When Temba Bavuma and his team raised the ICC World Test Championship Mace at Lord’s in June, it was more than a sporting victory. It was a turning point in South Africa’s cricketing story – the first ICC trophy in 27 years and only the second in the nation’s history.
For the Proteas Men, it was a moment of pride and redemption. For the country, it was a reminder of how sport has the power to heal, to unite, and to inspire generations.
Now, that story comes home. On Tuesday, 23 September 2025, the Proteas Men will embark on a six-city Mace Tour to bring South Africans face-to-face with the most prestigious prize in cricket.
Over four days, the coveted trophy will travel through Kimberley, Bloemfontein, Durban, Gqeberha, East London, and Cape Town, giving communities a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience this in their own backyard.
A Trophy with Global Weight, A Victory with Local Heart
The ICC Test Championship Mace has been the symbol of cricket supremacy since 2001. For a younger nation like South Africa, lifting it carries special meaning. It says to the world: despite our challenges, we can rise, we can compete, and we can triumph on the grandest stage.
Connecting to Community Legacy
South Africa’s cricketing heritage has always been deeply rooted in its communities – from the township clubs that nurtured hidden talent in spite of apartheid restrictions, to the schools and grassroots programmes that still shape tomorrow’s stars. This Mace does not belong to one team, one province, or one generation. It belongs to everyone who has ever picked up a bat in a dusty field, cheered in the stands until they were hoarse, or believed in the Proteas dream.
More Than Celebration: A Call to the Future
The Mace Tour is not just about celebration – it is about inspiration. By bringing the trophy to the fans – young and old – the Proteas hope to light the spark that will grow the next generation of cricketers. This is a chance for every child to see that world-class greatness can begin anywhere – from backyard games to community clubs – and that they, too, can write the next chapter of South African cricket.
Captain’s Message
Proteas captain Temba Bavuma reflected on the meaning of the tour:
“This is not just our trophy. It is South Africa’s trophy. We lifted it, but it belongs to everyone who stood behind us – in villages, cities, and schools across the country. Sharing it with our people is the most important part of this journey.”
An Invitation to South Africans
Cricket South Africa, the Proteas, and management, invite South Africans from various parts of the country to come together, celebrate together, meet their heroes, and see the ICC Test Championship Mace, which holds so much meaning for our nation, for themselves.
“Our aim on this tour is to share this significant moment with as many fans as possible, whether they live in small towns, or large, whether from the centre of SA, or at the coast. This is a once-in-a-generation chance to see an iconic symbol of cricket’s highest honour up close – and to revel a victory that unites us,” Public Affairs Executive, Refentse Shinners said.
#ProteasMaceTour
Mace Tour Programme:
Tuesday, 23 September 2025: Kimberley and Bloemfontein
08:30 – 10:00: Diamond Oval Stadium Photo Opportunity and Signing Session – Kimberley
12:30 – 14:00: Tshoseletso High School – Rocklands, Bloemfontein
17:00 – 18:30: Airport Meet and Greet – King Shaka International, Durban
Wednesday, 24 September 2025: Durban and Gqeberha
09:30 – 12:00: Castle Lager Braai Day at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium – Durban
17:30 – 18:30: Boardwalk Mall Photo Opportunity and Signing Session – Gqeberha
Thursday, 25 September 2025: Gqeberha and East London
08:00 – 10:00: Captain’s Panel Discussion – Grey High School, Gqeberha
14:00 – 16:00: City Bus Parade – King Williams Town → Mdantsane Township → East London CBD
16:00 – 17:30: City Hall Fan Photo Opportunity and Signing Session – East London
Friday, 26 September 2025: Cape Town
12:00 – 13:00: Fan Meet & Greet, Grand Parade – Cape Town
13:00 – 14:45: CBD Open Bus Parade – Cape Town
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