal, and survival in the heart of Soweto. “I play the character of detective Phello Mohapi on SABC2’s Pimville, an exciting character. I…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed that the US has made a U-turn on its plans to boycott the G20 Leaders Summit this weekend. Ramaphosa made this announcement during a European Union leaders’ event at the Sandton Convention Centre last night. The US delegation attending the summit is expected to be led by officials from the embassy in Pretoria. Despite the announcement coming at the eleventh hour, Ramaphosa welcomed the decision, adding that it was a positive sign, saying that boycott politics do not work. “We have received notice from the United States concerning participation in the G20 Leaders’ Summit. “This is a notice that is still in discussion. There has been a change of mind about participation in one shape, form, or another,” the President stated. Ramaphosa revealed that at…

Lieutenant General Molefe Fani, Divisional Commissioner for Supply Chain Management at the South African Police Service (SAPS), appearing before the parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee – defended the decision to award a R360 million tender to controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. The Committee, established in October, is investigating serious allegations of infiltration and corruption within SAPS. It also centers on SAPS tenders allegedly manipulated to benefit criminal syndicates purportedly protected by senior political and police officials, with Matlala at the forefront. In June 2024, SAPS awarded a major security services tender to Medicare24, a company linked to Matlala. Twenty-two bidders submitted tenders, but Medicare24 was selected after evaluation and adjudication committees endorsed it as compliant with procurement requirements. However, shortly after the award, investigative reports raised concerns that the company lacked…

AfriForum is demanding that the Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality immediately refund the money that has been unlawfully collected from Pretoria residents for the city cleaning levy over the past few months or face further court action. This comes in the wake of the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, this week taking a strong stand against the Tshwane Metro through Acting Judge George Avvakoumides’ latest ruling. The court reaffirmed that the Metro’s controversial levy is unlawful and that the original ruling remains in force pending the outcome of the appeal process, launched by the City. As such, the Metro may not levy the tariff until the appeal process is concluded. The civil rights organisation is also opposing this appeal. According to Arno Roodt, AfriForum’s District Coordinator for Greater Pretoria South, the latest ruling…

A truck driver who was denied his pension fund after he fell asleep behind the steering wheel and overturned, has been allowed to access his pension fund. Wonderboy Shasha worked for Anderson Transport Dienste as a truck driver from July 2024 to March 2025. He was dismissed for falling asleep behind the steering wheel while driving, which subsequently led to the vehicle to overturn. At the time of his dismissal, Shasha was a member of the Sanlam Provident Fund. Following his dismissal, he made an attempt to withdraw his pension fund, but the employer refused to give Sanlam the go-ahead to release the funds as there was a pending dispute regarding his dismissal. Shasha sought relief from the Pension Fund Adjudicator, and Sanlam was ordered to accept the withdrawal claim…

South Africa’s aviation network has passed its final operational tests ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, with Transport Minister Barbara Creecy confirming that the country’s ports of entry are “ready” ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit. Creecy said preparations began a year ago when the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) was instructed to take charge of aviation planning for the event. “On 19 November 2024, the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) CEO was tasked to coordinate all G20 aviation matters,” she said, adding that the work involved Air Traffic and Navigation Services, SA Civil Aviation Authority, South African Airways, and national security structures to ensure “seamless integration and coordination of all our airports nationwide”. Four facilities have been approved as primary points of entry for heads of state: OR Tambo…

Khanyi and the Kite Candida Mosoma Mbilu Tales Many South African entertainers have found new creative ground in children’s literature. Carol Ofori, Salamina Mosese, Shudufhadzo Musida and Sho Madjozi are among those who have brought African stories and characters to life for young readers. Multi-award-winning actress and singer Candida Mosoma is now joining their ranks with her debut children’s book, Khanyi and the Kite, part of the Mbilu Tales Series. The story follows Khanyi and her playful pug, Momo, as they embark on a lighthearted adventure through the park after Khanyi’s colourful kite drifts away. Inspired by her grandmother’s words, “Fly, my little kite, fly high in the sky… Your world is endless, your world will always be new,” Khanyi learns about love, courage and the power of imagination. The…

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus says the result of a close match against Ireland on Saturday will not define a season, in which his team have already won 11 of the 13 matches they have played. Erasmus added that while much is being made about the Boks losing four of their last five games against the Irish, the margins have been tiny. “I am not sure that Saturday’s result will define the season as being successful or not,” the coach said. “If we play at our best, but Ireland are better on the day, what can you say then? That is rugby. “It is about the level of performance that we deliver in our 14th match of the season. We have been together since the beginning of June. To keep up…

Ox Nche is still processing his nomination for the World Rugby Men's Player of the Year award. Earlier this week, the burly Springbok was penned in on the shortlist for the prestigious honour, making history in the process by becoming the first prop to receive such recognition. Speaking as brand ambassador for The Braai Republic at their first franchise outlet at Northgate shopping centre in Johannesburg yesterday, Nche could scarcely suppress his shock at announcement. “I am still digesting it,” Nche said, with a chuckle. “I still can’t believe it … it’s overwhelming. “I think every single player aspires to be recognised as one of the best players in the world, but once it happens, you can’t believe it. You do get a bit emotional. “Even now, I’m getting goosebumps…

With the Proteas riding high after their historic victory in the first Test against India at Eden Gardens last week, they will fancy their chances of sealing the series — regardless of the conditions India may throw at them in Guwahati. Proteas Test teams of the past were known for being slow starters, often beginning series on the back foot and relying on their resilience-based identity to claw their way back. This current crop appears to be on a different trajectory after winning the opening Test in Kolkata. They seem intent on throwing the first punch rather than absorbing it. At the same time, this new group continues to embody the grit of previous generations. The first Test showed they can withstand the swings and setbacks that come with long-format…

Former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has expressed confidence that star midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng will overcome his slow start to the season and continue playing a central role for the Buccaneers. Mofokeng recently returned from injury and immediately made an impact, producing a stylish assist in his team’s 3-1 away victory over Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership earlier this month. The gifted midfielder missed Bafana Bafana’s recent World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda after picking up a knock against Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout round of 16, just before the final two qualifiers. With only a short window before Hugo Broos names the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco next month, the youngster will be eager to impress and secure his spot in the…