A Springboks legend is born
Springboks skipper Francois Pienaar accepts the Rugby World Cup trophy from South Africa president Nelson Mandela
© Getty Images
1967
Former South Africa captain Francois Pienaar was born in Vereeniging in Gauteng. The rugged flanker, capped 29 times by the Springboks, most famously led his country to the Rugby World Cup crown on home soil in 1995. Following his side's dramatic 15-12 victory over New Zealand, Pienaar received the trophy from President Mandela - creating an iconic image that transcended the world of sport. He began his first-class career with Transvaal, steering them to the inaugural Super 10 title and the Currie Cup, and would make his international bow the same year. His relatively brief international career ended ignominiously when coach Andre Markgraaff unceremoniously dropped him ahead of the 1996 Tri-Nations Test with New Zealand. He ended his playing days with English side Saracens before retiring in 2000.
1982
Erika Roe made Twickenham's most famous streak while Bill Beaumont gave his half-time talk to an England side on course for a 15-11 win against Australia. A try from flanker Nick Jeavons and three penalties from fullback Marcus Rose put the hosts on course for victory but the match is best remembered Roe's topless run across the field of England's HQ. "I was trying to get through to the boys - but most of them seemed to be gazing over my shoulder," recalled Beaumont after the game.
1954
Jack Kyle captains Ulster to a repeat of their 1935 result against the All Blacks. The Irish province holds Bob Stuart's Fourth All Blacks to a 5-all draw at Ravenhill.
1892
England opened a Triple Crown season in which they did not concede a single point by comprehensively defeating Wales 17-0 on Blackheath's Rectory Field.
1911
France recorded their first victory in an international match, beating Scotland 16-15 in Paris.
1941
A German landmine landed in Cardiff causing extensive damage to the Arms Park ground.
1932
South Africa's Gerry Brand sealed a 7-0 victory against England at Twickenham with a dropped goal from inside his own half.
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