The Baby Blues stunned defending champions FNB Maties at home in the FNB Varsity Cup Women’s opener at the Danie Craven Stadium. Last year’s finalists FNB UP-Tuks produced a polished second-half display to overcome the Orange Army and in Durban the UKZN Impi help on the beat the University Of the Western Cape.   FNB Maties 5-19 FNB UFH Women The FNB Varsity Cup Women’s competition kicked off with a 14-point victory for FNB UFH Women who stunned FNB Maties by 19-5 in Stellenbosch on Friday. Cwenga Joni opened the scoring on the 10-minute mark after rounding the FNB Maties Women defense with some fancy footwork to dot down under the posts. FNB UFH flyhalf, Inga Qogi, made no mistake with the conversion to give the visitors a 7-0 lead. The visitors piled on the pressure forcing FNB Maties into some uncharacteristic errors. That pressure resulted in a FNB UFH scrum inside Stellenbosch’s 22’ which saw them double their lead thanks to a brilliantly executed scrum set piece, with Sindisiwe Mbonja applying the finishing touch. Qogi’s conversion was good, giving FNB UFH a 14-0 lead heading into half-time. The Maroon Machine came into the second half with a slight advantage as a result of Sibabalwe Jobo’s yellow card just before the break. The hosts made that numerical advantage count as Palesa Matee carved through the defense to get the defending champions on the board. Ankia Viljoen’s conversion struck the upright and stayed out to keep the score at 14-5 in favor of the away side. Maties struggled to get a grip on the game with one too many handling errors. The visiting side made the most of their opportunities while showing a free-flowing style of rugby. Joni got her second of the afternoon after FNB UFH kept the ball moving through the hands that saw the winger going over the line in the left-hand corner. Qogi’s attempt to add the extra two-points had the direction but just fell short as the visitors moved into an unassailable 19-5 lead just before the hour mark. Both sides came close to adding a try apiece but just couldn’t manage to get over the line as the defending champions came up short in their season opener at the Danie Craven.   SCORERS   FNB Maties Women: (0) 5   Tries: Palesa Matee   FNB UFH Women: (14) 19 Tries:  Cwenga Joni X2, Sindisiwe Mbonja   FNB Player of the Match:  Cwenga Joni (FNB UFH Women)   TEAMS: FNB Maties Women:  Lekobane Masebe, Sesethu Dumke, Sesethu Ntamnani, Sarah Krone, Catherine Coetzee, Stefney-Rose De Vries, Khanyisile Mpingane, Palesa Matee, Taliyah Bussack, Ankia Viljoen, Tiana van Wyk, Jenna Meyer, Mijean Fryer, Mmanthopeng Thopola, Wendy Lewak. FNB UFH Women: Mila Wawa, Aphiwe Nqana, Eyam Ngalo, Lilitha Ngwenze, Masie Mathangane, Thokozani Sikela, Simamnkele Jolingana, Rose Haka, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Inga Qogi, Cwenga Joni, Lilitha Vakalisa, Sibabalwe Jobo, Siyolise Mbilase, Litha Tofu.   FNB UJ Women 7-19 FNB UP-Tuks Women  FNB UP-Tuks delivered a polished second half performance to down FNB UJ Women in the opening round of the FNB Varsity Cup Women in Johannesburg on Friday. The match, which started 30 minutes due to lightning, and bad weather forced both sides to change their game plans and keep ball in hand. The hosts had a perfect start and opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Thabisile Zungu was at the end of some silk play from the backline. The tempo of the game slowed down after that score until UP-Tuks responded in the 18th minute through fullback Kwanga Majebe. The side led by coach Lizanne Jacobs scored another try six minutes later when Precious Tlaka found herself in space after a break to score a point-of-origin try and extend her side’s lead. FNB UP-Tuks led 14-7 at the break.  The rain continued to pour down in the second half, and it was neck and neck for most parts of the half. FNB UP-Tuks continued their momentum, and Lidene Kruger powered her way through after the 50th minute mark to take her side’s lead to 19-7. That would be the last score of the game, and UJ tried to fight back but FNB UP-Tuks defended well in tough, wet conditions to win their fight game of the tournament.    SCORERS:   FNB UJ Women : (7) 7 Tries:  Thabisile Zungu.   FNB UP-Tuks Women:  (14) 14 Tries:  Kwanga Majebe, Precious Tlaka, Lidene Kruger.   FNB Player of the Match:  Precious Tlaka (FNB UJ Women)   TEAMS: FNB UJ Women:  Vuyiswa Dlamini, Salizwa Tyali, Alutha Ngcezula, Limamkele Duma, Lethiwe Buthelezi, Siyanda Mtsweni, Ntandoyenkosi Nhleko, Amber Howell, Risper Mgwenya, Siham Chtioui, Erica Ekeji, Thabisile Zungu, Sindiswa Ngwenya, Boitumelo Motshoane, Hlobisile Mbatha.  