FNB Wits will be eager to turn their fortunes around in 2026 after a tough FNB Varsity Cup 2025 season saw the University Of Witwaterstrand unceremoniously relegated to FNB Varsity Shield competition. The Wits Blues will kick off their campaign against FNB WSU in East London on Friday, 13 February and will be looking to make a statement. The side will be captained by former Blitzbok player, Latica Nela, who has been impressed with how his troops have conducted themselves during pre-season. “The preparations have been extremely tough, but it’s allowed the guys to form new beliefs and bonds,” he said. “As a team, we feel confident, and the new players have brought so much-needed energy that has revived the team. We believe we can do well.” Wits has managed to retain some key players from last season but will welcome youngsters such as Appiah “Archie” Ndzengu and Timmy Oluwole - two players to watch. The side is known for playing an exciting brand of rugby and giving the ball some air while bashing it upfront with their strong forwards. Nela said their supporter can expect more of the same. “I won’t reveal much, but there are areas we’ve worked on that we think we can be a threat in, and cause teams’ trouble. “I think our supporters will love many parts of our game, and their support for us will be massive. I urge them to come out in numbers.” Nela attended Hilton College and represented the Sharks at age group level before joining the SA Sevens Academy. He had a stint in the Sevens game but moved over to 15s and is currently contracted to the Lions while studying at Wits. This will be his first Varsity campaign with the side, and it’s an opportunity he’s relishing. “There are different aspects to rugby, and I think Varsity rugby is so exciting,” he added. “It brings out more of the type of rugby I want to play. I can’t wait to see what I can contribute to the team, and how far we can go.”   Wits provisional squad (subject to change) Ronan Dutton, Ricardo Brandao, Miguel Smith, Meyer Opperman, Connor White, Sam Bruwer, Dylan Piek, Ruan Welman, Bonga Nxumalo, Hayden Munnery, Johannes Marthinus Oosthuizen, Nokuthenda Mapungwana, Lilitha Ganu, Joshua Ferreira, Camden-Jay Schoeman, Liam Santos, Christopher Kachungunu, Jamaal Feldman, Adem Niewenhoudt, Joshua Van Vreden, Marko Kok, Gideon Diedericks, Appiah Ndzengu, Drew Bennet, Giacchino ''Rekkie'' Gerber, Matthew Coetzee, Dustyn Holmes, Lindani Dweba, Kevon Chirwa, Timi Oluwole, Tirhani Masondo, Keith Chirwa, McMillan Mongwana, Kamohelo Mangaliso Ncunca, Raymond Gordon, Latica Nela. By: Avuyile Sawula

FNB Varsity College, now competing under their new FNB Emeris brand, are gearing up for a familiar challenge as they are preparing to take on the FNB Varsity Cup - just two years after making their debut in the FNB Varsity Shield competition. The Comets topped the 2025 log of the FNB Shield tournament earning automatic promotion into the FNB Varsity Cup and then capped off a dream season by beating Madibaz in the final to be crowned Shield champions as well. Comets coach Jeremy McLaren has come out to admit that the FNB Varsity Cup competition is at a whole different level, but the excitement and momentum in his team are in good condition.  “FNB Varsity Cup has always been the ultimate goal and has a lot of excitement but also in saying that, it’s a totally new territory for us to be able to understand what the competition would be,” McLaren. “But again, you train and prepare for the highest level, so I think we’re pretty much excited as a group and as a university.” The KZN based team has had weeks of hard preparations, and now with less than a week remaining to their debut match against FNB UJ in Johannesburg, the team are at the point of tying up loose ends in their preparations after a good off-season groundwork. “I think we had a really good off-season. The challenge is always just to make sure that we believe in ourselves that we can play at this level and obviously coming back now in January and February we do have a little bit of niggles that we just have to fight through and of course this extreme humidity also takes a lot on us so that’s a massive challenge for us at the moment but from a mental perspective it builds us a little bit stronger” added the coach. McLaren led the team to an incredible title winning campaign last season in the FNB Varsity Shield, however, the gaffer has cautioned his side of the task at hand concealing the teams goals for this competition debut but also revealing a bit in their plan which is to remaining levelheaded and taking the campaign one game at a time. “We want to go as far as we can, I mean if you say you want to win it, you might sound arrogant and if we say we want to go into playoffs we might open ourselves up as a target so we just want to take it one game at a time and make sure we get out of the relegation zone and then work from there into playoffs. “If we have favor, we could then go all the way, but it’s something we need to take day-by-day and see where we find ourselves as a group” concluded the calm and composed coach McLaren.   