FNB Varsity Shield Players That Impressed - Round 2

The second round of the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield delivered emphatic performances and high-scoring encounters across the country. FNB Wits set the tone with a ruthless 51-0 shutout of FNB UFH, producing a commanding home display to register their first victory in front of their supporters this season.

The Cape derby belonged to FNB UWC, who showcased attacking precision and composure to defeat FNB CPUT 51-32 at UWC Stadium. In Gqeberha, FNB Madibaz responded in style, thrilling a lively home crowd with a dominant 60-32 triumph over FNB UKZN, underlining their attacking firepower. On the road, FNB WSU flexed their muscle in the Northern Cape, securing an impressive 48-22 victory against FNB SPU at Suzuki Stadium to round off a statement-making weekend.

Here is our selection for standout players from round 2.

Aaron Swartz (FNB UWC)

“We had a plan; the coaches gave us a plan. The plan was to keep it tight, structured, organized. We executed that and just as the coaches said, we organized very well and executed our moves.

“I'm very happy with my performance also for the team, leaving it all out there - I'm proud of the boys. Without them I couldn't get many of the matches. It's a blessing to play with these kinds of folks.”

Bryce Samuel (FNB Wits)

Samuel was one of the standout players for his team. The number nine was influential, gallied his troops well, and controlled the game. He was shown a yellow card at some point but returned on the field and pulled strings for his side. He’s one to watch in the future.

Sipho Hobosch (FNB WSU)

Sipho Hobosch was influential for his side and gave them front foot ball and go forward momentum. The eight man was everywhere, led his troops well, and controlled the tempo of the game well more especially at scrum time and line out time. He also played a hand in two of his team’s tries, and he will be crucial if the side is to go far in this year’s tournament.

Sean van Zijl (FNB Madibaz)

The dynamic loose-forward was instrumental in shifting momentum decisively in FNB Madibaz’s favour. His 36th-minute try stretched the lead at a crucial stage, and his physical presence and work rate around the park laid the platform for Madibaz’s dominant second-half surge.

Watch all the round 2 highlights HERE.