On Saturday the greatest two sides in the history of rugby union came together for yet another historic clash in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship.
This occasion was significant for a number of reasons, not least because it was the first meeting between the two sides since the 2023 World Cup. The result in Saturday’s clash was no different to the final in Paris all those months ago, with South Africa taking a slender victory over their famous rivals.
The day had gotten off to a poor start, however. Stadium officials and organisers were criticised when the HAKA was disrupted by an A380 airliner flying over, with music, fireworks and boos also drowning out the traditional war dance.
What a test match but my only disappointment was the noise made and music being played during the Haka, it’s a privilege to watch and hear for player and fan alike, please let’s respect it in Cape Town…
— John Smit (@JohnSmit123) September 2, 2024
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby has since released a statement, saying: “I apologised in person and have written to the NZRFU to formally express our regret and apologies for what occurred,
“It was never the intention to schedule any activities that would coincide with such an iconic moment of any Test match against the All Blacks. That it occurred was a result of timekeeping challenges and simple human error.
This was incredible! BUT what a shocker by Stadium DJ and Management to scream, play songs and set off fireworks during the Hakapic.twitter.com/dr7mUCjZ0Z
— Rugby Bits (@RugbyBits) September 1, 2024
“In the confusion, the crowd’s excited cheering was mistaken to have marked the conclusion of the Haka by an unsighted sound engineer who restarted the music programme. It was highly regrettable but in no way deliberate.”
Oberholzer said that SA Rugby was distressed by the breach of protocol and the apparent display of lack of respect it may have suggested.
“We hold dear the values and traditions of the game,” said Oberholzer. “The unfortunate events in no way represent any lack of respect that South African rugby holds for the significance and history of the Haka. We will ensure such errors cannot be repeated.”
Marvellous day at Ellis Park and great to see the Boks grind out a rather fortunate win. Why the jeering during the NZ anthem and also during the Haka? Surely we can be passionate without being unsporting.
— John Robbie (@John_C_Robbie) September 1, 2024
One person on X, Lallana_Pyjama5 said: “The plane was on course & the timing was off. Pretty difficult to change flight path with 5-10 minutes notice. The DJ could have just not played SB during the haka. It was one button switch. We need to start controlling these DJs. This is not Billy’s on a Friday at 2am.”
PieterR84276139 was disappointed by the Ellis Park crowd: “Personally I’m a bit disgusted at my home crowd for the noise and booing during the Haka. Its unsporting and just not South African. I feel the same way about respecting a goal kicker. Ok so I’m 61 but I remember when we were the only bunch who didn’t have to do this.”
Anthony19908499 appreciated the show of faith, saying: “Good to see the apology. Not intentional and now we go again next weekend. Hoping for a lekker haka and another Bok win!!!”
Marcel_za aimed his frustrations at the sound crew, saying: “When are you going to reel in the stadium DJ’s who seem to think they’re on the Tomorrowland main-stage when the game kicks off?”
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