Provisional squad (subject to change):    Jacques Marais (c), Anwill Prins, Bradley Moroney, Cade Latham, Chritia Els, Chmani Nxoyi, Dallyn Beukes, Danie Van Huizen, Donell Francis, Dylan Walters, Enzo Van Niekerk, Frederick Marx, Garre Muller, Jonathan Horak, Juan Steyl, Khumo-Etsile Nkutha, Langalihle Dlamuka, Laython Nel, Mambo Mkhize, Mbuso Kweyama, Mignon Stevens, MJ Schoeman, Nkazimulo Mzolo, Okuhlekodwa Meyiwa, Philani Khoza, Reece Curtin, Robert Everson, Sinelifa Ncwana, Sivuyiswe Mpendu, Thabo Njapha, and Wade Williams.    By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

FNB UJ will be on a mission to correct the wrongs of past seasons when they kick off their 2026 Varsity Cup campaign on Monday, 16 February. The Orange Army, as they’re affectionately known, remained in the competition after edging FNB Madibaz 24-21 in the promotion relegation fixture last May. Head coach Therlow Pietersen is hoping for a stronger showing from his side, and he says preparations have gone smoothly. “ The mood in the camp has been good, and the boys have been working hard. All teams are in the same space. Everybody has been working, and I think we will see where we are once we get to crunch time.” The Orange Army survived the relegation scare last season and coach Pietersen has identified areas to improve to avoid a similar occurrence. “This year it’s all about getting in 80-minute performances for us,” he explained. “We showed last year that if we can apply ourselves to games and do it for longer periods, then we give ourselves a much better chance. We just need to be disciplined and stick to our plan.” Coach Pietersen has kept the bulk of his squad from last season, while breeding in some young, fresh talent. The side will be co-captained by Kamohelo Molefe and Thabang Mpafi, who has joined the team from the Lions. “The majority of our group we’ve kept from last year, but we have one or two boys going to the SA u20 camp. “However, we have a solid group. Thabang will join from the Lions along with JT Kapank, who was at Noordheuwel and at the Bulls, but now he’s with us.” FNB UJ will kick off their season against newbies Emeris in round 1 of the competition on 16 February in Johannesburg. Tickets and fixtures HERE . Provisional squad (subject to change) Berwyn Bosch, Bian Janse van Rensburg, Connor van der Merwe, Coun-lee Koekman, Damian Bakker, Dylan Viljoen, Excaue Kevani, Francios Prinsloo, Haniel Mankota, Hlumelo Ntweni, Jaden Ballie, Jayden Pringle, John Ford, Joshua Du Toit, Juan Fourie, Kamo Molefe, Katlegho Zwane, Katlego Xaba, Kitso Mokuena, Lesedi Masimole, Marnus Swarts, Nicallen Gabrielsen, Ruven Ferreira, Ryan Marimo, Sbongokuhle (JT) Kapank, Sifiso Magwaza, Thabang Mphafi, Thabo Mashigo, Themba Sibisi, Toy Engelbrecht, Ughan Africa, Vin Van Buuren, Zian Cilliers. By: Avuyile Sawula

Two-time FNB Varsity Cup champions, the Shimlas, are counting down the days to the start of their 2026 campaign, which gets under way in Bloemfontein on Monday 16 February when they host the FNB Maties in a mouth-watering round-one clash. Preparation for the season began as far back as last year, with the Shimlas putting in the hard yards during an intensive preseason. Their warm-up fixtures included familiar foes, the NWU Eagles, as the Free Staters looked to fine-tune combinations and build momentum ahead of the big kick-off. There are, however, a few fresh faces in the squad this season. Several players have moved on to bigger opportunities, including earning places in the Cheetahs setup, opening the door for a new generation to step up and make their mark in the famous royal blue Shimlas jersey. Flyhalf Bradley Giddy has been handed the captaincy for the 2026 season, a role that comes with plenty of responsibility. He will be backed by an experienced leadership core, including live-wire loose forward Henri van Heerden and the exciting outside back Siviwe Zondani. There is a general feeling within the camp that this senior group is more settled, decisive, and assured in their decision-making – an area that at times let the side down last season. Head coach André Tredoux says the squad is chomping at the bit with less than a week to go before they welcome the five-time champions to Shimla Park. “All the boys are really excited to play some exciting student rugby this season,” said Tredoux. “There’s a good buzz in the group and we’re looking forward to what lies ahead. “Bradley Giddy has been appointed as our captain, with Henri van Heerden and Siviwe Zondani providing strong senior leadership. Henri has been with the Shimlas for about five years now, so there’s a lot of experience in that leadership group.” Tredoux also believes the introduction of the new tap or kick rule could play into the Shimlas’ hands. “With