With the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup and FNB Varsity Shield campaigns already in full swing, the spotlight is once again set to shine on the women’s game with the fourth edition of the FNB Varsity Cup Women’s tournament kicking off on Friday, 6 March. What began as a bold step forward for women’s university rugby in South Africa has rapidly grown into a flagship competition on the calendar, elevating the standard and competitiveness of the women’s game across the country. The 2026 tournament marks an important evolution in structure as it moves away from the previous cross-pool format to a full round-robin competition for the first time. The six participating teams are FNB Maties, FNB Tuks, FNB UFH, FNB UJ, FNB UWC and FNB UKZN who will face one another across five weeks of group-stage action, ensuring every side is tested against the full field before the semi-finals and final determine the champion. The top teams will then advance to the semi-finals, culminating in a final on 17 April that promises to once again showcase the very best of women’s university rugby. Defending champions FNB Maties return after reclaiming the title last season. Having originally lifted the trophy in 2023, Maties secured their second crown with a composed 21–10 victory over FNB Tuks Women in the 2025 final. The triumph marked a significant milestone for head coach Aneesah Adams in her debut season at the helm. “Reaching the finals as a coach in my first year at Maties Rugby was an incredible feeling, a mix of pride, excitement and validation of all the hard work put in by the team over the preseason,” said Adams. “It showed that the preparation, strategy and commitment pays off.” With increased visibility, growing support and a refined competition format, the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Women’s tournament continues to push boundaries and set new benchmarks. The stage is set for another season of high-intensity clashes, emerging stars and the rugby that rocks and you see all the fixtures HERE .

The FNB UFS Shimlas are fired up ahead of their FNB Varsity Cup round-three clash on Monday - a highly anticipated Bloemfontein derby against city rivals, the FNB CUT Ixias. The FNB UFS Shimlas view the match against their neighbours as the ideal opportunity to bounce back from their disappointing 38-22 defeat to FNB UP-Tuks in round two. Despite a few injury concerns in camp, the team is fully backing its depth and “next man up” philosophy. Exciting loose forward Henri van Heerden, one of the team’s senior players and a member of the leadership group, said clashes against CUT always bring extra intensity for both sides. “CUT is always a great game to play. It’s a Bloem derby, so it’s always exciting rugby to watch and very competitive between the rivals,” said Van Heerden. “Every player looks forward to it, and the whole squad is really excited for what should be a great week and a big match. “Winning is important - everyone wants the five points every week - but we are very process-driven as a team. Our focus is on following the right processes, because we know that if we get those right, the results will take care of themselves.” While there is still uncertainty over the availability of captain Bradley Giddy following the heavy knock he took against the Striped Generation, Van Heerden added that the team’s strength lies in its squad depth and belief in the next man up. “Injuries are unfortunately part of the game. We do have a few, but here at Shimlas we believe strongly in a ‘next man up’ philosophy. “We back the players who come in, we believe in our squad depth, and the guys stepping up are eager and ready to do the job.” Monday night’s round-three derby between the Ixias and Shimlas at the CUT Stadium kicks off at 19:00. Tickets and log HERE .

