FNB UKZN retained their spot in the FNB Varsity Shield competition as they decisively beat challengers FNB DUT, 68–14, scoring 10 tries in the KZN Derby for promotion in Durban. The Impi didn’t take too long to get the scoreboard rolling as they picked up two quick early tries were in less than 5 minutes into the game. Wela-Aphumelele Takata being the first man to go over the white wash, while Jovawn Visagie scored the second try following a beautifully worked run, slicing through the DUT defense. UKZN fly-half, Siso France converted both early tries. DUT managed to get some life on the scoresheet as Andiswa Seme stole a quick run to dot down on the far right. Sxolile May successfully converting the try. FNB UKZN added two more tries before the half ended curtesy of Olwakhe Mlambo and Jovawn Visagie tries which were successfully converted by France. In between these two tries, FNB DUT scored the second and final try of the after when Luvuyo Chizama sprinted powerfully from almost 40m out to the try line. May was once again successful with the kick. Halftime came with the score looking hopeful for FNB DUT as they trailed by a thin margin of 28–14. The second half saw FNB UKZN smash in 6 more tries, as Jovawn Visagie bagged two more tries in the match. FNB DUT looked helpless as they could not hold back the Impi attack as the final whistle blew giving FNB UKZN the 68–14 victory and ensuring their safety from relegation and retaining their spot in the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield competition. FNB UKZN: 68 (28) Tries: Wela-Aphumelele Takata, Jovawn Visagie (4), Olwakhe Mlambo, Zac Smith, Jordan Ramsay, Luthando Mhlongo, Tinotenda Mazindhu. Conversions: Siso France (7), Juan-Lee Carolus (1), Tinotenda Mazindhu. FNB DUT: 14 (14) Tries: Andiswa Seme, Luvuyo Chizama. Conversion: Sxolile May (2) FNB UKZN: Ntokozo Ngema, Jordan Ramsay, Ulrich Walker, Michael Ize-Iyamu, Mthomboyolo Buzani ©, Wela-Aphumelele Takata, Aphelele Dlamini, Mzwandile Khawula, Zak Smith, Siso France, Madikane Hlumelo, Russel Fick, Jovawn Visagie Olwakhe Mlambo, Minenhle Ngcamu Replacements: Sikhona Ndulini, Siyanda Dlamini, Owethu Mntwelizwe, Nhlakanipho Buthelezi, Tinotenda Mazindhu, Milowo Matebese, Juan-Lee Carulos, Amahle Dlamini, Mzwandile Khawula, Luthando Mhlongo. FNB DUT: Siphamandla Jiyana, Siphamandla Ngubane, Lwando Mabandla, Mongezi Langa, Andiswa Seme, Mzomuhle Ntuli, Siyabonga Madonsela, Kwanda Makhoba, Simphiwe Khumalo, Sxolile May, Kamo Gcaba, Masiphile Zikhali, Luvuyo Chizama, Yayha Menacere, Inganathi Dyeshana. Replacements: Murunwa Mphaphuli, Joel Gyeke-Darko, Thabani Khumalo, Zekhethelo Mahlobo, Luntu Mbhele, Simphiwe Ngcobo, Luyanda Ngubane.