the new tap kick law coming in, it’s going to be exciting, and we’re keen to explore what that brings to our game,” he said. “After last year, our decision-makers are a bit more mature, and that’s something we’re really pleased with heading into the Varsity Cup.” The Shimlas mentor also welcomed a fixture list that sees most of their heavyweight clashes played at home, where the side traditionally thrives. “We’ve got a good draw with four home games against some of the bigger universities,” Tredoux added. “We’re really looking forward to hosting them at Shimla Park and playing an exciting, expansive brand of rugby.” Tickets and fixtures HERE . Provisional squad (subject to change): Cornelius Jacobus Bezuidenhout, Sibabalwe Booi, Wynand Johannes Botha, Aiden Christians, Hendrik Jacobus De Beer, Thomas Frederik Dreyer, Kirwin Curtley Du Preez, Keehan Nahum Etson, Bradley Pierre Giddy, Vice Hofmeyr, Henry James Jonker, Maynard Kleynhans, Daniel Christiaan Kriek, Alex Lategan, Hermanus Faasen Hercules Laubscher, Lilitha Lunge, Kungawo Mehlomakulu, Lukas Wilhelmus Meyer, Ongeziwe Olulodwa Mobo, Nkosephayo Sbusiso Ngema, Sandile Nzuza, Shaun Peter Ray, Liam Shamburg, Ryan Smith, Marno Gray Stopforth, Henri van Heerden, Adriaan Johannes Van Niekerk, Gunter Van Rensburg, Johannes Jacobus Venter, Alistaire Vermeulen, Christoffel Jacobus Visser, Eduan Vosloo, Marnus Gerbrand Winter, Siviwe Zondani, Arno Vd Merwe, Ferdi Vergottini, Thamsanqa Edward Mapinga, Kungawo Mbanga, Musa Teboho Moshoaliba, Ruan Smuts, Tasreeq Moerat, Benedictus Marion Claasen, Kubbobonke Gqetwa.

FNB UWC head coach Paul Treu has admitted that the team’s pre-season did not go entirely according to plan after losing a few senior players ahead of the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield campaign. However, the former Springbok Sevens head coach remains confident that his side will put on a strong showing in this year’s tournament. Treu, who also previously served as head coach of the Kenya Sevens, acknowledged the tough physical battles expected up front in the competition, but emphasized that UWC have placed a strong focus on introducing a few new tactical tweaks to sharpen their attack. The University of the Western Cape will kick off their 2026 campaign with an away fixture against FNB UFH at Davidson Stadium on Friday afternoon. “I think pre-season went, I wouldn't say according to plan, but I would say that we focused on a few core things that we thought were going to be important,” said Treu. “I think we've learned a lot of lessons from last year. We obviously lost a few senior players, especially in our forwards. “They're still students, some of them, but they're not eligible anymore. So I think it's going to be a tough battle up front, especially playing with all the top teams and Wits also playing in the Shield - so we put a big emphasis on a few new tweaks in our attack.” Treu says there are high expectations within his squad this year, with a strong focus on playing their best rugby. A key part of that approach has been upskilling the players as they prepare for this season’s showpiece. “I think you have to be at your best every game,” said former Stormers Defensive Coach. “I think what we try to do is obviously to upskill the players and to make sure that they can understand and implement our plans, implement our systems.” He added that his side will continue to work on their technical skills, while also improving their overall game understanding. “We will keep working on the technical skills and just a bit of game understanding, which is always a challenge when you're playing the most important games of the season,” he adds. Tickets and fixtures HERE .   UWC Provisional Squad (subject to change): Aaron Swartz, Keno Alexander, Keith Syster, Juma Amissi, Leachim Adams, Keagan Wood, J’que Huckins, Hlomla, Kerwin Davids, Denver van Wyk, Leigh Braaf, Divan Pieterse, Nhlamulo Shilubane, Leighton Brinkhuis, Kowan Baron, Dwayne Badenhorst, Vincent Cloete, Leighton Damons, Danston Cloete, Jacob Frost, Anele Magadla, Melvin Didericks, Brody Goddard, Fayaaz Hendricks, Melumzi Mandongana, AJ van der Merwe, Pascal Tshimbalanga, Umtha Qwetha-Daza, Daniel Damons, Skyle February, Graigan Matroos, Connér Samuels, Marciano Forbes, Milani Konco, Hlonela Qelile, Niquin Pietersen.   By: Ayanda Frances Felem

