Ox Nche: ‘Emotional’ Springboks fans did ‘not understand All Blacks tradition’ after haka ‘disrespect’

Springboks prop Ox Nche believes that South African supporters did not understand the “significance” of the haka during New Zealand’s recent tour.

The first Test between the two sides got off to a bad start when an ill-timed flyover disrupted the war dance before the clash in Johannesburg.

Boks fans also sang ‘Ole Ole’ while the All Blacks were performing the haka in an act which has been branded “disrespectful.”

Highly regrettable

SA Rugby also reached out to apologise, describing the pre-game events as “highly regrettable”.

The whole furore seemed to have an impact, however, as the crowd fell silent ahead of the Springboks’ 18-12 triumph in Cape Town.

“I know South Africans can be very emotional and when they love something they love it with their entire being,” Nche told IOL.

“For me, I’ve been an ABs [All Blacks] fan for so long. I actually understand what it means for the All Blacks to perform a haka.

“I know the significance of it. For me, it was them maybe not understanding the New Zealand tradition. Or why people actually do a haka.”

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Nche started both games against the All Blacks as the Springboks took their winning run against New Zealand to a stunning four successive matches.

“I haven’t fully digested it yet, but it’s something epic. Even as a kid, I knew you don’t just do that, it takes a special effort,” the prop added.

Impact of Springboks success

It continues what has been a special era for South African rugby. They have achieved plenty on the field, winning back-to-back World Cups, and have inspired people off it, providing a real uniting presence for the country.

“It’s amazing. Hopefully it means that people are changing their mindset from how the old South Africa used to be and actually working together, seeing each other as countrymen and brothers and sisters instead of seeing something else,” Nche said.

“We are seeing a person for their character and actually getting to know someone, and not just having a preconceived [idea] – looking past the stereotypes.

“That’s something I hope to inspire South Africans to go out and reach their goals.

“They don’t have to play rugby to be considered the best at what they do, so I hope as the Springboks we inspire them to go out there and be the best versions of what they can be.”

READ MORE: Why the All Blacks prayed before the Haka and wore armbands against the Springboks