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Eerie lack of atmosphere in Cape Town

From Chris Foy IN CAPE TOWN

A FEW HOURS before this thunderous series opener, there was very little sense of occasion here. There were no hordes of rugby fans gathering. There were very few clues that a Test was taking place at all.

Down by the harbour, the popular waterfront area was busy with families enjoying a sunny, warm winter’s day. They swarmed around the shops, restaurants and markets, but only a few Springbok shirts could be seen. So much effort had gone in to making sure this fixture went ahead despite the recent Covid chaos, but there were literally no signs of it, anywhere. No flags, no banners, no billboards, no advertising campaigns, nothing.

For such a momentous sporting event, it all felt strangely low-key in the host city. It had long been known that there would not be a crowd in attendance at the match, but it was still surprising that the local population appeared oblivious, less than a mile from the venue. If they had been allowed in, the Red Army from Britain and Ireland would have relished coming to this modern arena by the sea. It was such a shame that none were here to witness an historic success against the world champions, in glorious surroundings.

There were a few people around Cape Town Stadium, including a couple from Lancashire, wearing the shirts of both teams — waiting for a glimpse of the players arriving. They would have had a closeup view, as the roads and walkways were deserted.

The Lions have become used to playing in front of empty seats, but those who have played in Tests on past tours will have been struck by the eerie lack of atmosphere. At least organisers attempted to create a vibrant backdrop, with flares, fireworks and Zulu warriors.

Even without anyone to entertain, the stadium announcer was in fine form, with plenty of quips. When Hamish Watson’s picture appeared on the screen, he celebrated the Scot’s mullet hairstyle by saying ‘it’s business at the front and party at the back’.

So much elite sport has felt strange and surreal in this Covid period, but this event felt stranger than most.

Just imagine the tribal fervour if the stadium had been packed to the rafters.

Lions 2021

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2021-07-25T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-07-25T07:00:00.0000000Z

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