Newcomers FNB Emeris have not had a friendly welcome in their FNB Varsity Cup debut campaign. This follows back-to-back defeats in their opening two matches of the season. Amongst some of the many tasks that the Comets men have had to overcome is that they have had to travel in both matches as they have played their first two matches of the tournament away from home. FNB Comets captain, Jacques Marais has testified that this has not been an easy situation but pointed out that it has been a time of growth and developing of resilience for his men. “It’s been a tough few weeks for us as a squad regarding to fix our mistakes as a team and to get better week after week” “I think it is always a challenge playing away from home, but it is in the tough situations where we are growing as a team to fight for each other and not to back down” said the Comets captain. For the upcoming match of round 3, Jeremy McLaren’s men are back home in Durban for their very first FNB Varsity Cup match on home soil. The debutant’s captain, Marais, has called on his men to take ownership and fix mistakes. “The team is growing and accountability is massive for us to fix our mistakes. We celebrate the small victories and take ownership for the losses.” “The preparation has been going well. As I say, it is important for us to take accountability and fix our mistakes we made the previous game,” said the hooker. Revealing if there is any panic in the FNB Emeris camp on their shows so far in the competition, skipper Marais remained levelheaded, explaining that his team will be sticking to their plan and system for the remainder of the season. “The plan is to stick to our system and play our brand of rugby” concluded the Comets captain Jacques Marais. Tickets and log HERE .   By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

The FNB CUT Ixias are determined to claim their first win of the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup on Monday night and in doing so, cause an upset against their bitter city rivals, the FNB UFS Shimlas. The Ixias have endured a tough start to their campaign, suffering a home defeat to the NWU Eagles before being heavily beaten by defedning champs the Ikey Tigers in round 2. That said, when it comes to facing the FNB UFS Shimlas, no extra motivation is required. The Ixias always back themselves against their “big brothers” - a team they have beaten before as the underdogs. Captain and hooker Tokelo Ntaopane said one thing his side certainly possesses is character, and he believes that will come to the fore. “It was definitely a tough start for us as a group, especially in those two games against the Eagles and UCT. But the team has a lot of character,” said Ntaopane. “What excites me most about this team is the fight. We’ve got a young squad with a real hunger to learn and plenty of room for improvement. The character each player shows and the willingness to keep coming back for more is special.” “We fight for one another, for the team, and especially for the CUT community. No matter what has happened in previous seasons, the supporters keep showing up in numbers - that’s no lie.” Looking ahead to Monday’s clash, Ntaopane added that the Ixias are eager to rock the boat and create their own legacy in front of their passionate home crowd. “The gents are excited for the Bloem derby. It’s a big one. From the start of the year, we’ve spoken about making history, and with what we’ve learned and been through, the boys are ready. “Playing at home with our crowd and the support from management and the CUT community makes it even more exciting. It’s going to be a great game.” Monday night’s derby between the FNB CUT Ixias and FNB UFS Shimlas - which promises to be a humdinger at the CUT Stadium - kicks off at 19:00. Tickets and log HERE .

