The National Assembly's final sitting of the year ended with a laugh as National Action co-leader Cassie Aucamp gave his selections for a Springbok team from the ranks of politicians.

"At fullback, we chose Tony Leon (DA leader), because of his ability to fight back from behind. After his marriage to the CP, Pieter Mulder (FF+ leader) will occupy the right wing."

Others would include Jeremy Cronin (SACP) as left wing.

Inside centre would be Defence Minister Mosiuoa Lekota as "he has proved this year he can take a lot of tackles".

Flyhalf would be Health Minister Manto Tshabalala-Msimang as "she tends to drop everything that comes her way". At scrumhalf, Justice Minister Penuell Maduna "knows how to kick for touch when in trouble".

Tighthead prop would be Sports Minister Ngconde Balfour, as "the only quota player in the team, the rest being chosen on merit".

Deputy President Jacob Zuma would be a flank as "he has proved over and over again he will never get a yellow card", while the captain would be President Thabo Mbeki, "provided the team is playing overseas".

With acknowledgements to Sapa and the Cape Times.