This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
South African rugby player Damian de Allende won the World Cup in November 2019, but it wasn't until he was stuck in Japan during the coronavirus lockdown that he had time to fully digest the enormity of the win.
De Allende, a key figure in the Springbok team, told Netwerk24 newspaper group that he had a huge smile on his face whenever he watched highlights of the tournament on TV.
“Time flies during a World Cup tournament and it had really not sunk in just how we won it,” de Allende said.
De Allende's team played a crucial semi-final match against Wales in Yokohama, where he powered through the opposition for the opening try of the 19-16 victory.
After the World Cup, de Allende returned to Japan to play for Panasonic Wild Knights in the Japan Top League, but the season was cut short due to the lockdown.
De Allende is now set to start a new adventure with Munster in Ireland, where he will play under former Springbok assistant coach Johann van Graan.
“I am keen for a new challenge and want to see the world,” de Allende said.
Meanwhile, the head of Australia's National Rugby League, Todd Greenberg, stepped down with immediate effect on April 20, 2020, due to the COVID-19 crisis.
