JOHANNESBURG – It's the day South African cricket fans have dreamt about for nearly three decades.
The Proteas touch down at OR Tambo International Airport as champions.
After years of near-misses, they return home with the ICC World Test Championship mace, having conquered Australia at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Social media has become a celebration zone, filled with pride and joy. This was clear when eNCA asked viewers to send messages of congratulations to the champions.
On X, Kelly R painted a vivid picture of the emotions they were feeling: "Forget chopping onions, someone may as well have ripped open my tear ducts the way I'm crying."
Reflecting on the game, Kelly R said the Proteas faced a very strong Australian line-up but never lost their nerve.
"They turned it around and didn't look back. You can see that they trust each other. They trust their coaches. They trust their leadership group. They also trust themselves. More and more, they resemble South Africa - not perfectly but they will get there."
Another user, Gabonewe Setshedi, praised the team's performance.
"You have the skills, the talent, and the determination that made you achieve this milestone. Perfectly done."
On Facebook, the sentiments were the same.
Jeremy Delcarme said he viewed this as a momentous moment.
"I thought that I would never live to see our beloved Proteas winning any major trophies ever. Thanks, guys I cried with happiness."
The same was echoed by another user who welcomed the boys home and congratulated them on their victory.