
South Africa and New Zealand's rivalry enters a modern commercial era
New Zealand's rugby tour of South Africa tests a new commercial venture between the unions, as the Springboks aim to cement their status as the world's dominant rugby power.

New Zealand's rugby tour of South Africa tests a new commercial venture between the unions, as the Springboks aim to cement their status as the world's dominant rugby power.
Former South Africa all-rounder Chris Morris praised the SA20 tournament for creating vital pathways, scouting systems, and international exposure for young cricketers ahead of season 5.

Former New Zealand rugby star Ma'a Nonu performed a solo haka in response to the All Blacks' pre-match challenge ahead of the Sharks' 54-0 tour match defeat in Durban.

South African scientist Letodi Luki Mathulwe discovered a naturally occurring fungus that kills the African armyworm, offering a potential new biological weapon against the destructive crop pest.

Seven South African special forces members and a military officer are charged with murdering senior police detective Frans Mathipa in August 2023 as he investigated an alleged military-linked abduction of an IS militant.
Pakistan Cricket Board is set to appoint South African former first‑class cricketer Michael Smith as its new full‑time batting coach, starting with the three‑Test England tour beginning August 19. The move follows recurring collapses, especially in Tests, and aims to improve performance under pressure.
A five-year study in South Africa found that 11 elephants released from captivity exhibited behavior and stress hormone levels very similar to wild elephants, proving their ability to successfully reintegrate into natural environments and regain independence.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin revealed his preferred squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Ashwin notably included veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar while excluding prominent players like Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson from his selection.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin revealed his preferred squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, categorizing players into 'Yes', 'Maybe', and 'No'. Notably, veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar was a 'Yes' pick, while Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson were excluded from his squad.
A five-year study in South Africa found that 11 elephants, rewilded after years in captivity, successfully adapted to natural environments, exhibiting behavior and stress levels similar to wild elephants. This research provides strong evidence for the resilience and adaptability of captive elephants.

Lyle Hewitson secured a winning return to South Africa, riding Erik Dubois to victory in the Group One World Pool Moment Of The Day Champion Stakes at Greyville, marking trainer Louis Goosen's first Group One win after 35 years.

Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old South African midfielder, found football as his 'safe space' amidst a life marked by socioeconomic challenges and personal tragedies, ultimately rising to international acclaim before his sudden death.

A South African court has temporarily halted a parliamentary inquiry into President Cyril Ramaphosa's potential impeachment over the 'Farmgate' scandal. The Western Cape high court's ruling grants Ramaphosa time to challenge an independent panel's findings, which had suggested he might have a case to answer regarding cash stolen from his private farm.
Traces of ancient grass bedding found in South Africa's Border Cave reveal that prehistoric hunter-gatherers meticulously prepared and maintained their sleeping areas, using fire to clear old layers and deter pests, offering insights into early human culture.

The US government cited an "unforeseen emergency" to expand its refugee program, reserving 10,000 spots for white South Africans, a move critics link to South Africa's ICJ genocide case against Israel and its BRICS alignment. Experts deny claims of white persecution, calling the policy politicized and undermining US moral authority.

A 70-year-old woman has been placed under formal investigation in France for the death of British-South African mother Karen Carter, 65, who was found with stab wounds near her car in Trémolat, Dordogne, last year.

Morocco faces a "herculean task" preparing to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, budgeting £4bn-£4.8bn for direct football investments and £17bn for infrastructure upgrades. This accelerated expenditure, equivalent to 11.9% of its 2024 GDP, raises public concerns about costs versus long-term benefits, prompting lessons from past hosts like South Africa.

A 70-year-old woman is under formal investigation in France for the death of British-South African mother-of-four Karen Carter, 65. Carter was found with stab wounds in Trémolat, Dordogne, last year. Her husband described her as an outgoing, friendly person whose death has been "traumatic" for the family.

Jayden Adams, 25, South African midfielder who played in all group-stage matches at this year's World Cup, has died. Cause of death not disclosed; police investigation opened.
Teenage sensation Lhuan-dre Pretorius, 20, prioritizes Test cricket over lucrative franchise leagues like IPL and MLC. He holds South Africa's record for youngest Test centurion with 153 runs off 160 balls.

Nature Environment and Wildlife Conservation Trust (NEWF), founded by Pragna Parsotam-Kok and Noel Kok, trains African filmmakers and scientists in wildlife documentary production and diving. Initially facing a lack of African voices in the industry, NEWF has trained hundreds, fostering authentic storytelling and regional music composition, with its fellows achieving international recognition.

England's rugby squad for the Fiji match includes newcomers Benhard Janse van Rensburg and Noah Caluori, both set to earn their first caps from the bench. Bristol prop George Kloska is also in line for his Test debut. Janse van Rensburg, 29, qualifies via residency, while 19-year-old Caluori is a top try-scorer.
Lhuan-dre Pretorius scored an unbeaten 102 off 52 balls, including 10 fours and five sixes, to guide San Francisco Unicorns to a nine-wicket victory over MI New York in the Major League Cricket. The win propelled the Unicorns to the top of the points table.
AB de Villiers discusses the challenges facing Test cricket, attributing its decline to the allure of T20 leagues like the IPL. He emphasizes the need for better administration and financial incentives to revive interest in the longest format, while also reflecting on the pressures faced by young talents like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.