Cricket South Africa and the Proteas on Tuesday reaffirmed their 100% support for Bafana Bafana, following the host nation’s exit from the 2010 FIFA World Cup, despite a 2-1 win over 1998 world champions and 2006 runners-up, France.

CSA CEO Gerald Majola congratulated Bafana Bafana, saying: “This was a great win over one of the world’s top teams in a pressurised situation.

“It is a pity that they did not advance to the last 16, but Bafana Bafana have galvanised the nation at this World Cup and they have done us all proud. They finished on a winning note, which all South Africans will cherish for a long time to come. Win or lose, CSA and the Proteas are 100% behind Bafana Bafana.

“Even though Bafana Bafana have exited the tournament, we should remember that the world’s eyes are still on South Africa, so it is important for the nation to rally behind the World Cup. We need to ensure that this tournament is long remembered as the best FIFA World Cup ever held.”

Proteas captain, Graeme Smith, said: “Bafana Bafana has represented our country with pride, energy and tremendous courage. In the process they have provided a lot of enjoyment for the nation, including those of us who have had to watch the tournament from afar.

“The hard work they have put in was rewarded with their outstanding victory over France who are acknowledged as one of the strongest soccer nations in the world and are former World Cup champions.

“If we had been told before the World Cup that they would draw with Mexico and beat France I believe most South Africans would have taken it.

“I hope that the enthusiasm and joy they have brought to all South Africans will flow through the remainder of the tournament and make this the most successful World Cup of all time.

“On a personal note I would like to congratulate Aaron Mokoena on the manner in which he has led our team.”

CSA and the Proteas launched their 100% Behind Bafana Bafana campaign 0n 21 April 2010, with 50 days to go to the World Cup.

The aim of the campaign was to show South Africans that all national teams deserve their 100% support, and has been endorsed by the South African Football Association (SAFA).

The CSA family fully supported the Football Friday initiative, with head office staff regularly wearing their Bafana Bafana shirts. Staff and members of both the men’s and women’s Proteas team have also been getting into the World Cup spirit, by learning the diski dance.