The FNB Ixias will be looking to hit the reset button as they put the finishing touches to their preparations for the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup. Their campaign gets underway on Monday night in Bloemfontein, where they will lock horns with the FNB NWU Eagles. There is a fresh feel around the Ixias camp this season, led by a brand-new coaching team. Lubabalo Lento takes charge as head coach, with experienced campaigners Sarel Pretorius and Wian du Preez joining him as assistants. Adding to the renewed sense of purpose is the return of a familiar face, with long-time Ixias stalwart Skillie Bester back in the fold as team manager. On the field, Tokelo Ntaopane has been handed the captaincy for the season, with Kehan Myburg named as his deputy, as the Ixias look to build strong leadership within a youthful squad. CUT endured two extremely challenging seasons marked by inconsistency and uncertainty, but the mood has shifted decisively. This Varsity Cup represents an opportunity for a clean slate – and the chance to reconnect with the proud traditions and glory days of Ixias rugby. Lento believes the excitement within the camp is tangible and says the fresh start has brought renewed motivation and belief. “From our side, there’s definitely a strong sense of excitement in the camp. The guys are really looking forward to the competition,” said Lento. “For me personally, having been part of the setup before helps. There’s continuity – I understand the players and I know the CUT culture. But at the same time, it really does feel like a fresh start for CUT rugby. We lost a lot of players from last season, so we’ve got a young squad and we’ve been working extremely hard.” “There’s good energy, good buy-in, and a real hunger from everyone involved. We’ve been very honest about the last couple of seasons - they were tough - but we’ve used that as motivation rather than baggage. “There’s a clear feeling that this is a new chapter, with new voices, new ideas and renewed standards. Things can only improve if we stay disciplined and connected.” Lento also highlighted the value of his new management team. “Having guys like Wian and Sarel join the coaching staff helped a lot because I’ve worked with them before, so the transition was smooth. And having Mr Bester back is massive for us - he’s extremely experienced and knows this environment inside out.” Monday’s FNB Varsity Cup clash between the Ixias and Eagles at CUT Stadium is set to kick off at 19:00. Tickets and fixtures HERE . JH Bessenger, Jordan Davids, Winton Abrams, Brandon Naude, Jeric Estree, Oyama Frans, Adielson Gouveia, Armand Griesel, Ndinovuyo Holiday, Emlyhn Jacobs, Ashwin Jones, Frederik Fourie, Jan-Hendrik Kleynhans, Ian Klitzke, Johannes B Labuschagne, Malcolm Lamont, Neo Letoetsa, Liyabona Lobese, MC Malan, Malekela Malothane, Neo Kemeng, Jade Muller, Kehan Myburgh, Tokelo Ntaopane, Richard Dean Sciocatti, Neo Ladimo, V. Hope Seyaga, Kutlo Seyoko, KL Shebu, T Stemer, Jean Swart, Raydon Swartbooi, CJ Taljaardt, Jean-Louis Theron, Du Rant Van Aswegen, Devinto Vergotine.

FNB Madibaz were just 4 points away from being promoted to the FNB Varsity Cup when they went down 24-21 to UJ in the 2025 promotion relegation playoff after one of their most successful competitions to date. After reaching the final they ended their fairytale season as beaten finalists and will be looking to go one step further in 2026. There is, however, no place for sentiment as Manuel is quick to point out. It is a clean slate for everyone with the Madibaz focusing on a new challenge in an increasingly competitive environment.   “The competition among the teams has become very tight; it’s getting better and better each year,” the team’s longtime mentor emphasised.   “Teams are bulking up, preparation is improving and with Wits dropping down from the Varsity Cup the bar has been raised even further. Every match is going to be massively competitive.”   His charges have completed two intensive training camps as part of their pre-season preparations and ensuring complete alignment within the squad, Manuel says.   “The focus was on getting absolute clarity around what we want to achieve as a group. We spent a lot of time discussing the strategies we want to implement and making sure there is full buy-in from everyone.”   The coaching staff also spent time on increasing the technical and tactical awareness of each player so that he understands his role and can execute accordingly within the greater game model.   With the tournament looming, maintaining the intensity and discipline developed during the camps – particularly when the pressure is on – is the current objective.   “We have to be better at managing pressure moments and executing at the highest standard when it matters,” Manuel warned.   “If we can do that consistently, it will allow us to be competitive and the opportunity to build on the success of last season.”   A player like inside centre Eddie Kruger, in his fifth year with the team, is expected to have an influential yet calming presence in the backline.   The exploits of newcomer Christiaan van der Merwe, whom Manuel describes as a “powerful ball-carrier capable of generating momentum and consistently getting over the gain line”, will also be interesting to follow.   Out wide, the pace of finishers Emihle Zaza and Jaden Witbooi give the team serious attacking options.   Livewire scrumhalf Cameron Doyle is unfortunately sidelined with an injury and is expected to return later in the campaign.   