FNB UP-Tuks recorded back-to-back victories in their opening two rounds against and defending champions FNB UCT Ikeys and FNB UFS Shimlas respectively. The new look Stripe Generation played like an oiled machine thanks to newly roped in flyhalf Divan du Toit. The experienced orchestrator was at the helm of Tuks attack and defence in the opening rounds. The Vanderbijlpark born flyhalf has taken Pretoria by storm. Du Toit was previously with FNB NWU Eagles and described moving to Tuks a better step in elevating his career. “NWU played a huge role in my development both as a player and person, the move was more about stepping in a new challenge and growth opportunity. Tuks presented a platform that aligned with my long-term goals, after a long thought it felt right to move this side,” said du Toit. “Getting player of the match award on my Tuks debut was a blessing indeed but individual accolades do not come second, the success of the team comes first. My debut was special.” The Hoërskool Transvalia graduate is settling in well in the Highveld, as he praised the welcome he received from the teammates and coaches. “Every team have its own identity and as a player adapting is part of growth and I am learning to combine those elements and that helps me develop as a complete player." “Tuks is a proud institution and there is always going to be expectations, but I see it as privilege, when you represent a university with such history, you understand the responsibility and motivates you to uphold certain standards that have been put before you,” he said. “I am settling in well and it is competitive here. Everyone has made the transition smooth for me from the coaches and players. It is a high-performance institution, so the competition is very high.” The Pretoria outfit will host arch-rivals FNB Maties in round three, du Toit alludes good planning and sticking to their game plan will help the team overcome the hurdle comes with the Stellenbosch side. “Maties is a massive fixture. They are a quality side with a lot of history, and you cannot afford to be off mentally or physically against them. For us it is about staying grounded, reviewing honestly, and improving the small details. We will respect them, but we will focus on our system and our standards. If we execute our plan and match their intensity, we’ll give ourselves a good chance.”   By: Lehlogonolo Ditshego

Round 3 of the FNB Varsity Shield saw FNB WSU stun the UWC Caracals to remain unbeaten while the University of the Witwatersrand delivered a ruthless attacking performance to thrash FNB UKZN at Howard College Stadium. FNB CPUT were equally impressive at home to claiming an emphatic triumph over FNB SPU while FNB Madibaz made it back-to-back wins after defeating their Eastern Cape neighbours FNB UFH at Davidson Stadium.   FNB UFH 11-49 FNB Madibaz FNB Madibaz produced a commanding display at Davidson Stadium, crossing the whitewash eight times to seal a comprehensive 49-11 victory over FNB UFH. The visitors wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Luan Verster finishing off a slick lineout move in the 4th minute to open the scoring. FNB Madibaz immediately capitalised on their momentum during a power play period, putting FNB UFH under sustained pressure early on. The hosts responded in the 8th minute after a period of patient build-up play created space out wide for Liyema Ngoyi to dive over in the corner. However, Ukho Nomsatha was unable to add the extras, leaving FNB UFH trailing as FNB Madibaz continued to control proceedings. FNB Madibaz quickly regained control. Cupido powered over under the posts in the 12th minute, with Layron Milborrow converting. Nomsatha added a penalty for UFH two minutes later, but Madibaz attacking dominance continued. Dewald Gerber scored their third in the 17th minute, converted by Milborrow. Despite Verster receiving a yellow card before the strategy break, FNB Madibaz remained in control. Kyle Erasmus added the fourth try in the 22nd minute, and during their power play Caleb Frikins crossed for the fifth. A penalty try in the 28th minute further extended the lead, with Mikel Mangava yellow-carded. Milborrow’s penalty on the stroke of halftime made it 39-11. The second half was more tactical, with both teams making substitutions. FNB UFH’s Mihle Mandela was yellow carded in the 67th minute. FNB Madibaz added further tries through Mtika Oliphant and Milborrow, while Chad Weimann also saw yellow. Madibaz clinical execution and first-half dominance proved decisive as they comfortably outplayed FNB UFH in Alice.   