The FNB Varsity Cup has once again pushed the boundaries of rugby innovation with the introduction of the exciting new Tap or Kick rule for the 2026 season. Long regarded as the tournament that leads the way in shaping the modern game, the FNB Varsity Cup continues to experiment with laws designed to promote attacking rugby and produce pressure moments that create unforgettable fan experiences. Tap or Kick delivers exactly that. What is Tap or Kick? After scoring a try, the attacking team now has a choice: Kick for the traditional two-point conversion, taking their total to seven points, or Tap and launch an immediate attacking play from the 22-metre line for the chance to score an additional try worth five points. If the Tap option is successful a team can walk away with a full 10 points from a single scoring sequence. It’s rugby’s version of a power play. High risk, big reward. How it Works: Once a try is scored, the team has 20 seconds to decide between Tap or Kick. If they choose Tap: Play restarts from the 22-metre line in line with where the try was scored. The defending team must retreat 10 metres. The attacking side has 120 seconds to score. No scrums, lineouts or drop goals are allowed during this period. If the attacking team loses possession or infringes, the opportunity ends immediately. If the defending team wins the ball and scores during that two-minute window, they earn five points themselves, adding another layer of drama. Each team may use the Tap option twice per half — use it wisely or lose it. The rule also introduces additional scoring variations: A successful Tap following a Point Of Origin (POR) try results in a potential 12-point haul. If a penalty try is awarded and the team chooses to Tap, the automatic conversion does not apply. The try is worth five points, with the opportunity to add five more via Tap.   By introducing Tap or Kick, the FNB Varsity Cup reinforces its reputation as the most forward-thinking university rugby competition in the country. It is not just about identifying tomorrow’s stars, it’s about shaping how the game is played tomorrow.

With Sabelo Kolanisi at the helm, the Blues charge into the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield season driven by renewed belief, clear purpose, and an unshakable hunger to make their mark. The former Walter Sisulu and Border Under-21 assistant coach brings fresh direction while building on an already solid foundation. According to Kolanisi, preparations have been intense, focused, and a clear reflection of the squad’s determination to raise their standard this season. “Preparations have been going smoothly. Most of last year’s players are still here, and they’ve combined very well with the new players,” said Kolanisi. “The team spirit is there - the players are eager to learn under the new coaching staff.” Continuity could prove vital for the Blues, with 80 percent of last season’s squad retained. The combination of experienced campaigners and exciting new talent has strengthened team chemistry. Adding further value is the presence of the former Fort Hare coach who led the team to Varsity Shield glory in 2022 now as a consultant. Our expectation is to reach the semi-final stage this year,” he said. “We have four home games, and we want to collect maximum points there. If we can win at least three games, the rest becomes possible.” “We’re taking every game as a final. Even when we play away, we must come back with points.” An attack specialist, Kolanisi has introduced adaptable tactical plans, including strategies suited for rainy and windy conditions. “We’ve prepared different approaches so that we can adjust and still control the game,” he explained. Players to watch for the Blues include exciting new signings Liyema Ngoyi on the left wing and versatile back Unathi Mayekiso, both expected to make an immediate impact. Providing leadership and experience at the core are captain Liso Jali and powerful lock Liyema Hlithani, who will play key roles throughout the season.   FNB UFH Provisional Squad Salusiwe Gxekwa, Liyabona Matyana, Bulumko Mfundisi, Khanyisa Joni, Michael Ben Mangava, Nonelela Mvuleni, Lunathi Mali, Abongile Yeye, Mivuyo Tywayi, Inga Vellem, Jali Lisolethu, Ndinani Tom, Lakheni Majali, Amile Mkatshwa, Ukho Nomsatha, Lutho Mene, Mihle Mandela, Siyolise Mockson, Mawande Sotewu, Bunono Jamani, Siyamtahnda Sakhela, Liyema Hlitane, Kamva Jengqa, Mila Mkuzangwe, Buzwe Siguqu, Iviwe Kahla, Liyema Ngoyi, Wannies Ru-Che, Liyema Tonjeni, Boitumelo Selonyane, Mihlali-Jama Ndarane, Takudzwa Rushizha, Majila Alizwa, Mbasa Babele, Unathi Mayekiso, Oyisa Odidi, Iminathi Macholi, Banele Ncoyo.   By: Thembela Tangana

