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'It is because of you that a represented Proteas team can express their talent across the globe'

The South African Cricket team that is locked in the on-going ODI series against India, was quick to pay tribute to the nation’s favourite son Nelson Mandela.

Cricket South Africa offered its initial reaction via Twitter.

"RIP Tata Mandela. It is because of you that a represented Proteas team can express their talent across the globe," it read.

"Let us now, more than ever, stick together as a nation, we owe that to him that much. Madiba, you will be missed", South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers said.

'Mandela's words were not only relevant to cricket, but also life'

"Madiba was an inspiration to the Proteas in the same way that he was to other South African teams. To us he represented so many of the qualities which we as players have looked to adopt in playing for South Africa. He always gave simple but wise advice and this had a big impact on me as leader of the team. His words will stay with me forever as they were not only relevant to cricket, but also to life," South Africa Test cricket captain Graeme Smith said.

"To a man who has changed the mindset of a nation, may we inspire and motivate as you have. You will always be remembered", said South Africa cricketer JP Duminy.