Josh du Toit’s late try rescued the Orange Army from relegation as they had to come from behind to seal a 24-21 victory over FNB Madibaz in the promotion relegation play-off match between the 7th placed FNB Varsity Cup team and the 2nd placed FNB Varssity Shield team.   UJ and Madibaz battled it out for a spot in the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup campaign. The Johannesburg side came in as favourites however the Gqeberha outfit remained up to task. It was UJ who showed early signs of hunger and determination and were awarded with a try early in the opening half. Good territorial kicking from Alzeadon Felix puts UJ forward pack in good position to pressure Madibaz. Damian Baker powers over the try-line. The Johannesburg side kept piling pressure on Madibaz and quickly doubled their lead through Kamo Molefe. Deadly attacking play from Alzeadon Felix and Adriano Jackson perfectly sets up Kamo Molefe who flew over the try-line for UJ’s second. Madibaz proved to be ready for the battle quickly as they responded with back to back tries from Jaden Witbooi and Lwando Davane. First Witbooi dotted down from a quick counter attack with a point of origin try before Kyle Erasmus sets up Lwando Davane who easily placed it in the middle. David Manuel’s troops took a slender 2-point lead at the break.   The halftime team talks proved to be stringent from both sides as the tight affair continued. UJ returned gun blazing with a strong maul as they were awarded a penalty try 10 minutes into the second stanza. It was the battle of forwards with Madibaz coming out top to regain their leads five minutes later. Leon van der Merwe powered over in between the sticks. With relegation looming and no time left on the clock UJ had to fight back from behind and capitalized on Madbiaz’ unforced errors. Just five minutes remaining UJ pulled a well-executed maul Josh Du Toit dotted it down the seal the victory.   Scorers: FNB UJ – 24 (12) Tries: Damian Baker, Kamo Molefe, Josh du Toit. Conversions: Lyron Milborrow (2) FNB Madibaz – 21 (14) Tries: Jaden Witbooi, Lwando Davane, Leon van der Merwe. Conversions: Alzeadon Felix. TEAMS FNB UJ : Damian Baker, Ryan Marimo, Ali Gqaza, Jaden Baillie, Josh Du Toit, Siyemukela Ndlovu (captain), Kamo Molefe, Dylan Viljoen, Liam Rowan, Alzeadon Felix, Ughan Africa, Reuven Ferreira, Adriano Jackson, Sifiso Dlamini, Oela Blaauw. FNB Madibaz : Imibongo Mvuleni, Kyle Erasmus, AJ Flemming, Calvin Bosch, Martinus Strydom, Sean Van Zijl, Dewald Gerber, Leon van der Merwe (captain), Cameron Doyle, Layron Milborrow, Bukho Pantsi, Lwando Davane, Edward Kruger, Jaden Witbooi, Raashied Conrad. By Lehlonolo Ditshego

What a season. What a finale. What a phenomenal celebration of South African rugby at its finest. The 2025 FNB Varsity Cup final was nothing short of iconic. A clash rich in history and filled with anticipation, as FNB UCT Ikeys and FNB Maties met once again, 15 years after their last final encounter. This time, it was in front of a sold-out Danie Craven Stadium, with 16,000 plus passionate fans creating an atmosphere worthy of the occasion. The Ikey Tigers, appearing in their third consecutive final, brought not only experience but relentless intensity. With two decisive tries in the final 15 minutes, they pulled away from the home team and claimed a well-earned victory. Third time really was the charm. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS HERE. It may have ended with a Cape derby, but let’s not forget where it all began. This year’s tournament kicked off with Mascot Madness, our national launch that introduced South Africa to Enzo, the newest addition to the FNB Varsity Cup family. From the first match, Enzo became a fan favourite, energising stadiums and screens across the country. One of the most memorable moments of the season came when Enzo ‘lost’ his tail, sparking a community-wide search that captured the hearts of fans young and old. Throughout the tournament, the #FansThatROCK showed up in full force. From the unwavering supporters in the stands to the cheerleaders, mascots, and events teams, the energy in every stadium played a key role in making this one of the most memorable FNB Varsity Cup seasons to date.  FNB Varsity Cup 2025 was also a year of significant milestones. It recorded one of the highest stadium attendance numbers in the history of the tournament and achieved our most engaging digital season to date. For the first time, featured matches in the women's tournament were televised as part of the FNB Varsity Cup broadcast lineup. WATCH THE FINAL HERE . One of the standout players of the tournament was Ntokozo Makhaza. The top points scorer this season and the highest point scorer in FNB Varsity Cup history. And for the second year running he was voted as the FNB Overall Player That Rocks collecting a cheque for R10 000 from FNB. In recognition of his outstanding efforts, Hertz awarded him one of three Suzuki cars for a year. The other two going to the Varsity Shield Overall Player that Rocks and the Varsity Cup Women Player that Rocks in the final. We can’t wait to see what lies ahead for this rising star, and hopefully, that includes a place in the Green and Gold. FNB Varsity Cup 2025 has truly been a landmark season, not only for the thrilling rugby on the field but also for the growth, innovation, and fan engagement around it. To every player, coach, university, sponsor, partner, and supporter — thank you. Your passion and dedication have made this tournament what it is today and have laid a powerful foundation for what comes next. As Dr Rassie Erasmus said, “This is a sport that has brought us all together, and seeing the next generation of players coming through the FNB Varsity Cup gives me great hope for the future of South African rugby.” Here’s to an unforgettable season and to the future of FNB Varsity Cup.

