Springboks national anthem singer: ‘I never forgot the words’

It was twice the excitement and nerves for South African-born national anthem singer Keshia Paulse, who represented both her home country and her adoptive one at the Springboks vs All Blacks match on Saturday, 15 July.

And despite emigrating to New Zealand over two decades ago, the singer remembered every word of the national anthem.

The match – won by the All Blacks 35- 20 – was played at the Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland.

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SPRINGBOKS SINGER: ‘ONE OF MY PROUDEST MOMENTS’

Speaking to The South African, Keshia Paulse reflected on the defining moment of singing SA’s national anthem.

She said: “It was definitely one of my proudest moments to date. It was very overwhelming being up there and a beautiful way for me to connect back to my home again.

And while she may be considered a “Kiwi,” Paulse was rooting for the Boks to win.

She added: “I’ve been in NZ for over 20 years now and feel connected to both countries/teams, of course, but last night would have been amazing to see the Springboks win”.

Keshia – who still has family living in SA – did not have to practise much for her national anthem performance.

She said: “I’ve always known the words, never forgot them.”

WATCH: NATIONAL ANTHEM MOVES CROWD TO TEARS

While many South Africans wept at the loss of the Springboks to All Blacks, it was tears of joy during the performance of the national anthem.

And even Boks captain Eben Ezebeth – who tragically lost his father earlier this week – was also visibly emotional.

Take a look…

@jksiataga_nz I love their Anthem!! #rugbychampionship #southafrica #allbkacks #nationalanthem #fyp #foryoupage #lovethis @Springboks.rugby @AllBlacks ♬ original sound – Josh Kahn Siataga

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