The South African Flag is one the more colourful of world cricket and with each Australia Cricket Tour to South Africa, game after game, more and more flags are being waved by their people, as they cheer and support their lads on the field. At the start of each game, the national anthem and 'Shosholoza' (South African theme song) are sung, and the terraces look fantastic awash with the colour of hundreds of South African flags.
It reminds me of my days at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as a 10-year-old, seeing what looked like 'millions' of Australian Flags being proudly waved, thinking how good it would look if the Australia Flag was painted across the roof of the old Southern Stand. That's how much pride I had in our Flag, even as a youngster.
When I see the South Africa Flag being waved so passionately by people of all ages and races, it shows the great pride South Africans have for their country, at the same time it confuses me why so many venues outlaw flags all together, when we all know the importance of showing where we are from and whose side we support. Without opposition, there is no game!
Hi Luke. Clearly remember the one Dayer in SA in 06. We made 438 – and were beaten. But more clearly remember the singing and chanting of the whole crowd as they closed in on the victory target. Singing that continued after the game as spectators headed into the city. SA pride was on display that day. As one of 12 Aussies was a special part of the trip.