SCORERS   FNB UFH: (11) 11 Tries: Ngoyi Liyema   FNB Madibaz: (39) 49 Tries: Erasmus Kyle, Verster Luan, Gerber Dewald, Milborrow Layron, Cupido Qurin, Oliphant Mtika, Friskin Caleb (T-PP), Penalty try.   FNB Player of the Match: Dewald Gerber (FNB Madibaz)   TEAMS FNB UFH: Mtshemla Elihle, Oyisa Dayimani, Liyabona Matyana, Iviwe Kahla, Mpho Ramahala, Alizwa Majila, Michael Mangava, Iminathi Macoli, Kamva Jenqa, Salusiwe Gxekwa, Liyema Ngoyi, Siyamthanda Sakhela, Lakheni Majeli, Mihle Mandela, Nomsatha Ukho. FNB Madibaz: Imibongo Mvuleni, Kyle Erasmus, AJ Flemming, Luan Verster, Dewald Gerber, Come Cloete, Johan Van Zyl, Sean Van Zijl, Onelisiwe Fani, Layron Milborrow, Jaden Witbooi, Qurin Cupido, Edward Kruger, Mtika Oliphant, Caleb Friskin.   FNB WSU 29-10 FNB UWC FNB WSU produced a commanding second-half performance to defeat FNB UWC 29-10 in their 2026 FNB Varsity Shield Round 3 clash at Sisa Dukashe Stadium. The opening exchanges were tightly contested, with both sides testing each other at scrum time and battling for territorial control. FNB WSU’s forwards laid an early marker earning penalties through a solid set-piece foundation. The breakthrough came in the 20th minute when scrumhalf Thembela Folo sniped from close range to score the opening try after quick ball at the base. The hosts carried a narrow 5-0 lead into halftime following disciplined defensive work that kept UWC scoreless despite sustained pressure. The second half saw momentum shift decisively in FNB WSU’s favour. After returning to a full complement of players, FNB WSU struck early before FNB UWC responded with a Power Play try that briefly swung momentum. However, a crucial penalty try awarded to FNB WSU restored control, and the introduction of the host's “Bomb Squad” proved decisive as the pack dominated scrum time inside their own half. With 10 minutes remaining, FNB WSU maintained territorial discipline before sealing the result with a late try in the 78th minute. Their structured attack and forward dominance ensured a deserved 29-10 victory.   SCORERS   FNB WSU: (5) 29 Tries: Hobosch Sipho X2, Folo Thembela, Zixesha Mangaliso , Penalty Try.   FNB UWC: (0) 10   Tries: Adams Leachim (T-PP)   FNB Player of the Match: Yoyisa Mahobe (FNB WSU)   TEAMS FNB WSU: Inathinkosi Mhlakaza, Sokhana Pampila, Buhlebenkosi Kedama, Azasakhe Phuwani, Sinentlahla Kesa, Siya Ncapayi, Khanaye Mbakaza, Sipho Hobosch, Thembela Folo, Lukhangele Tshayi, Asisipho Jim, Axola Mtalana, Bulelani Nondlwana, Ahlule Zokoza, Isiphe Mbini. FNB UWC: Hlonela Qelile, Marciano Forbes, Graigan Matroos, Alexander-Jaco Van Der Merwe, Melumzi Mandongana, Melvin Diedericks, Danston Cloete (C), Leighton Damon, Dwayne Badenhorst, Aaron Swartz, Leachim Adams, Kerwin Davids, Hlomla Ncana, Juma Amisi, Nhlamulo Shilubane.   FNB UKZN 3-55 FNB WITS There was unfinished business when FNB UKZN faced FNB Wits in a clash reminiscent of the 2015 FNB Varsity Shield final. Impi drew first blood after an early infringement handed vice-captain Siso France a straightforward penalty opportunity, which he calmly slotted from 20 metres out in front of the uprights. FNB Wits didn’t take that very friendly as they pounded the home side with speed and aggression scoring two tries back-to-back, one from Liam Santos and the other from Meyer Opperman. Rekkie Gerber successfully scoring both tries. The Impi back line began making mistakes as they conceded two yellow cards in between those plays, making things even difficult for themselves. Just after the first Suzuki Strat-Break, the visitors capitalized