FNB UP-Tuks Women:  Cassidy Jacobs, Aphiwe Masuku, Ox Xholi, Itumeleng Malala, Mbali Ndlovu, Thando Mokatse, Angelique Ross-Allen, Gugu Mncwabe, Erin Prins, Precious Tlaka, Tesmeque Maritz, Lidene Kruger, Abigail de Jager, Anele Mgwazela, Kwanga Majebe.   FNB UKZN Women14-10 FNB UWC Women It was the IMPI Ladies that drew first blood after a series of attacking plays by the home team.  The ball was received wide by Dimpho Mogashoa, who went over the try line to dot down just before the first Strategy break of the game. A try which was beautifully converted by Sphesihle Fihlela to give the home team the lead.  The home team kept on pressing after the first strategy break; however, they couldn’t get anything from the efforts.  Moment switched in favor of the away team about 5 minutes away from halftime as FNB UWC Women increased intensity on their scrums. The fight of the Western Cape ladies did not bear any fruits as the game went into the 7-0 to UKZN.  The second half began and the visitors looked more dangerous team.  FNB UWC were finally rewarded for their fight as Davedine March squeezed through to get something out wide after a swift attacking move.  The visitors struck again at the 63rd minute as captain Lee-Amber Beukes dotted down from an impressive left to right switched play to take the score to 7-10 to the visiting teams.  It was right at the end when FNB UKZN Women stole the match in the most dramatic way, as a scrum came deep within the half of the visitors. The home team showcased a strong scrum as the big Tight-Head prop Siphokuhle Mdletshe dotted down the winning try of the match with less than 5 minutes to play.  IMPI ladies hung on to their lead to claim victory in the most dramatic way.    SCORERS   FNB UKZN Women : (7) 14 Tries:  Dimpho Mogashoa, Siphokuhle Mdletshe   FNB UWC Women : (0) 10 Tries:  Davedine March, Lee-Amber Beukes    FNB Player of the Match : Sphesihle Fihlela (FNB UKZN)   TEAMS FNB UKZN Women : Sandulelo Nyawose, Nonduduzo Yengwa, Siphokuhle Mdletshe, Zama Mbeje, Lulama Cele, Athiphile Njiyela, Teddy Gatyana, Hlekane Baloyi, Asanda Mnyandu, Snethemba Mzimela, Charmaine Mogashoa, Mahlogonolo Nkoane, Bokamoso Mokali, Tshepiso Maseme, Sphesihle Fihlela.

In every moment, Siyasanga Ngubelanga embodied a quiet authority driven by purpose. His captaincy at FNB CPUT was never about chasing the spotlight, but about leading through service, upholding high standards, and instilling unwavering belief within the team. Looking back, Ngubelanga hoped to be remembered not for accolades, but for how he gave of himself. “I hope everyone remembers me more as a servant and someone who gave all that I had,” he reflected.   The 2022 FNB Varsity Shield final loss to FNB UFH stands as a defining chapter of his captaincy. “Losing final still hurts,” he admitted. “We would have created history by winning three times in a row.” Yet even in heartbreak, he carried the badge with responsibility and dignity. That same spirit was evident in his final interview as captain, when emotions could have been dominated by disappointment, his words instead revealed unwavering loyalty, “I am not disappointed ma’am, I love CPUT.” In that moment, it became clear that his leadership was never conditional on outcomes. His love for the institution did not end with the final whistle, nor with the handing over of the armband. Ngubelanga valued standards over slogans, believing leadership showed in daily actions, respect, discipline and relentless effort. He drew inspiration from former leaders Lunathi Nxele and Butsha Mputa, stepping into a culture built on work ethic and unity. After his stint in Romania, Ngubelanga brought his growth back home. The professionalism, adaptability, discipline and resilience he developed abroad now serve the FNB CPUT squad, as he actively mentors’ players and pours his experience into strengthening the squad on and off the field. Because the love did not end that day. His belief remains simple but demanding, place pressure on yourself, respect every game, and play as if it is your last. “If you’re too big to serve, you’re too small to lead.” By Mihlali Maraule