Achieving physical parity up front will be crucial and Manuel is encouraged by the continuity within his forward pack.   AJ Fleming, Kyle Erasmus, Imibongo Mvuleni, De Wet Goedhals and Sean van Zijl are expected to form the backbone of a unit that is central to Madibaz’s ambitions in 2026. There will be no place to hide when Nelson Mandela University face off against a dangerous FNB CPUT in Cape Town in the first match of their FNB Varsity Shield campaign on Friday, 13 February. Tickets and fixtures HERE .   Provisional squad (subject to change): AJ Flemming, Aqhamile Limba, Bahle Cengani, Baphole Jennings, Brent Klopper, Buhlebemvelo Fipaza, Caleb Friskin, Calvin Bosch, Cameron Doyle, Chad Weiman, Christiaan van der Merwe, Chuma Bloouw, Cole Hilpert, Corne Cloete, Cullen Willows, Dandre van Jaarsveld, De Wet Goedhals, Dewald Gerber, Emihle Zaza, Eddie Kruger (captain), Imibongo Mvuleni, Jaden Witbooi, Jaiden Brewis, Johannes van Zyl, Kyle Erasmus Layron Milborrow, Lemuel Kramer, Lihlumelo Mantewu, Luan Verster, Luke Stegman, Lukhanyiso Olifant, Marco Coetzee, Marthinus Strydom, Milani Bityo, N’umaan Jappie, Oneliswe Fani, Qurin Cupido, Raashied Conrad, Ruwaan Zealand, Sandi Qhina, Sean van Zijl, Somila Yakayaka, Thabo Sonamzi, Uyanda Tshaka, Xolani Hlatshwayo.

With the 2026 edition of FNB Varsity Cup kicking off on 16 February we cast the spotlight on the players ready to announce themselves and live up to the hype. Building on standout performances from past tournaments we've identified individuals from each team who are primed for a breakout season. Here are the players we believe are set to take the next step in their careers, play a key role in the team's success and stamp their authority on the tournament as the next generation of stars. Ezekiel Ngobeni (FNB Maties) The Maroon Machine skipper in 2025 was instrumental early on in their campaign winning multiple FNB Player That Rocks awards and scored a hattrick in their game against the Ikeys. His season was interrupted by injury, but the dynamic scrummie returned for the final and was nominated for both the FNB Overall Player That Rocks as well as FNB Back That Rocks award. Signed a contract with WP so expect him to feature heavily if FNB Maties compete for the title. Tokelo Ntaopane (FNB CUT) The Ixias hooker comes with the pedigree of having played in Grant Komo and Craven Week sides when he was at school at Bethlehem Voortrekker. Regarded as a rising star in Bloem he notably scored a hat-trick last year against the Witsies and picked up the FNB Player that Rocks award for his performance. Keep an eye on him to make a big impact once more with powerful close-range drives and mauls. Edward Sigauke (FNB Emeris) The Sharks Academy graduate was exceptional for FNB Emeris in 2025 ensuring their automatic promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup after they claimed the Shield trophy in decisive fashion. He was part of the Zimbabwean national team that qualified for the World Cup and was also nominated for FNB Back That Rocks for his performances in the Shield competition. Look for him to once more feature heavily and wreck defenders this season. Luan Van Der Walt (FNB NWU) The Eagles fullback had a stellar 2025 tournament scoring the second most tries of the season including a hat-trick and a memorable long range intercept to earn the FNB Player That Rocks award against Wits. He will no doubt be instrumental out wide if the Potchefstroom side want to make a run for the trophy they last lifted in 2023. Munashe Dukuswa (FNB Tuks) With Grant Komo and u19 provincial experience in his pedigree, Munashe Dukuswa was deadly on the wing for the Stripe Generation scoring several tries. The former champs will be looking to get in space as often as possible if they are to return to title contention. Keagan Blanckenberg (FNB UCT) The Ikeys vice captain started his career off in the backline scoring some memorable tries for Bishops before coming to FNB UCT where he thrived in a new role as hooker scoring a brace against Shimlas last year. He still hasnt lost the agilty and step so look out for him to be hovering in the backline adding extra pace out wide for the Ikeys. Liam Shamburg (FNB UFS) Nominated for Suzuki Rookie of the Year in 2025, Shamburg immediately made an impact for the Shimlas. The flanker who can shift to eigthman brought pure physicality every week. Smart, relentless and never looked out of place he notablably scored the fastest try of the season when he galloped through three defenders to score within 18 seconds of kick-off. If his debut season is anything to go by then you can bet that he will be coming in hot this year. We can't wait to see how the 2026 season develops and w hich players will seize their moment on the big stage. Get to the games and witness who will define the campaign and establish themselves as the standout performers of the season. Fixtures and tickets HERE .

