Great Expectations

This Sunday the pride of this multicultural nation was visible all across the country. In every nook and corner, when the All Blacks took on the Springboks in the semi-finals.

The way each and every person in New Zealand backed their heroes, shows that sports are indeed the unifying moments of pride.

And our heroes did not disappoint. They fought like soldiers till the very last minute in this “brutal” face off.

It appears, the Victorian Cross recipient soldier and the most trusted New Zealander, William Apiata’s visits to the All Blacks, before their matches, are proving to be a good omen. As reported in the media, he had distributed them the winning jerseys before the 2011 World Cup semi-finals and he was by their side again in Twickenham this Saturday.

His “calming words” must have been the inspiration that helped Richie McCaw and the team maintain the composure in this close shave.

We hope this winning streak continues into the finals.

Being so near the final victory reminds me of a day down my memory lane, to my school days in India.

It was our Annual Sports day and the guest of honour was the Chief of Army Staff.

The Principal of our school, while welcoming the guests and encouraging the players, said that” what was important in games is not winning but participating whole heartedly”. But our Chief Guest, Lt-General of the Armed Forces, in his address said that he differed with what our Principal had said. According to the General, “Once you have battled against all odds to manage the ball to the striking area, you cannot just participate whole heartedly. You MUST score and win.”

Reflecting back I think neither of them was wrong given their individual roles, responsibilities and professions. A teacher has to encourage all his students, while a soldier has to be a ruthless dare devil with a clear aim, without room for any doubt or error. A General all the more, as he has to lead from the front.

Therefore, it will not be an exaggeration to say that, the Nation’s expectations from Richie McCaw and the team are now even greater and stronger than Charles Dicken’s pip. Each one of us in New Zealand is now waiting with bated breath for our heroes to bring home the World Cup Trophy.

Even more so, since even Sir Graham Henry believes that the “current All Blacks side is probably the best New Zealand have ever provided”.

So at this crucial juncture it is hoped that our heroes will play the role outlined by the General in his words rather than the one mentioned by the principal.

We are hoping that the All Blacks will drive the inspiration from William Apiata, and fight like soldiers to do us all proud once again.

Who knows, a victory may even influence the debate on the flag.

Gurbrinder Aulakh is a lawyer practicing at Auckland and the Deputy-Chair of Auckland Regional Migrant Services.

© Scoop Media