At the halfway mark of the 2024 FNB Varsity Shield competition, FNB UP-Tuks and FNB Madibaz are the only unbeaten teams and occupy the top two positions on the log. The third position belongs to FNB Varsity Shield while FNB WSU are in fourth.
Here are some of the standout players from round 4.
Chad-Lee Valentine (FNB UP-Tuks)
Chad-Lee Valentine played an important role in the Stripe Generation’s massive victory over debutants FNB Varsity College. The nippy scrumhalf disrupted the opponent’s play in and around the maul, while at the same time guiding Tuks in their driving mauls. The 22-year-old was at the centre of Tuks’ communication and managed to get his name on the score sheet through a cheeky piece of play.
High School: Hoërskool Garsfontein
Provincial representation: U16 Grant Khomo Week, U18 Academy Week, U18 Craven Week
Mzwakhe Hlupheko (FNB Madibaz)
Mzwakhe Hlupheko was massive at the breakdown and deserved all the credit that came his way in the hard-fought victory over FNB WSU. The burly flanker didn’t give an inch and stopped wave after wave of attack from the opposition. With ball in hand, Hlupheko was also a force to be reckoned with. When the final whistle blew, he was awarded the accolade of the Player That Rocks.
High School: Hoërskool Middelburg
Provincial representation: U18 Academy Week
Khanya Kama (FNB UKZN)
Wearing the number ten jersey, Khanya Kama was a pivotal player in his team’s first victory of the season over FNB TUT. He contributed a try, three conversions and five penalties and was deservedly named as the Player That Rocks. The confident Kama put in a couple of solid tackles to add to his fantastic all-around performance.
High School: Queensburgh High
Provincial representation: Club Rugby
Danielle Padiachy (FNB CPUT)
Despite CPUT losing to UFH the Tekkies had moments of brilliance and on more than one occasion it was winger Danielle Padiachy who was involved. He picked up a brace in spectacular fashion as he broke the defence with speed, power and a deadly sidestep. The CPUT backline looks especially dangerous if they get the ball out wide and Padiachy is always on the hunt for the tryline.
High School: Bonnivale High School
Provincial representation: WP Rugby Academy
For next week’s fixtures, click HERE.