It's no secret that the FNB Varsity Cup tournament is one of South Africa’s most important breeding grounds for rugby talent. Year after year the competition offers student-athletes a high performance platform to test themselves against the best while providing a bridge between university rugby and the professional game. As the countdown begins to the 2026 season we turn our attention to the success stories that emerged from the 2025 campaign. A number of standout performers used the FNB Varsity Cup stage to elevate their profiles, earn professional opportunities, and take the next step in their rugby journeys. Their progression is a clear reminder of the tournament's role in shaping the future of the game. Here are just some of the standout performers who were recognised and rewarded with provincial or national contracts. Zachary Porthen: FNB UCT Ikeys to the Springboks Position: Prop Accolade: Crowned 2025 champions with FNB UCT The Ikeys prop become youngest Springbok prop ever after making his debut in the green and gold against Japan just months after winning the FNB Varsity Cup 2025 title. He also signed a contract with the Stormers prior to making two appearances for the Boks. Alzeadon Felix: FNB UJ to the Junior Boks Position: Flyhalf Accolade: Voted as the Suzuki Rookie of the Year after the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup season At just 19 years old the Orange Army flyhalf marshalled the UJ backline like a seasoned veteran and was often the start and finish for some of their most memorable tries. His performance in his debut season was rewarded by called up to represent the Junior Springboks against Scotland in their final pool match at the World Rugby U20 Championship. Jacques Marais: FNB Emeris to the Sharks Position: Hooker Accolade: Scored 12 tries in FNB Varsity Shield 2025 to help FNB Emeris be automatically promoted to the FNB Varsity Cup this year. He was also nominated for the FNB Overall Player That Rocks award and then went on to make his debut for the Sharks against the Bulls in August 2025. Ramón Uys: FNB UFS to the Cheetahs Position: Flanker Accolade: Standout performer for the Shimlas in the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup , earning back-to-back Player That Rocks awards in home games against FNB Wits and FNB UJ. He signed for the Cheetahs and joins older brother Pierre Uys who became a Shimlas legend after captaining the Free State University to FNB Varsity Cup glory in 2024. Ntokozo Makhaza: FNB UCT to the Springboks and Cheetahs Position: Wing Accolade: All time top points scorer in FNB Varsity Cup history, back-to-back FNB Overall Player That Rocks winner in 2024 and 2025, scored 32 points in the final to help the Ikeys be crowned champions and then picked for the Springbok alignment camp. He is currently under contract with the Cheetahs. Ntobeko Shezi: FNB NWU to the Griquas Position: Prop Accolade: The Eagles tighthead was a powerhouse and dominated the set pieces, driving his team forward with his force and relentless strength. He picked up several FNB Player That Rocks awards and his efforts were rewarded with a contract at the Griquas who went on to win the 2025 Currie Cup. Grant De Jager: FNB Maties to the Blitzboks Position: Wing/centre Accolades: Won the Suzuki Rookie of the Year in 2023 and was a key player in the 2025 FNB Varsity Cup season helping Maties to reach the final. He signed for the Blitzboks in September. Daimon O'Connell: FNB Tuks to the Blue Bulls Accolade: The Stripe Generation scrummie was a notable performer on their return to the FNB Varsity Cup and when the tournament ended he signed for the Blue Bulls taking part in their Currie Cup campaign. Luke Burger: FNB UCT to the Stormers Position: Centre Accolade: Made such an impression at the Ikeys during FNB Varsity Cup 2025 that he was signed by the Stormers during the tournament. Notable mentions FNB CUT - Juan Smith was selected to play for the Blitzboks in Dubai, Zac Bester to the Leopards. FNB UJ - Sasko Ndlovu to the Cheetahs, Neil Hansen signed for the Kobe Steelers in Japan FNB Maties - Carel Vd Merwe to Griquas, Ezekiel Ngobeni to Western Province and Joel Leotlela was selected to play for the Blitzboks 'A' team. FNB Emeris - Edward Sigauke played for the Zimbabwe national team helping them win the Rugby Africa Men's Cup and qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. FNB UCT - Tom Nel to the Currie Cup winning Griquas, Mhleli Khuzwayo to Western Province. FNB NWU - Indiphile Tyeda and Naiden Jaarts to the Leopards.