The FNB UCT Ikey Tigers spoiled the FNB Maties 150th anniversary party at Danie Craven Stadium on Monday as the two old foes battled it out for the silverware in the FNB Varsity Cup 2025 final. The Cape side ended their 11-year drought after defeating Maties 44-21 in front of a packed Danie Craven stadium in Stellenbosch.   FNB Maties 21-44 FNB UCT Ikey   The FNB UCT Ikey Tigers ended their 11-year title drought with a commanding 44-21 victory over rivals FNB Maties in an enthralling FNB Varsity Cup 2025 Final at a packed Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. Having lost the last two finals, it was third time lucky for the Cape side, who delivered a clinical performance to deny Maties a fairytale win in their 150th anniversary year. Despite their pedigree and home advantage, the Maroon Machine were undone by costly errors and a relentless Ikeys attack. The opening half was all about Ikeys winger Ntokozo Makhaza, who scored two tries - including a point-of-origin stunner - and added two conversions and a penalty to give UCT a 19-11 lead at the break. Maties responded through a Ryan Manuel try and two penalties from Christiaan Van Heerden Smith. After the break, Maties edged closer with a penalty, but Makhaza’s deadly boot kept Ikeys in control. At 22-14 with 20 minutes to go, the game was still in the balance - until Ikeys fullback Duran Koevort pounced on a Maties mistake to stretch the lead. Although Maties’ Joel Leotlela offered a glimmer of hope with a try, Ikeys scrumhalf Monray Daars sealed the deal with a late five-pointer. Makhaza capped a sensational performance, scoring 32 points and tormenting the Maties at every turn with his deadly boot. Coach Robbie Fleck’s charges lifted their first FNB Varsity Cup trophy since 2014, while Kabamba Floors’ side were left to rue missed chances in a match, they never quite controlled.   SCORERS FNB Maties : 21 (11) Tries: Ryan Manuel, Joel Leotlela.   FNB Ikeys : 44 (19) Tries:  Ntokozo Makhaza (2), Duran Koevort, Monray Daars.   FNB Player that Rocks:  Keagan Blanckenberg (FNB UCT Ikey)   TEAMS FNB Maties : Prince Mulea, Armand Combrink, Herman Lubbe, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Fortune Mpofu, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Ezekiel Ngobeni (c), Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Grant De Jager, CJ Marx, Ryan Manuel, Joel Leotlela, Elridge Jack. FNB UCT Ikeys : Matthew Beckett, Keagan Blanckenberg, Zachary Porthen, Enos Ndiao, Danio Botha, Siphomezo Dyonase (C), Connor Jack Gordon, Xola Nyali, Monray Daars, Alex Vermeulen, Ntokozo Makhaza, Luke Burger, Thomas Nel, Rethabile Louw, Duran Rayn Koevort.