After a slow start to their 2026 FNB Varsity Shield campaign, FNB Wits have found their mojo and are playing an entertaining brand of rugby. One of the players who has been at the forefront of their attack and has contributed crucial points is utility back Lindani Dweba. Dweba plays outside centre but can slot in on the wing and at fullback. He was part of the Wits side that was relegated in 2025 but now looks set to lead the side back to the Cup. “I think my journey at Wits has been an up and down hill, but now it feels like we are on the up,” he said. “When we got relegated, we were disappointed but didn’t take that as a negative. We have a young team, and we are building something special here. “The chemistry is great, and the future looks bright for the side. Hopefully, we can play well for the rest of the season and return to the Varsity Cup.” Dweba is also involved in the Lions junior structures and hopes his performances this season will catch the eyes of potential selectors. “Yeah, look, as a player you obviously want to impress, but my focus is to help the team achieve our goals this season.” “I’m also upping my performances week in and out, and that’s something I came into this tournament looking to do. Who knows, hopefully someone out there is watching.” The former Hudson Park High School also has ambitions to play international rugby one day. He’s seen the pipeline from Varsity rugby and believes playing in the Varsity Shield could open doors for him. “There are a lot of Springboks and professional players that played in this tournament, so that’s encouraging,” he added. “There are many opportunities, and I’m very optimistic and motivated to keep on playing and giving my best. “I know my day will come when I make the jump from semi-pro to professional.” The youngster will be looking to continue his fine form when the Wits Blues tackle FNB CPUT at the Wits Rugby Stadium on Friday at 17:00.   By: Avuyile Sawula.

The brand-new FNB Varsity Cup Women’s campaign kicks off this Friday as defending champions FNB Maties host FNB UFH at the Danie Craven Stadium. The fourth edition will be taking on a new format in 2026 that will see the tournament adopting the same format as the men’s FNB Varsity Cup and Shield tournaments in a bid to streamline the competition. The competitors will no longer be divided into two different pools, meaning that each team will have the chance to square off before meeting in the semi-finals and eventual final. Coach Aneesah Adams is excited by her team’s prospects in 2026, "Pre-season has gone really well overall. The group has shown great commitment and work ethic from the start. Like most pre-seasons, we had a few challenges with managing injuries and balancing academic commitments, but the players have handled it really well. It’s also been a good opportunity to build depth in the squad and focus on our conditioning and core skills." The Maroon Machine will have their sights set on defending their title and become the first team to lift the coveted title on three occasions. Stellies will want to hit the ground running in their first outing where they’ll want to lay down a marker to build on for the rest of the campaign while entertaining their faithful supporters in the Cape winelands. The Maties Women’s coach insists that the team's mindset hasn't changed as a result of heading into the campaign as champions, " Our approach hasn’t changed too much. We’ve focused on reinforcing our standards and reminding the players that success comes from consistency in the small things. We’ve also spoken about embracing the challenge of being a team that others want to beat, and using that as motivation rather than pressure". Adams added, "Naturally there’s an expectation that comes with being champions, but internally our focus is more on performance and development of our recruitment pathways than outcome. If we continue to focus on our processes and execute what we’ve been working on, the results will take care of themselves" when asked if there was internal pressure to defend their title. "What excites me most is seeing the group finally get the opportunity to put all the work from pre-season into a match environment. There’s a lot of energy in the squad and a strong sense of togetherness. It’s always special to see the players express themselves on the field and represent the university" said the Maties Women's mentor.   FNB Maties Women Squad:   Sesethu Ntamnani, Lekobane Maria Masebe, Coby Mentoor, Sesethu Dumke, Devonite Swartz, Sarah Krone, Cate Coetzee, Courtney Hickson, Iviwe Mokhele, Stefney-Rose De Vire, Khanyisile Mpilingane, Gabby-Lee Davids, Palesa Matee, Taliyah Bussack, Zikhona Plaatjies, Ankia Viljoen, Elme Kruger, Jenna Meyer, Mijeane Fryer, Ilze Hattingh, Tiana Van Wyk, Confidence Ramonyatse, Sasha Kruger, Charmein Thopola, Janine Amutenja, Catherine Barton, Jo-eke Haas, Wendy Lewak.   By: Kieryn Thompson.

