Rugby-Springboks green with envy as Lions turn Durban red

By Mitch Phillips

DURBAN, June 19 (Reuters) - The influx of thousands of red-clad British and Irish Lions fans ahead of Saturday's first test has persuaded South African officials to plead with their own fans to turn up wearing Springbok green.

Acting SA Rugby managing director Andy Marinos said on Friday there was a "red tide pouring into Durban".

"Every four years stadiums across the southern hemisphere are awash in red and the Springboks are calling on all their fans to show their support," said Marinos.

"(Coach) Peter de Villiers, (captain) John Smit and the team are looking for your support and we want to turn the stadium into a sea of green. Wear jerseys, scarves, caps, T-shirts and wave flags -- so long as it's green and show your support for the Boks."

In 2001 Australian rugby officials handed out thousands of gold-coloured plastic rain macs to their fans for the second and third tests after seeing the crowd at the opening test in Brisbane swamped with red shirts.

Despite the huge numbers of travelling fans and the high home interest in the series, officials said on Friday that there were still tickets available for Saturday's test at the 60,000-capacity Kings Park. (Editing by Sonia Oxley; To query or comment on this story email sportsfeedback@thomsonreuters.com)