The Springboks became the first team in the history of the game to win both the Rugby Championships and the Rugby World Cup in the same year after defeating England 32-12 in Yokohama, Japan on Saturday 2 November.
South Africa claimed the victory following an exciting campaign that saw the team finish the tournament with the most points and tries scored as well as becoming the first team ever to win the World Cup following an opening day loss.
Subsequent victories over Namibia,Italy and Canada saw the team progress to a quarter-final where they overcame a spirited Japanese host side. Their semi-final with Wales was a tight affair where the team ground out a 19-16 victory before defeating England in tonight’s final.
The victorious team featured 3 ASICS ambassadors in key roles for the team in Eben Etzebeth, Tendai Mtawarira and Lood de Jager along with supporting roles by Elton Jantjies and Thomas du Toit.
Earlier in 2019 ASICS extended their partnership as Technical Apparel Partner with South African Rugby and the Springboks until 2023 – when the Springboks will be defending their Rugby World Cup title in France.
“Winning the World Cup means so much to the team – being able to give back to the country and all our supporters has been our aim from day one and we’re glad we could deliver over the last couple of months in Japan”, veteran Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira said, after ending a remarkable playing career with the team on a high by lifting the trophy in Japan.
“This one is for our supporters who have been with us through thick and thin and we are happy to bring home the trophy to South Africa”, said Eben Etzebeth, who had an integral role at lock for the team.
“ASICS would like to congratulate the team, coach Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff and all Springbok supporters on the triumph. The win rounds of a fantastic year for everyone associated with South African rugby and sets up an exciting next phase for the team, its supporters and partners”.
Limited Edition Springbok merchandise celebrating their Rugby World Cup triumph is available at www.asics.com and selected ASICS Retail Stores worldwide.