on the momentum and added two more tries through Ronan Dutton and Jamaal Feldman. The latter try was converted by the FNB Wits flyhalf Gerber while the former ended in an unsuccessful tap power play, 3-26 to FNB Wits. Christopher Kachungunu and MacMillen Mongwana both showcased their speed and fighting spirit as they ripped the Impi defense into between, adding two more tries for FNB Wits as Gerber converted one more try taking the halftime score to 3–38. The second half started on a much slower pace as the visitors looked the better side to do more damage. FNB Wits finally broke free, as Liam Terblanche came off the bench to add his name to the scoresheet. The men from Joburg completed their festival in KZN as they added two more tries to the score line courtesy of a successful power play double try from Latica Nela and Lindani Dweba to take the score to 3-55.     SCORERS   FNB UKZN: (3) 3   FNB WITS: (38) 55 Tries: Liam Santos, Meyer Opperman, Ronan Dutton, Jamaal Feldmen, Christopher Kachungunu, MacMillen Mongwana, Liam Terblanche, Latica Nela, Lindani Dweba.   FNB Player of the Match:  Rekkie Gerber   (FNB WITS)   TEAMS FNB UKZN: Prince Nyathi, Lonwabo Nkalitshana, Ulrich Walker, Asanda Zama, Tylo Madaat, Nhlakanipho Buthelezi, Aphelele Dlamini, Mthomboyolo Buzani (c), Rayke Maartens, Minenhle Ngcamu, Somanga Jho, Russel Fick, Lwanele Gaba, Sisco France, Jovawn Visagie. FNB WITS: Ronan Dutton, Bonga Nxumalo, Meyer Opperman, Joshua Ferreira, Hayden Munnery, Liam Santos, Christopher Kachungunu, Jamaal Feldman, Bryce Samuel, Rekkie Gerber, Lindani Dweba, Tirhani Masondo, McMillen Mongwana, Dustyn Holmes, Latica Nela.   FNB CPUT 56-25 FNB SPU On Friday at the Cape University of Technology Stadium in Bellville, FNB CPUT delivered a commanding performance to secure a convincing 56-25 victory over FNB SPU. The visitors struck first in the opening minutes, with flyhalf Chadwin Sellidon slotting a penalty to give FNB SPU an early lead. However, FNB CPUT responded swiftly and with intent. Kieran Naidoo crossed in the corner to level matters, before Samukelisiwe Madonsela powered over for a converted try to shift the momentum firmly in the hosts’ favour. Although FNB SPU managed to narrow the gap through Kabelo Keagile, FNB CPUT regained control through clinical finishing. Jacquin Jacobus and Dwayne Atkins added further tries, allowing the hosts to take a comfortable 27-10 lead into halftime. The second half proved one-sided as FNB CPUT’s attacking dominance continued. Lihle Kula, Madonsela and Atkins all crossed the whitewash, while flyhalf Reuben Noble added crucial conversions to keep the scoreboard ticking. Kula later completed his brace to cap off an impressive individual display. FNB SPU showed late resistance with two tries from Jaiden Faviers, but it was not enough to halt FNB CPUT’s momentum, as the hosts’ clinical execution ensured a comprehensive win on home soil.   SCORERS   FNB CPUT: (27) 56 Tries: Samukelisiwe Madonsela X3 (T-PP), Dwayne Atkins X2, Lindisipho Kula, Keiran Naidoo, Jacquin Jacobus, Noah Pekeur (T-PP).   FNB SPU: (10) 25 Tries: Dwayne Lubbe X2, Kabelo Keagile, Jaiden Faviers (T-PP).   FNB Player of the Match: Denley Adams   (FNB CPUT)   TEAMS FNB CPUT: Emihle Benya, Kyle Ahrendse, Kieran Naidoo, Ntsako Mhlanga, Nqaba Nkonyeni, Preveen Padayachiey, Simphiwe Thabede, Denley Adams, Jason January, Reuben Noble, Samukeliswe Madonsela, Philasande Ngcobo, Jacquin Jacobus, Dwayne Atkins, Noah Pekeur, Lindisipho Kula, Siphesihle Zwane, Ashton Maloy, Abongile Golela, Lazola Makaula, Clyde Frieslaar, Chris Phillips, Yibanathi Phoncana. FNB SPU: Aiden Holtzhausen, Jan Potgieter, Emile Noble, Joshua Vomberg, Kwandokuhle Dlamini, Tyron China, Kabelo Keagile, Devine Ambrose, Raqeeb Kapery, Chadwin Sellidon, Raees Sahabodien, Stephan Du Toit, Jaiden Faviers, Mvelo Ndwalane, Sithabiso Dube, Ntokozo Ndwalane, John Southward, Kwanda Mhlongo, Kamo Leshupi, Tumelo Papane, Dwayne Lubbe, Calvin Paulsen, Michael Prinsloo.