Maties have defended their title and once again claimed top honours in the FNB Varsity Cup Cheerleaders That Rock  competition. The 2025 edition of the competition brought together high-energy performances, fierce university pride, and passionate fan engagement – with Maties coming out on top for the second year in a row.  Judged officially by SAMCA  (South African Majorette and Cheerleading Association), this year’s competition assessed each cheer squad on a detailed set of criteria including visual appeal, crowd effectiveness, skill execution, crowd-leading tools, and overall impression. Public voting also played a role, contributing 5% to the total score.  Maties dazzled the judges with a powerful combination of technical skill and dynamic crowd interaction, setting themselves apart once again with an outstanding performance both at campus launch and matchday events.  CUT took a strong second place for the second year running, showcasing impressive consistency in visuals and crowd energy, while UCT rounded out the top three with another solid performance, maintaining their status as one of the most spirited squads in the competition.  Despite SPU topping the public voting leaderboard at one stage, their score contribution remained at 5%, aligning with the official judging process.  Congratulations to Maties, CUT, and UCT for finishing in the top three – and well done to all participating squads for elevating the energy, entertainment, and excellence of this year’s Varsity Cup season.

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED AND THE RESULTS OF THE POLL WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE JUDGES. The entries are in, the pom-poms have been fluffed, and now it’s your  turn to shine — because voting is officially OPEN for the 2025 Cheerleaders That Rock  competition! The top 3 teams will win cash prizes: 1st Place: R10 000 2nd Place: R5 000 3rd place is R2 000 This nationwide competition celebrates the incredible energy, talent, and spirit of cheerleading squads from the universities competing in the FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield—and now, the spotlight is on you  to help decide who takes the crown. While public voting is a key part of the excitement, it’s important to note that it makes up only a percentage of the overall score. The final decision is a mix of public support and professional judging, done in partnership with the South African Majorettes and Cheerleading Association (SAMCA) to ensure fairness and credibility. Below are the university cheerleading teams who submitted an official entry. Watch their entries and then vote in the poll for the squad you think should be the winner! Make sure to click 'See All Options' to view the full list. UPDATE: VOTING HAS ENDED AND SCREENSHOTS OF THE RESULTS TAKEN AT 12PM ON 14 APRIL WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE JUDGES TO DECLARE A WINNER. NO VOTES TAKEN AFTER THE DEADLINE WILL BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION. Since Varsity Cup and Shield games are hosted across 16 universities around the country, the competition remains entirely virtual for now. This format allows us to include all participating teams regardless of their location, and ensures a consistent judging process while the competition grows. How It Works: Each team submitted their fiercest cheer video, and now those are being reviewed by a SAMCA judge. Your vote + their score = the team that takes the crown. 👑 UPDATE: VOTING HAS ENDED AND SCREENSHOTS OF THE RESULTS TAKEN AT 12PM ON 14 APRIL WILL BE SUBMITTED TO THE JUDGES TO DECLARE A WINNER. 🗓️ Winners announced: 14 April 2025 — during the FNB Varsity Cup Final! So go on, rep your uni and support the squad that really rocks the sidelines. 🎉Let’s hear it in the comments as well... Who’s got the most spirit?

The FNB Varsity Cup 2025 Final will see old foes squaring off in Stellenbosch as FNB Maties host FNB UCT Ikeys. Stellies were victorious by 31-24 when they locked horns in a close encounter in round five. UCT will be appearing in their third straight final, hoping it’ll be ‘third time lucky’ after coming up short in the past. Coach Robbie Fleck admitted his team are relishing the prospect of a Western Cape derby showdown. “There’s no bigger game for our guys if they can’t host a final – is to play a final against Maties at the Danie Craven. That in itself, is obviously a huge excitement for the group.” Fleck will be relying on his team’s past experiences to help get them over the line in 2025, “This is our third final in a row now and there’s been a number of players who’ve been part of those finals and I guess we’ve got to treat it like another game and go through our processes and focus on us and enjoy the week”. The Ikey Tigers coach believes that the hard work his team produces on the training ground will lead them to their desired destination at the Danie Craven Stadium. “We know that all finals are played at another intensity altogether, but you know, we going to get it right at training and we mainly focus on our style. That’s the key thing for us is that we play a certain brand and that’s part of the Ikey way and it’s part of any Ikey Tigers’ DNA,” said Fleck. The UCT coach expects a memorable finale to unfold and admitted that his team will look to be on the front foot against their old foe. Fleck explained, “It was an excellent game of rugby last time out. We played really well, and it was a close game in the end. We were able to put them under pressure, probably for the first time this year and we would like to think that we’ll do the same”. Starting XV : Matthew Beckett, Keagan Blanckenberg, Zachary Porthen, Enos Ndiao, Danio Botha, Siphomezo Dyonase (captain), Connor Jack Gordon, Xola Nyali, Monray Daars, Alex Vermeulen, Ntokozo Makhaza, Luke Burger, Thomas Nel, Rethabile Louw, Duran Rayn Koevort. Replacements : Johan Lombard, Mhleli Khuzwayo, J.K Okonkwo, Keenan Mills, Aden Da Costa, Josh Miller, Kian Davis, Aidan Norris. Tickets and where to watch HERE . By: Kieryn Thompson.

