One of the best football players from South Africa moved to La Liga in Spain on this day, July 24, 1999.
A tour to England shortly after the war led to a stellar series for one of the South African batsmen, and we also recall the impact of politics on SA sport.
On this day, July 24,
1947 – On July 24, 1947, Alan Melville reached his hundred at Lord’s.
This was his fourth century in as many Test innings, all against England, spanning an eight-year span.
1971 – The Rand Daily Mail says that although they might not be on the same team, “Black” and “White” South Africans might participate against one another in a “open international” meeting.
Sports organisations that want to host “open international” competitions must request government clearance.
Only the Olympic Games, the Davis Cup, and the Federation Cup tennis championships would allow mixed South African teams.
1976 – At Kings Park in Durban, the Springboks defeated the All Blacks 16-7 in the opening Test of New Zealand’s 1976 tour of South Africa. The series was ultimately won by South Africa 3-1.
In the 50th minute of the match, Gerrie Germishuys scored a remarkable try in the left corner.
1999 – Benni McCarthy agrees to an R38.5 million contract to play for Celta Vigo in Spain.
Ajax Amsterdam received €6 million from Celta in exchange for the striker’s services.
After leaving Celta, he transferred to Porto, where he played for Jose Mourinho and won the Champions League.
On this day in 1999, Ray White is re-elected to serve as president of the SA United Cricket Board (UCB). Later, the organisation will change its name to Cricket South Africa.
2004 – At Christchurch’s Jade Stadium, the All Blacks defeated the Springboks by a slim margin of 23-21.
At that moment, South Africa hadn’t triumphed in New Zealand since 1998, and their victory in Christchurch represented their closest opportunity prior to their victory at Carisbrook in 2008.
2010 saw Australia upset the Springboks 30-13 at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium.
The victory was the second of the Wallabies’ four victories over the Springboks in a row at home.