Sports News 12:30

BULLETIN SPORTS NEWS 7 February 12:30 pm

Good day, let’s look at the latest sports news and scores:

# The Department of International Relations and Cooperation says the advisory issued by the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria is regrettable. The commission has called for caution over what it describes as veiled threats against Nigerians living in South Africa. This is ahead of the two nations’ semifinal match at the Africa Cup of Nations today. The commission urged its citizens to refrain from provocative celebrations should the Super Eagles win. Dirco’s spokesperson, Clayson Monyela, says the advisory seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension:

# Cricket: New Zealand has defeated South Africa by 281 runs in the opening Test at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui, to take a one-nil lead in the two-match series. The Proteas were set an unlikely target of 529 to win after the hosts declared on their overnight total of 179 for four. A 105-run partnership for the fifth wicket between David Bedingham and Keegan Petersen was not enough as South Africa was dismissed for 247 in 80 overs. The second and final Test begins next week Tuesday in Hamilton.

Meanwhile, the defending champions, the Sunrisers Eastern Cape beat the Durban Super Giants by 51 runs in qualifier one at Newlands to power into their second consecutive SA20 final. The Sunrisers posted 157 for eight with Dawid Malan top-scoring with 63. In reply, Marco Jansen and Ottniel Baartman claimed four wickets each as the Super Giants were bowled out for just 106 with three balls remaining in the innings. Sunrisers’ coach, Adrian Birrell, says the team has been impressive throughout the tournament:

# Rugby: The president of SA Rugby, Mark Alexander, says the composition of the Springboks’ new coaching team is aimed at the ultimate objective of claiming a hat-trick of World Cup titles in a row at the next tournament in Australia. The union confirmed Rassie Erasmus’s return as head coach until 2027, relinquishing his position as director of rugby, which will not be filled again. Erasmus added big names, including former All Black flyhalf Tony Brown, former Ireland hooker Jerry Flannery, retired Bok eighthman Duane Vermeulen and retired referee Jaco Peyper.

And finally, in more Rugby news, France lock Paul Willemse has received a four-week suspension following his red card against Ireland in the Six Nations last week Friday. He was issued a yellow card in the eighth minute for a high tackle on Andrew Porter. This was followed by a second yellow card for another high tackle, this time on Caelan Doris, which was upgraded into a red after a bunker review. A panel found the 31-year-old guilty of two acts of foul play. The suspension means Willemse will miss the games against Scotland and Italy.

Stay tuned for more news………….