The FNB Varsity Cup welcome SportPesa as a new National partner, marking a significant step forward in expanding opportunities for South African rugby talent. SportPesa’s involvement aligns strongly with the tournaments’ mission to provide a platform for player development, academic balance, and long-term growth within the sport – a fact already demonstrated through their multi-year partnership with Varsity Football men’s and women’s competitions which launched in January 2025. “Partnering with SportPesa is an incredibly exciting step for the FNB Varsity Cup” said Lisa Roux, Sponsorship Manager at Advent Sport Entertainment and Media (ASEM), managing agency for Varsity Cup. “Their passion for developing talent aligns perfectly with our vision for the tournaments and we’ve quickly built a strong working relationship with them. We see real value in joining forces with an organisation that not only invests in high-performance rugby, but also in community upliftment and long-term athlete development.” As a brand already deeply invested in South African rugby through their partnership with the Stormers, SportPesa has consistently demonstrated a commitment to supporting pathways that nurture emerging athletes. Their focus on uplifting the next generation of players made this collaboration a natural extension of their existing footprint in the rugby landscape. “We’re incredibly excited to extend our involvement in South African rugby through this partnership with the FNB Varsity Cup,” says Dean Delaney, Managing Director of SportPesa South Africa. “Following our recent collaboration with Varsity Sports, we’ve seen first-hand the power of authentic engagement in building strong brand association and trust with teams, institutions, and supporters alike.” “Our objective is to support and celebrate local, community-based sport whether that’s within universities or at a local level, by meaningfully contributing to the ecosystems that allow sport to thrive. We believe that by investing responsibly in structured competitions and development pathways, we can play a small but important role in growing rugby as a category and supporting the journey of future sporting stars” adds Delaney.  This partnership enables Varsity Cup to amplify the competition, creating even more opportunities for both male and female student athletes across South Africa.  The FNB Varsity Cup kicks off on Monday, 16 February, with the FNB Varsity Shield competition starting on Friday, 13 February. The FNB Varsity Cup Women’s competition will take place between 6 March and 17 April. For upcoming fixtures and logs click HERE . For more info on SportPesa click HERE .

With the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield tournament set to kick off on Friday, 13 February we set the stage by taking a look back at an unforgettable 2025 season where FNB Varsity College (now known as FNB Emeris) rose to the occasion and lifted the trophy after an emphatic victory over FNB Madibaz to earn a historic promotion to the FNB Varsity Cup. Here are some of the most memorable moments from the epic 2025 season. Round 1: In the opening round of the FNB Varsity Shield 2025 season, newcomers FNB SPU clutched a dramatic late winner against FNB UKZN in a hotly contested try-fest in Kimberley while FNB Varsity College got a flying start over FNB Madibaz. Both Cape Town teams were victorious as FNB UWC outplayed FNB WSU at home while FNB CPUT roared on home turf. Round 2: FNB UKZN bounced back in style when the Impi hosted FNB WSU in their round 2 fixture at Howard College Stadium on Thursday. FNB Madibaz secured their first tournament maximum points after defeating UFH at Madibaz Stadium and in a nail-biting clash at Suzuki Stadium, FNB CPUT were the last men standing after narrowly beating FNB SPU while FNB UWC roared on the road against FNB Varsity College.   Round 3: A dramatic showdown at a rain-soaked Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley saw FNB Varsity College comeback from 21-0 down to beat hosts FNB SPU while FNB CPUT maintained their unbeaten run in the tournament, easing past FNB WSU at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in East London. FNB UWC remained undefeated and stayed top of the log after thrashing FNB UFH in Bellville, while FNB Madibaz and FNB Varsity College won on the road. Round 4: Drama as FNB Madibaz score 3 minutes after the hooter to snatch victory over former champs FNB UWC. Fans witnessed another thrilling finish at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in East London where FNB WSU held on for a tight 21-20 victory over FNB SPU. Meanwhile in Bellvile FNB CPUT put on a ruthless display over the Impi to win the match 49-24  while FNB Varsity College staged yet another comeback to beat the Blues in Alice. Round 5: FNB Varsity College caused the biggest upset of the night after handing log leaders FNB CPUT their first defeat of the season in emphatic fashion. The Comets moved up into top spot while in Bellville FNB UWC returned to winning ways after beating a gritty Impi side. FNB SPU snatched a late winner against FNB UFH while FNB Madibaz cruised past FNB WSU at Sisa Dukashe Stadium.   Round 6: It went down to the wire in two dramatic games where the FNB CPUT Blue Wave beat Bellville rivals FNB UWC by just one point while in Alice the bottom of the log battle lived up to expectations as home side FNB UFH scored in the 83rd min to beat Easten Cape rivals FNB WSU.  The Comets remained top of the log after beating FNB UKZN while FNB Madibaz cruised past FNB SPU. Round 7: The FNB Varsity College Comets topped the log and secured automatic promotion into the FNB Varsity Cup with a win against FNB WSU who picked up a crucial bonus point to move out of relegation danger. FNB Madibaz secured a semi-final place after a victory over FNB CPUT and booked a spot in the FNB Varsity Cup promotion-relegation match while FNB UWC staged a stunning comeback to defeat the Gemmies in a nailbiter. The UKZN Impi finished bottom of the log. Semi-finals: The Comets outsclassed FNB CPUT in Durban while in Gqeberha FNB Madibaz booked their ticket to the final after dispatching FNB UWC with relative ease. Final: FNB Varsity college were crowned champions after a decisive 22-7 victory over FNB Madibaz. FNB Players of the Tournament winners: Suzuki Rookie of the Year: 2026 will see a new champion being crowned and if last year's tournament is anything to go by then expect fireworks from the very first round on 13 February as teams begin their campaigns to see Who’s NXT to lift the trophy and who will earn promotion. Fixtures HERE . Tickets coming soon.

