FNB UWC locked in for FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026 challenge

As the team prepares for the upcoming FNB Varsity Cup women’s campaign, their aim is to compete strongly and fight for a place in the knockout rounds.

Head coach, Mervano Da Silva, acknowledged that preparations were not entirely smooth but praised the squad for their response.

“Our preparations were hit with a few curve balls, but the players and staff have done really well to adapt to circumstances and get the team to a level where we’ll be competitive.”

Several players are expected to play key roles during the campaign. Lee-Amber Beukes, Marli George and Anja Le Roux are expected to influence games, while Akhona Nkosi, Jada Davids and Yanelisa Plaatjie will bring power and dominance to the pack.

New additions expected to make an impact include Davidene March, Ronecia Gordon, Saadiqa Corbett and Mivuyo Pawuli.

“Despite a few nerves for kick-off, the mood in the camp is positive. The ladies have really raised their standards for this season and there’s been good buy-in from the squad, so they’re locked in for the challenges ahead.”

Leading the team is captain Lee-Amber Beukes, captaining the team for the third season, for her, this role carries deep meaning.

“Captaining this team is an honour and a privilege, it’s about leading a team of strong women, pushing boundaries and making our mark.”

She says the team’s identity is built on unity and determination.

“We’re about resilience, grit and heart.”

The squad has been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for this season, putting in intense training, strategy sessions and team bonding to build unity and strength.

Beukes also highlights the importance of support from the university community.

“Student and campus support means everything to us, their energy fuels our performance and pushes us to be our best”

Despite the natural nerves that come with the start of a new season, the atmosphere in the squad remains positive.

Provisional squad (subject to change):

Akhona Nkosi, Alianna Tomanga Samanga, Alyssa Heldsinger, Amahle Plaatjies, Amaarah Abrahams, Anathi Mkiva, Asanda Mdlalose, Anja Le Roux, Asiphe Mayaba, Bubhlebethu Abongwe Vilane, Davedine March, Esona Dyanti, Fatouma Yalcoue, Gemma Thomas, Iviwe Jonas, Ivanche Gerritsen, Jada Davids, Jessica Mare, Kaylee Daniels, Lee-Amber Beukes, Lithethaa Maqhude, Manini Ayanda Khiba, Marli George, Mivuyo Pawuli, Nandile Mvandaba, Nutaylah Gasant, Oyena Dubeni, Olwethu Qotyiwe, Qaqamba Ngqabalala, Ronecia Gordon, Saadiqah Corbett, Samukelisiwe Mjweni, Sange Makwezela, Siddeeqa Arries, Sisipho Tshotsha, Yanelisa Plaatjie.

Fixtures and log HERE.