President Cyril Ramaphosa has invited the Proteas to celebrate their World Test Championship victory, according to Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie.
“On behalf of the president of the country [Ramaphosa], who has asked me to extend a personal invite that he would like to have dinner with you,” McKenzie said during a press conference at the Cricket South Africa offices in Melrose upon the Proteas’ arrival from England on Wednesday.
“President Ramaphosa and the cabinet of elites are truly proud of what you achieved in England.”
The Proteas made history when they delivered the first ICC trophy in 27 years when they beat defending champions Australia by five wickets at Lord’s over the weekend.
Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma also became the first captain of colour to lead the Proteas senior team to glory.
Like any other victorious national team, the question of bonuses and rewards always arises.
We must do something for Proteas
McKenzie, who has been vocal about artists and athletes being rewarded for their hard work, said, without giving much away, that the government will do something for the Proteas.
“The way we win as South Africans, I swear if we were to give everyone a bonus, we would be bankrupt,” McKenzie said jokingly.
“But on a serious note, I was so happy when the president said I must invite the team, which means [the question of bonuses] is now above me.
“But I can surely say that we owe this team a great debt of gratitude, and we must do something for them as the government, and that does not only apply to the Proteas but to all the teams that have been winning.
“So, the team will be going to the big boss [Ramaphosa], and they will not leave empty-handed there.”
The Proteas concluded their trophy tour at the headquarters of their main sponsor Castle Lager in Bryanston on Thursday.