Kaya Malotana’s voice reverberates through households across South Africa on Saturdays when the Springboks play. A few years ago, that same voice was echoing through the fields of TUT Vikings with Malotana leading in the head coach role in two FNB Varsity Shield campaigns.   “Just working with the team and formulating a vision and then selling that vision and allowing the team to expand that vision so they can adopt the vision,” Malotana outlined as what he enjoyed most in his experience at the helm of TUT.   “Just the competition, different coaches, different teams. That is always exciting to see what you’re going to come up against and if in your planning and your practices and your trick plays, you’ve catered for what the other team is going to bring.”   The FNB Varsity Cup and Shield are ever expanding on their on field rules.   “The evolution of Varsity Cup is that it’s managed to be more exciting year on year,” Malotana said.   There was the mark that could be called anywhere on the field, the seven pointer try, this season sides can have a second crack at the cherry after scoring a try by taking a quick tap from the 22m lineup.   “It’s always interesting when the Varsity Cup starts again to see what new innovation, what new exciting thing that is going to be tried out and that’s why we look forward to it,” Malotana explained.   The FNB Varsity Cup is where so many players are able to make their name. 60 Springboks started their professional career there as a stepping stone with 13 going on to be World Cup winners.   FNB TUT boasts hooker Bongi Mbonambi as their most successful alumni.   But what are some of the traits required to make the step up from FNB Varsity Cup level to provincial rugby?   “The big thing is players that are resilient, players that are consistent with what they do off the field, outside of television,” Malotana explained.   “Varsity Cup obviously gives you that platform. You get to get seen and for some, it’s a quick fame but if the character is not right, people fade.   “The guys that have stuck at it and have gone on to be successful have been guys that have had their feet grounded firmly on the floor, guys who wanted to work further than Varsity Cup, who believed in a bigger dream than Varsity Cup.”   Those traits are evident in Mbonambi who also went on to represent FNB UP-Tuks and winning the FNB Varsity Cup with them before carving out a splendid career with the Bulls, Stormers and Sharks at provincial level.   The biggest difference between FNB Varsity Cup and provincial rugby, according to Malotana is that all the coaches in the Varsity rugby ecosystem believe in playing free-flowing rugby.   There are universities whose traditional strengths remain the set-piece but the nature of the innovative rules, the young crowd and daring coaches, the matches are often slightly more helter-skelter, in the best way possible.   “You see a lot of running from deep within team’s half where they obviously try and capitalise on the seven-point try,” Malotana said.   “So there are similarities, but the major difference is that I think at Varsity Cup rugby, you see the effort to play from deep in your own half a lot more than what you see at the level of provincial rugby and of international rugby.”   The Tshwane University of Technology locals have built a familiarity with the side which has seen TUT Stadium in Pretoria packed with red clad shirts in support of their side in the past. They were replaced in the FNB Varsity Shield by FNB SPU last season after losing a promotion/relegation fixture but will be keen to regain entry with a passionate support base keen to cheer for the side again.   “Just the way it’s supported by the students, by the community in South Africa,” Malotana said.   “I mean, it’s become part of the rugby calendar that everybody anticipates in.”

Fresh from a standout performance against their Bellville rivals, FNB UWC fullback Aaron Swartz heads into Friday’s FNB Varsity Shield clash against Walter Sisulu University at Sisa Dukashe Stadium with confidence, but insists the focus remains firmly on the team. “It was a real honour to be named FNB Player of the Match against CPUT and also a confidence boost after that performance,” he said. “But it’s about the team effort. It gives us momentum and belief going into the game against FNB WSU.” The upcoming away fixture presents a stern challenge, with FNB WSU known for their direct and physical approach. The FNB UWC No 15 is clear about the threats they pose. “They’re very physical and also dangerous from broken play. From fullback, my role will be to stay alert, focus on positioning, organise the backfield and be ready to counter their kicking game.” Preparation has matched the magnitude of the occasion. “Training’s been high intensity, with a big focus on defence and decision-making under pressure. We’re mentally ready for the away challenge at Sisa Dukashe Stadium.” For the last line of defence, priorities are simple and non-negotiable. “Defence comes first - cover and clear communication. Once that’s solid, I’ll look to join the line and exploit space when the opportunity is right.” That defensive mindset reflects the broader FNB UWC identity. “At UWC Rugby, it’s about staying organised and connected. Clear communication is key to shutting down space and keeping a clean sheet.” Tickets and log HERE .