After narrowly avoiding relegation in last year’s promotion/relegation playoffs, FNB UKZN enter the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield determined to make amends and rewrite the story of their 2025 campaign. Impi Head Coach Naseeb Abrahams has admitted his team’s disappointment in their performance in the past year, emphasizing that going into the playoffs wasn’t part of their plans. “Being in the relegation playoffs wasn’t something that we wanted, there was a lot of anger there [from us],” said Abrahams. We pride ourselves on being better than that, even though we are a young team we didn’t feel like we should have allowed ourselves to get to that point.” The youthfulness factor in the UKZN Impi team has been one of their vulnerabilities recently as it translates to lack of experience. On the flip side of that coin, the young Impi team has shown potential of blossoming into a creative, hard-working side that has in it, a lot of vitality. According to Abrahams, the squad has developed a lot of maturity in their off-season preparations. “Off-season preps have been good for us; we’ve brought in some good players. We’ve also developed maturity amongst our group, and a bit of belief is there as well because we’ve travelled well, we played a couple of friendlies now, we had good result and I think there’s a good resolve,” he said. “On field, I think the boys are putting in all the work, and all the effort they need to, so we are happy with where we are.” Heading into his third season now as the man at the helm of Impi, Abrahams believes his men have identified the missing parts to their game, and have worked on them - an exercise he believes has brought a lot of ‘clarity’ into his team. “I think the missing part is just winning those moments, winning those big moments in games. We were in games for most parts during last year, and we would have soft moments either scrum penalties or conceding a soft try in defense and not executing when we get into the 22 and I think that we’ve built up those pressure moments within camp… to make sure that we execute a lot better.” “For that part I think that we’re a fitter stronger team than we were, the clarity is definitely there amongst the boys, so we feel good.”   FNB UKZN Provisional Squad (subject to change): Mthomboyolo Buzani (c), Siso France, Jordan Ramsay, Uli Walker, Ntokozo Ngema, Owethu Mntwelizwe, Siyanda Dlamini, Lonwabo Nkalitshana, Siyanda Nyathi, Khanyisani Ncube, Qhawe Nxumalo, Mzwandile Khawula, Lwazi Ngcobo, Micheal Ize-Iyamu, Samkelo Mkhize, Aphelele Dlamini, Amahle Dlamini, Sikhona Ndulini, Wela Takata, Nhlankanipho Buthelezi, Zak Smith, Milowo Matebese, Minenhle Ngcamu, Juan-Lee Carolus, Raayke Maartens, Russel Fick, Lwanele Gaba, Solami Sikutshwa, Somanga Jho, Ramutuku Masiteng, Ntobeko Mhlongo, Luthando Mhlongo, Ovayo Jezile, Osman Taariq, Abulele Bolitini, Eloko Kayaeze, Olwakhe Mlambo, Phiwe Kunjana, Mnotho Khumalo, Jowan Visagie.   By: Mpendulo Letsoalo.

NEXT PREVIOUS Competition 12 Feb 2026 One lucky fan to WIN a Suzuki Swift GL+ at Varsity Cup 2026 Yes, a car! A Suzuki Swift GL+! Suzuki is bringing proper match-day madness to Varsity Cup this season with the Suzuki Car That Rocks competition, where fans stand a chance to drive away with the ultimate prize: a Suzuki Swift GL+. How to enter: All you need to do is scan the QR code at the Suzuki activation at match days and enter. That’s it. One scan could win you a car! And while the grand prize is the headline, the Suzuki vibe doesn’t stop there. At selected games, you’ll spot the Varsity Cup-branded Swift GL+ on display, so you can see the prize up close. Then comes the chaos with the Suzuki Box Car Race at half-time. Teams of three race through a cone course while holding Suzuki box-car cut-outs, a proper test of pace, balance, and teamwork under pressure. The winners bag bluetooth speakers and the kind of bragging rights that don’t expire. As in previous seasons there is also the Suzuki Rookie of The Year award where you will get to vote for the players who had the biggest breakthrough debut season. So whether you’re sprinting for prizes or scanning for the big one, Suzuki is giving fans a reason to pull in, show up, and go for it. One scan. One Swift. Who’s NXT? BACK FAN ZONE VIEW ALL VIEW ALL STEERS to bring real vibes, flavour and match-day moments to FNB Varsity Cup 2026 23 April 2022 READ Competition Campus Launches: Bringing “Who’s NXT?” to Every University 23 April 2022 READ CSI FNB Varsity Cup & Shield 2026 National Launch Delivers High Energy Showcase at V&A Waterfront 23 April 2022 READ Competition Varsity Cup Varsity Shield Young Guns Varsity Cup Women Tickets Teams Fan Zone News Videos Photo Gallery About © 2023 Varsity Cup. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions | VC Way |