The stage is set for an epic showdown as arch-rivals FNB Maties and FNB Ikeys collide in the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup final at a sold-out Danie Craven Stadium on Monday, 14 April. With pride, history, and silverware on the line, the Maroon Machine will look to crown their 150th anniversary in style, while the Ikey Tigers aim to spoil the party with an upset for the ages. Maties, the tournament frontrunners with 30 points from six wins in seven games, come in as favourites—not only for their consistency but also their psychological edge after edging UCT 31-24 in a thrilling fifth-round clash. Yet head coach Kabamba Floors is under no illusions. “History means nothing on finals night. Yes, we’re at home, yes, we’ve beaten them before—but this is a final, and finals demand something deeper. Ikeys are a side full of fight, and we’ll need to be at our very best,” said Floors. “Being in the final is a privilege because we worked hard to get there, but at the end of the day it means nothing if you don’t lift the trophy. “We placed a lot of emphasis on the match on Monday. It’s a Cape derby and a massive year for us – the Maties men and Maties women both qualified for the final for the first time in Varsity Sports. The 150th year’s slogan is a legacy that inspires. “The history set the platform for the legacy that inspires to build a new generation and a new future. Inclusivity is a big part of what we are doing to uphold the performance of Maties Rugby with the 150th year anniversary. “Congratulations to the ladies for winning the title, so Monday is a big occasion for us to follow through. We are not underestimating Ikeys. We know they are a good outfit, and we are aware that it’s going to be a tough encounter and as Maties we are looking forward to the challenge on Monday,” adds Floors. UCT, who finished third with 26 points, have grown stronger with each outing. Captain Keagan Blanckenberg has led from the front, his fiery leadership sparking belief across the park. Maties skipper Carel van der Merwe, stepping up admirably in injured Ezekiel Ngobeni’s absence, will be key in anchoring the home side’s hopes. Expect bone-crunching tackles, tactical chess, and unrelenting passion as two of South Africa’s greatest rugby institutions vie for FNB Varsity Cup glory in what promises to be a final for the ages. Starting XV : Prince Mulea, CJ Erasmus, Ammaar Burton, Zuko Poswa, Carel Van Der Merwe, Gcina Puzi, Luan Botha, Ethan Snyman, Mckyle Volmoer, Christiaan van Heerden Smith, Dylan Miller, CJ Marx, Grant De Jager, Ryan Manuel, Elridge Jack. Replacements : Luthando Makula, Janlu Basson, Jason Johnson, Michael Chettoa, Dante Burger, Warrick Jones, Samuel Badenhorst, Jean-Marc Trichard. Tickets and where to watch HERE .