If last Friday’s standout performance is anything to go by, FNB Madibaz eighth-man Sean van Zijl is fast becoming a key figure in their 2026 FNB Varsity Shield campaign. The powerful 20-year-old was instrumental in the team’s second-round victory over FNB UKZN at the Madibaz Stadium in Gqeberha.   Apart from his superb ball-carrying endeavours, a brace of tries in the 60-32 affair deservedly earnt him the FNB Player That Rocks award.   It was a special moment that blindsided the loose forward.   “I was completely shocked when they announced it, it’s an amazing feeling walking towards that pink cap in front of the crowd. I’m just so grateful,” admitted the second-year quantity-surveying student.   The accolade marked a personal milestone for van Zijl, who made his debut for FNB Madibaz last season.   It was his first taste of that spotlight, yet he is not driven by individual recognition.   After missing the season-opener against FNB CPUT due to injury, he returned with renewed focus and an unwavering belief in the squad’s direction.   “The message from the coaches was simple - focus on the next priority. It’s still early in the season and a lot can happen,” he said.   “We were in a similar situation last year and bounced back to finish second - who prefers anchoring the back of the scrum but is comfortable shifting positions depending on the opposition. This year our goal is to end top of the log.”   His eye-catching performance is perhaps not as unexpected as it seems at first glance as he has been deliberate in targeting the mental, physical and skills areas of his game for refinement.   Van Zijl believes last week’s emphatic victory was built on trust and execution.   Round 2 HIGHLIGHTS: FNB Madibaz vs FNB UKZN “We played without fear and stuck to our plan and culture. When everyone gives a little bit of themselves every day, we can achieve extraordinary things.”   While acknowledging that victories boost confidence, he is careful not to tie their identity to results alone.   “We’ve matured enough to know you can’t set your self-worth on a win or a loss.”   As the competition gathers momentum, he expects sterner tests, particularly in televised away-fixtures against desperate opponents eager to revive their season.   On Friday they will be up against Eastern Cape rivals FNB UFH, who are hurting after two straight defeats. Van Zijl knows that a wounded opponent is a dangerous one, especially in front of a passionate home crowd.   Tickets and log HERE . By: Jesica Slabbert

Round 2 of the FNB Varsity Cup delivered a night of statement performances as several title contenders stamped their authority. FNB Maties thrilled a packed Danie Craven Stadium crowd, overturning a halftime deficit with a powerful second-half surge to beat FNB UJ 39-19, crossing five times after the break to secure a convincing win in Stellenbosch while the Stripe Generation bagged another big scalp after beating the Shimlas away in Bloem. Here are the players who stood out and put in notable performances. Divan du Toit (FNB UP-Tuks) In testing conditions, a team needs a flyhalf who can control territory and tempo - and Divan du Toit delivered exactly that. His game management was exceptional, while his long-range penalties, some pushing close to 60 metres, were nothing short of outstanding on a treacherous surface. Back-to-Back FNB Player that Rocks awards for his efforts. Jack Benade (FNB UCT Ikeys) The FNB UCT Ikeys winger impressed in his side’s first outing at the Green Mile, getting himself on the scoresheet on two occasions. His attacking threat and defensive work rate were on show from start to finish as the defending champions got their campaign back on track with a huge win on home soil. Fancy footwork, blistering ball carries and devastating defensive hits saw the UCT Ikeys winger rewarded for a superb all-round display. CJ Marx (FNB Maties) CJ Marx was the standout performer in FNB Maties’ 39-19 victory over FNB UJ, producing a decisive display that shifted the momentum of the contest. With Maties trailing at halftime, it was Marx who ignited the second-half resurgence, crossing the whitewash at a crucial stage to spark the comeback. Beyond his try, the dynamic centre was influential on attack and defence, consistently breaching the gain line and providing stability in midfield when it mattered most. His impact turned the tide in Maties’ favour and laid the foundation for their dominant final quarter, making him a deserving FNB Player of the Match.   Therlow Prins (FNB NWU Eagles) FNB NWU Eagles winger Therlow Prins delivered a standout performance, scoring his second hat-trick of the season and producing explosive runs that consistently tore through the opposition’s defence from the first half into the second. 6 tries in two games is enough said.   Fixtures and tickets for round 3 HERE .

