When the Springboks smashed the British and Irish Lions in Cape Town in 2021 to celebrate their emergence from Covid-19 lockdown, it was exactly 130 years since they had played their first match, also against the British Lions. There has never been a dull moment in between as the Boks have taken South Africans on a roller coaster ride of success and setback but, more importantly, there has always been rich entertainment.

Springbok history boasts a treasure trove of tales about colourful characters and riveting dramas and seasoned rugby scribe Mike Greenaway has brought a host of them back to life in his meticulously researched book. The tales in this collection begin in the 1890s and cover every era of Springbok history right up to the present day. The Fireside Springbok is a hardcover coffee table book.

Richly illustrated, there are cartoons by the much-loved Dr Jack while rare black-and-white photographs capture the mood of the historical chapters and award-winning photographers supplement the modern inclusions. This book is a collection of heart-warming stories that will bring a smile to a reader who is perhaps ensconced in an easy chair, maybe next to a glowing fire and enjoying a favorite tipple. The book will hit the shelves two months before the Springboks leave for France to defend their World Cup title in September this year.