FNB Varsity College sealed their perfect FNB Varsity Cup promotion season as they became champions of the FNB Varsity Shield 2025 competition, beating FNB Madibaz 22-7 in Durban. The game started off intensely with neither side able to cross the whitewash for the majority of the first half, but 5 min from the hooter it was the home team that broke the deadlock through Mambo Mkhize who pushed his way over to dot down for the Comets first try which was successfully converted by Frederick Marx. The Comets lead 7-0 going into the break and the second half began a little stronger than the first when in the 50th min the stadium erupted as speedy hot-stepper Edward Sigauke received the ball out wide from Juan Steyl to score in the corner and take the score line to 12-0. Coming back from the second strategy break, the game was not over to the FNB Madibaz as the men from Gqeberha began the final quarter strongly. The visitor’s effort was rewarded when FNB Varsity Shield Rookie of the year nominee, Raashied Conrad slipped his way through to the try line with some explosive speed. Layron Milborrow added the conversion. Just when all thought it was to be a tight ending to the match, the FNB Varsity Cup bound Comets showed why they were promoted as they sealed the deal with two late tries from MJ Schoeman and Cade Laytham, respectively, through some routine tries they had been doing all season long. The final horn of the campaign sounded to the jubilation of the home fans as FNB Varsity College claimed the 2025 FNB Varsity Shield championship. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS HERE.    SCORERS:   FNB Varsity College:  22 (7)  Tries: Mambo Mkhize, Edward Sigauke, MJ Schoeman, Cade Laytham.   FNB Madibaz : 7 (0) Tries: Raashied Conrad   FNB Player that Rocks:  Mambo Mkhize (FNB Varsity College)   TEAMS: FNB Varsity College:  Okuhlekodwa Meyiwa, Jaques Marais, Mbuso Kweyama, Robert Everson, Garren Muller, Sinelifa Ncwana, Enzo Van Niekerk, Juan Steyl, Abande Mthembu (c), Frederick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, MJ Schoeman, Sivu Mpendu, Chandler Green. FNB Madibaz:  Chulumanco Limana, Kyle Erasmus, Lihlumelo Mantewu, Calvin Bosch, Martinus Strydpm, Sean Van Zijl, Dewald Gerber, Leon Van De Merwe, Curwin Casper, Raashied Conrad, Bukho Pantsi, Lwando Davane, Edward Kruger, Emihle Zama, Layron Millborow.

FNB Maties came out victorious in the FNB Varsity Cup Women 2025 final, reclaiming the title they won in 2023 as they defeated FNB Tuks Women by 21-10 in Durban on Friday. The game began cautiously on both sides, with FNB Maties slowly building momentum towards UP-Tuks try-line. The 2023 champions were finally rewarded for their efforts when an amazing break from Shanidine Bezuidenhout absolutely cut through the Pretoria ladies’ defence scoring a POR try which was beautifully converted by Maties fly-half Number 10, Elme Kruger. FNB Tuks were slowly building as well and eventually earned themselves a run over the try line, a beautiful driving maul from which was too strong for the Maties defense, Gina Moya the one to dot down at the end, 9-5 to Maties. It was a back-and-forth for the rest of the half, until Kruger dotted down a beautiful team try which sees on the far corner which she failed to convert, taking the halftime score to 14-5 to FNB Maties. Ten minutes into the second half Tuks tried to claw their way back into contention when, Lerato Tshabalala beautifully laid it off for Kwanga Majebe for a beautiful finish, 14-10 to Maties. The match was sealed off for a Maties win when Captain Elizabeth Slabbert beautifully found her way through that FNB Tuks Women back block to dot down the final try of the match under the poles with a good Kruger conversion sealing the deal 21-10. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS HERE.   SCORERS   FNB Maties Women:  21 (14) Tries: Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Elme Kruger, Elizabeth Slabbert   FNB Tuks Women: 10 (5) Tries: Kwanga Majebe, Gina Moya   FNB Player that Rocks:  Ankia Viljoen (FNB Maties Women)   TEAMS: FNB Maties Women:  Erin Bond, Juan-Mari Du Plessis, Sesethu Ntamnani, Sarah Krone, Lekobane Masebe, Stefney-Rose De Vries, Ankia Viljoen, Ziane Muller, Taliyah Bussak, Elme Kruger, Shanidine Bezuidenhout, Zelmari Pretorius, Elizabeth Slabbert (c), Jade Nicole Daniels, Kayleen Muggles. FNB Tuks Women:   Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Aphiwe Masuku, Naki Thukutha, Mbali Ndlovu, Rethabile Kgatle, Thandi Mokatse, Gina Moyà, Ox Xholi, Erin Prins, Precious Tlaka (c), Innocentia Kgosana, Gugu Mncwabe, Lerato Tshabalala, Amukelani Lisenga, Kwanga MaJebe.   Replacements: LeOne De Bruyn, Arnell Primo, Sharon Stoaba, Zinzi Shabangu, Marisna Godsil, Kgotso Letsoalo, Raylene Muller, Thato Nkadimeng.