Fan Zone Campus Launches: Bringing “Who’s NXT?” to Every University 23 April 2022 CSI READ 2026 WIN Time to show your moves in the FNB Groove dance challenge 23 April 2022 READ Competition STEERS to bring real vibes, flavour and match-day moments to FNB Varsity Cup 2026 23 April 2022 READ Competition One lucky fan to WIN a Suzuki Swift GL+ at Varsity Cup 2026 23 April 2022 READ Competition Campus Launches: Bringing “Who’s NXT?” to Every University 23 April 2022 READ CSI FNB Varsity Cup & Shield 2026 National Launch Delivers High Energy Showcase at V&A Waterfront 23 April 2022 READ Competition You're invited to the FNB Varsity Cup and Shield 2026 National Launch at the V&A Waterfront! 23 April 2022 READ Competition Meet Pokkel, the most mischevious Varsity Cup mascot 23 April 2022 READ Competition Getting to Know the Mascots: UJ’s loveable Hoepie 23 April 2022 READ Competition Meet FNB UWC's mascot Cara The Caracal! 23 April 2022 READ CSI Varsity Cup Varsity Shield Young Guns Varsity Cup Women Tickets Teams Fan Zone News Videos Photo Gallery About © 2023 Varsity Cup. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions | VC Way |

Rugby that rocks 2026 VARSITY CUP VARSITY CUP VARSITY SHIELD VARSITY SHIELD YOUNG GUNS YOUNG GUNS VARSITY CUP WOMEN VARSITY CUP WOMEN LATEST NEWS READ READ 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 15:00 Loading Live Loading Loading - - BUY TICKETS MATCH CENTRE Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg UPCOMING FIXTURES VIEW ALL VIEW ALL Coming soon RESULTS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg Pos Team PL W D L TS PD BP PTS - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 LOGS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL RESULTS VIEW ALL 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg Coming soon UPCOMING FIXTURES VIEW ALL VIEW ALL 15:00 Loading Live Loading Loading - - BUY TICKETS MATCH CENTRE Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 Pos Team PL W D L TS PD BP PTS LOGS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL UPCOMING FIXTURES VIEW ALL VIEW ALL 15:00 Loading Live Loading Loading - - BUY TICKETS MATCH CENTRE Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg Coming soon RESULTS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg LOGS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL Pos Team PL W D L TS PD BP PTS - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 - Loading 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 RESULTS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading - - Loading FIXTURES Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg Coming soon UPCOMING FIXTURES VIEW ALL VIEW ALL 15:00 Loading Live Loading Loading - - BUY TICKETS MATCH CENTRE Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg 00:00 Loading Loading Loading - BUY TICKETS Watch on Wits Rugby Stadium, Johannesburg LOGS VIEW ALL VIEW ALL - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - Loading 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Pos Team PL W D L TS PD BP PTS LATEST VIDEOS READ VIEW ALL FNB Varsity Cup final: FNB Maties vs FNB UCT - 14 April 2025 15 Apr 2025 FNB Varsity Shield final HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Varsity College vs FNB Madibaz - 11 April 11 Apr 2025 FNB Varsity Cup Women Final HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Maties vs FNB Tuks - 11 April 11 Apr 2025 FAN ZONE READ VIEW ALL Campus Launches: Bringing “Who’s NXT?” to Every University CSI 12 Feb 2026 READ One lucky fan to WIN a Suzuki Swift GL+ at Varsity Cup 2026 Competition 12 Feb 2026 READ Item Title CATEGORY 23 April 2022 READ TITLE SPONSOR SPONSORS PREFERRED SUPPLIERS Varsity Cup Varsity Shield Young Guns Varsity Cup Women Tickets Teams Fan Zone News Videos Photo Gallery About © 2023 Varsity Cup. All rights reserved | Privacy Policy Privacy Policy Terms & Conditions | VC Way |