Winning hearts and minds have become a by-product of the Springboks' success since Rassie Erasmus took the reins in 2018.
Two Rugby World Cup triumphs, a Rugby Championship title, a series success over the British Irish Lions and breaking win droughts in New Zealand, Australia and England were achieved as the face and perception of the national team gradually changed.
Underpinned by the coach's desire for the team to win, transform while building squad depth the Springboks have gone from the most reviled during the apartheid years to the most revered sports team in South Africa.
They, however, still have their detractors with many rugby lovers in the Western Cape in particular making no secret of their devotion to the All Blacks' brand.
It is a phenomenon that is more difficult to explain the deeper South Africa journeys into its democratic path.