The FNB Varsity College have already ticked their most important objective, which was to qualify for the FNB Varsity Cup 2026. The men from Durban North have just one more match to play to determine if their ending is perfect and if they will lift the FNB Varsity Shield in the final.   Comets captain Abande AB Mthembu says his team is more than ready for their face off with FNB Madibaz for this season’s final.   “It’s game nine out of nine for us, and the way we have prepared in the last 8 games has been successful, so we won’t be changing too much in terms of our approach,” said Mthembu.   “It’s not easy to make it to a final so I commend FNB Madibaz for their hard work and the way they’ve played in this campaign.”   The Comets skipper further added that despite the goal of Cup qualification being attained, they are desire and focus are not deterred as they will still fully prepare for the first ever FNB Varsity Sheild final to be played in KwaZulu-Natal.   “The desire to win has definitely increased, there’s a standard that comes with doing better every week and that’s something we are not willing to compromise on,” he said.   “To be honest we aren’t really too focused on Varsity Cup preparations just yet. For us it’s crucial that we keep our focus on Friday’s game and prepare to the best of our ability.” Starting XV : Okuhlekodwa Meyiwa, Jacques Marais, Mbuso Kweyama, Robert Everson, Garren Muller, Sinelifa Ncwana, Enzo Van Niekerk, Juan Orde Steyl, Abande Mthembu (captain), Frederick Marx, Edward Sigauke, Mambo Mkhize, MJ Schoeman, Sivuyiswe Mpendu, and Chandler Green. Replacements : Thabo Njapha, Daniel Van Huizen, Donell Francis, Reece Curtin, Khumo-etsile Nkutha, Christian Els, Benjamin Brett Field, and Cade Latham.   By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

This stage is set for the third edition of the FNB Women’s Varsity Cup final showdown. Ambitious FNB Tuks Women will lock horns with FNB Maties Women in a David vs Goliath battle. Lizanne Jacobs’ side toppled defending champions FNB UFH Women to book their spot in the final. “There is a good vibe in the squad, exciting week ahead for preparations towards the final. It will come down to who wants it more in the final, we know Maties will come for us as they want to claim the title like they did in 2023,” Jacobs speaking of their preparations ahead of their biggest clash. Tuks had to go back to the drawing board against UFH after going down to UJ in the round robin stages that nearly cost them the title contention. On the other hand, their counterparts Maties are on a five-match winning streak. Jacobs believe that her side needs to show up for the bigger occasion. “We need to improve definitely our game management. Our defence systems, it will take a lot of effort and character for the girls as we had a tough game against UFH,” she said. The Stripe Generation ladies head into this encounter highly motivated after their hard-fought 8-5 victory over UFH, now they have to do it again, but this time around the stakes is higher. The two sides will be meeting for the second time this season with Maties being the favourites as they beat Tuks by a score-line of 23-17. Starting XV :Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Aphiwe Masuku (vice-captain), Naki Thukutha, Mbali Ndlovu, Rethabile Kgatle, Thandi Mokatse, Gina Moya, Ox Xholi, Erin Prins, Precious Tlaka (captain), Innocentia Kgosana, Gugu Mncwabe, Lerato Tshabalala, Amukelani Lisenga, Kwanga Majebe. Replacements :Leone de Bruyn, Arnell Primo, Sharon Stoaba, Zinzi Shabangu, Marisna Godsil, Kgotso Letsoalo, Raylene Muller, Thato Nkadimeng.   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego