Experienced FNB UKZN Women’s head coach backs underdog Impi team

With the FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026 season almost underway, FNB UKZN Impi are embracing their underdog status with confidence, determined to turn it into their driving force as they prepare to challenge the country’s top university rugby sides.

FNB UKZN Women’s head coach, Muziwandile Malinga, who is also the Junior Springbok ladies head coach, believes that his side can bring something different to the competition this year after long preseason preparations with his team.

“I guess we will find out on the field how different our team will be this year. There is something about being an underdog that makes you want to unleash the beast in you,” he said.

“This year we looked at both our strengths and weaknesses, we were privileged to spend time as a team and worked on our team culture, mindset and skill set.”

The man at the helm of the FNB UKZN Impi Ladies backed his players’ qualities, giving a preview of some of the exciting players to watch out for.

“This team is made up of fantastic players, and we can’t wait to show case what they can do as a group.”

“We have a mixed set of players this year. Nomonde Mbanjwa did a great job for this team and has moved on to the senior Sharks set up, she is replaced by Athiphila Njiyela who has the Varsity Cup experience. Lulama Cele will be joining hands with Avela Gwala who is having a good season currently at Sharks Senior team. We also have great newcomers such as Hlekane Baloyi in the same pack. Our game drivers Sne and Bokamoso control the game so well.”

FNB UKZN Provisional Squad:

Sandulelo Nyawose, Nonduduzo Yengwa, Sphokuhle Mdletshe, Zama Mbeje, Lulama Cele, Athiphile Njiyela, Avela Gwala, Hlekane Baloyi, Asanda Mnyandu, Snethemba Mzimela, Dimpho Mogasho, Teddy Gatyana, Bokamoso anomalies, Tshepiso Maseme, Sphesihle Fihlela, Zandile Ngcobo, Paseka Manganyi, Lynndray Scorgie, Siphokazi Ndlela, Nosipho Mkhize, Mahlogonolo Nkoane, Zanele Hlongwane, Neo Mokwena.

By: Mpendulo Letsoalo