FNB UKZN face old foes FNB Wits in the third-round game of the campaign and the Impi will be looking to repeat the results of the 2015 final when they were crowned champions after beating Wits 29-24. With two games done and dusted in the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield campaign, FNB UKZN have had a ‘roller coaster’s season already. This is the sentiment shared by Siso France, vice-captain and fullback of the IMPI, who believes that his team’s highs and lows can be good for his men. “The first two games, roller coaster. Roller coaster, if you’re looking at the score but if you ask from UKZN’s side, it’s been steady,” said France. “The first two games, good tests. In retrospect, you might say that it’s good to get both results quite early, a win and a loss. “Any sportsman will tell you it’s better to get both results quite early and then decide what you feel about that at the end of the game.” The men from KZN have looked sharp this season, boasting of a lot of energy from their young players, with a deep hunger and desire to do well. A clear feat in their gameplay this year. Despite the finesse IMPI have displayed for most parts of the game, their negative issues have come because of a lack of consistency in their displays, lapses in concentration and at times, lack of execution and experience. “When we look at the FNB SPU game, great execution of everything. Even in the second game, we would say the big loss (but) it was literally just moments in the game where the boys just tended to switch off,” he said. “But more so in the second game, we could say that we just lacked in execution. The plan was there, we could clearly see the plan, it’s just the ability to execute. “It was just lack of energy in some sort of regards.” “I think we now know which side of the road we want to be on, and that’s just led our preparations through the roof. The boys are ready for a good game of rugby; it’s going to be a battle. Nothing is going to be given - everything will be worked for. And we also plan on not being push overs. “We really back our plan that we will bring it, and the results will take care of itself.” By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

The loss to FNB WSU hurt, not because it exposed weakness, but because it interrupted the momentum within the team prior to that game. In varsity rugby, margins are thin and narratives shift quickly. However, for Tadean Barkley perspective matters more than the result. “So far, so good with the team,” he says evenly. “We’ve been battling with a lot of off-field problems, with senior players not being able to play, but from a rugby perspective it’s been a strong and encouraging campaign.” Strip away the scoreboard and there’s substance in that claim. This squad has shown bite in contact, discipline at the breakdown and have develop a scrum platform that has held firm under pressure. They have gained fluency with their phase of play, combinations are starting to speak the same language, and the defensive line speed has noticeably sharpened. Where it slipped against FNB WSU was in those final exchanges. “There are always areas to sharpen more especially around game management in the final quarter, but the overall trajectory is positive,” Barkley explains. “We’re improving with every outing.” That long-view approach has shaped the season. Preparation blocks have prioritised sustained conditioning for repeated high-intensity efforts, defensive cohesion under fatigue, and composure in pressure moments. There’s also been a deliberate investment in leadership this is done to empower voices within the group so decisions in critical passages are instinctive, not hesitant. This week’s build-up has been about being clinical. Set-piece accuracy. Breakdown efficiency. Defensive integrity. Ruthlessness finishing inside the opposition half. No noise, just detail. In campaigns like this, character is forged not in comfort but in response. The FNB WSU result was a reminder of the standards required. Barkley’s message is clear: the foundation is solid, the growth is real but now it’s about translating promise into points. The Gemmies are away in round 3 and will face FNB CPUT at 19:00 on Friday 27 February.   By: Bradford Petersen