EXPLOSION OF JOY

Sunday Times photographer Alaister Alaister Russell Russell was on duty when the Springboks took on New Zealand in the Rugby World Cup final last weekend, snapping photos of South Africans watching the game at pubs and restaurants. He posted his impressions on social media the following day. We also bring you pictures of post-victory celebrations around the country

Last night I didn’t watch the Rugby World Cup final. I witnessed something far more beautiful. I watched as we gathered in communion, excited and nervous; our path here was not easy.

I saw different cultures welcome each other, as our team represented a variety of people who live in our country. The bars and restaurants became filled to capacity and so did the sidewalks as people peered through windows.

I watched confidence grow on their faces as they observed the prowess in teamwork, strategy and skill moving things forward to take the lead. I saw a room full of strangers become best friends as they cheered strong defensive moves and collectively held their breath as the point difference narrowed.

The hopes of a nation holding on by one point clearly visible in the eyes of each person, and the anguish of watching the clock tick when time itself seemed to slow down.

Then I heard the final whistle blow, followed by an explosive celebration that took to the streets. Highfives, hugs and impromptu dances at intersections, illuminated by car headlights that were comically halted for a few moments before being let through after giving a celebratory hoot. The human vs car ruck was my favourite, the driver and the participants sharing a lighthearted moment.

We waved our flags and shared love and just enjoyed the moment. All this was witnessed in one street in Melville, Johannesburg — a microcosm of an entire country bursting with joy.

So unfortunately I didn’t watch the game, no, but I saw how beautiful South Africans can be when they are truly happy, and for that I am really grateful.

I’ll catch the highlights on TV soon and I’m totally OK with that.

Picture: Thapelo Morebudi In Braamfontein, Johannesburg, a massive crowd brought the bus with Siya Kolisi’s team to a standstill. The huge crowd stretched right over the Nelson Mandela bridge, top right.

Pictures: Nic Bothma/Reuters Faf de Klerk and his teammates, above, celebrated in fine form outside the Cape Town City Hall, and in the city’s jampacked streets fans celebrated the joy of victory by proudly displaying the national colours, left,

Picture: Alaister Russell South Africans celebrate at Xai Xai in Melville after the Springboks beat New Zealand 12-11 in the Rugby World Cup final.

Picture Veli Nhlapo Fans lined the streets of Soweto as the team went on their trophy tour, some dancing on top of the bus.

Picture: Freddy Mavunda Springbok captain Siya Kolisi and President Cyril Ramaphosa show off the Cup at the Union Buildings.