"Springbok" has been SAA's callsign for a VERY long time. Prior to 1994, all sporting teams or individuals that attained national status were referred to as "Springboks". Post 1994, the name "Springbok" was dropped for all sporting codes with the exception of Rugby. NB: The "Sprinkbok" was started within Rugby, all other sports then adopted the same mantle.
Yes BA (operated in SAfrica by Comair) is the carrier that the Boks use. They won this contract from SAA after SAA screwed around when the SAA/Bok contract was up for renewal and SAA was not able to get their sh1t together. BA stepped in and won the contract.
So, it was by no means ironic that the Boks flew home via BA.
Go Bokke !!!!!!!