On 16 February the 2026 edition of the FNB Varsity Cup is set to return, bringing with it the most entertaining and competitive student rugby on the planet. With the countdown underway we look back at the thrilling 2025 tournament which showcased South African rugby at its finest. The FNB UCT Ikey Tigers ended their 11-year title drought with a commanding 44-21 victory over rivals FNB Maties in an epic final at a packed Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. Here are the highlights from the iconic 2025 season. Round 1: The season kicked-off with a bang as FNB Maties avenged their semi-final loss in 2024 with a nail-biting victory over the defending champs Shimlas. FNB CUT claimed crucial points away from home and newly promoted FNB UP-Tuks picked up a bonus point win on their return to the competition. Round 2: FNB UP-Tuks defeated fellow Gauteng neighbours FNB UJ at Tuks Stadium. In the Free State, FNB CUT and FNB Shimlas were victorious over FNB UCT Ikeys and FNB Wits respectively while FNB Maties stole the show in Potchefstroom over the FNB NWU Eagles. Round 3: A twelve try thriller in Bloemfontein was the highlight of FNB Varsity Cup round 3 where defending champions FNB UFS held on to narrowly beat a surging Orange Army. In Stellenbosch the FNB Maties demolished FNB CUT to top the log standings while on the FNB UCT Ikeys handed the Stripe Generation their first defeat of the season. Round 4: The halfway point of FNB Varsity Cup 2025 saw another thrilling round end with dramatic results as the FNB NWU Eagles stunned defending champions FNB UFS Shimlas in Potchefstroom while a wounded FNB UP-Tuks ran riot over FNB CUT in Bloemfontein. Meanwhile in Cape Town FNB UCT pulled of a statement victory by running in 10 tries against FNB Wits at the Green Mile. The night also saw a victory for FNB Maties beat the Orange Army to keep top spot on the log and remain unbeaten Round 5: The much-anticipated Cape derby went down to the wire in Stellenbosch and it was log leaders FNB Maties who clutched a try at the death to beat historical rivals FNB UCT in a thrilling clash. FNB UP-Tuks beat the FNB NWU Eagles to remain in contention for the playoffs while FNB UJ painted the city orange after upping the pressure in the second half against the Witsies to be crowned kings of Jozi. Round 6: With just one round remaining until the semi-finals, the 2025 season took another dramatic turn after FNB UP-Tuks stunned FNB Maties at Danie Craven Stadium on Monday to go top of the log. FNB UCT Ikeys geared closer to the play-off stages with an easy win over defending champs FNB UFS Shimlas on the Green Mile while FNB CUT escaped the relegation zone. The Eagles kept their hopes of a semi-final spot alive after crushing FNB UJ who dropped into 7th place. Round 7: The semi-finalists were decided in dramatic fashion as defending champs FNB UFS showed their pedigree by beating FNB Tuks in Pretoria. FNB Maties cruised past FNB Wits to claim top spot on the log and a home semi-final while the loss saw the Witsies stay bottom of the log to be automatically relegated to the FNB Varsity Shield. FNB UCT Ikeys triumphed over FNB UJ in a highly competitive and exciting match. The Cape side ended the group stage in 3rd. Semi-finals: FNB UCT advanced to their fourth consecutive final after defeating FNB UP-Tuks at Tuks Stadium with a decisive performance while log leaders FNB Maties earned a hard-fought victory over defending champions FNB UFS Shimlas at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch. Final:    FNB UCT were crowned champion after a dramatic win against rivals FNB Maties. FNB Players of tournament: Suzuki Rookie of the Year: Can FNB UCT be crowned back-to-back champions or will another team rise up and lift the 2026 trophy? Which players will emerge as the top stars and who will raise their hands and demand recognition at the highest level. On 16 February the search to discover “Who’s NXT” begins. Fixtures HERE . Tickets coming soon.