With the FNB Varsity Cup Women 2026 season almost underway, FNB UKZN Impi are embracing their underdog status with confidence, determined to turn it into their driving force as they prepare to challenge the country’s top university rugby sides. FNB UKZN Women’s head coach, Muziwandile Malinga, who is also the Junior Springbok ladies head coach, believes that his side can bring something different to the competition this year after long preseason preparations with his team. “I guess we will find out on the field how different our team will be this year. There is something about being an underdog that makes you want to unleash the beast in you,” he said. “This year we looked at both our strengths and weaknesses, we were privileged to spend time as a team and worked on our team culture, mindset and skill set.” The man at the helm of the FNB UKZN Impi Ladies backed his players’ qualities, giving a preview of some of the exciting players to watch out for. “This team is made up of fantastic players, and we can’t wait to show case what they can do as a group.” “We have a mixed set of players this year. Nomonde Mbanjwa did a great job for this team and has moved on to the senior Sharks set up, she is replaced by Athiphila Njiyela who has the Varsity Cup experience. Lulama Cele will be joining hands with Avela Gwala who is having a good season currently at Sharks Senior team. We also have great newcomers such as Hlekane Baloyi in the same pack. Our game drivers Sne and Bokamoso control the game so well.”   FNB UKZN Provisional Squad :   Sandulelo Nyawose, Nonduduzo Yengwa, Sphokuhle Mdletshe, Zama Mbeje, Lulama Cele, Athiphile Njiyela, Avela Gwala, Hlekane Baloyi, Asanda Mnyandu, Snethemba Mzimela, Dimpho Mogasho, Teddy Gatyana, Bokamoso anomalies, Tshepiso Maseme, Sphesihle Fihlela, Zandile Ngcobo, Paseka Manganyi, Lynndray Scorgie, Siphokazi Ndlela, Nosipho Mkhize, Mahlogonolo Nkoane, Zanele Hlongwane, Neo Mokwena.   By: Mpendulo Letsoalo

Following a challenging outing in the FNB Varsity Shield, FNB UFH head coach Sabelo offered an honest assessment of his team’s recent performance while outlining their focus and determination as they look to respond in the matches ahead. Assessing the previous match, the coach admitted it was a disappointing result despite the team’s efforts. “It was not a good day for us. The players gave everything, but things simply did not go our way,” he said. A major concern was the loss of control in key areas of the game, particularly at set piece. “We were losing our set pieces, and you cannot expect to play quality rugby without a solid foundation there. Set pieces are crucial as they give you structure and momentum.” In addition, poor decision-making and a failure to capitalise on scoring opportunities proved costly. “Our execution was not where it needed to be. We created chances but could not convert them, and that made it difficult to impose our plan.” Despite the setbacks, the coach highlighted the positive attitude within the squad. While acknowledging that challenges exist, he remains encouraged by the players’ commitment. “Yes, there are challenges, but the players continue to show a good attitude. The mood in the camp is still positive, and they are willing to give their best until the last game of the robin rounds. It is now about finding our winning rhythm.” The campaign has not unfolded as planned, with UFH currently sitting at the bottom of the standings. Coach Sabelo admitted the tournament has tested his squad. “Things have not gone according to plan. We have tried different strategies, but it has been difficult to fully execute them. However, we will continue to fight for points in the remaining fixtures.” On occupying last position on the log, he was honest about the situation but optimistic about recovery. “It is not an easy position to be in, but we are still within reach of climbing out of the position. A few wins and the right results can change everything.” The focus on moving forward is clear: take one match at a time and maintain belief within the squad. “Our strategy is to concentrate on each game individually and keep motivating the players to stay positive.” The Blues take on the UKZN Impi this Thursday at 7pm.   By Thembela Tangana

The FNB Madibaz presented a united front to tame FNB UFH and their vociferous supporters in their third-round FNB Varsity Shield rugby match in Alice on Friday. David Manuel’s outfit, who made it back-to-back wins as they dismantled their opponents 49-11 in their own backyard, are back for more of the same against FNB WSU.   “We focus a lot on growth and being better week after week,” lock Dewald Gerber, who crossed the whitewash for one of the Gqeberha side’s nine tries, said.   “We said that the 23 players and management are our community. We knew we needed to stand strong and motivate each other throughout.”   If someone made a mistake, two or three players were right there to “lift him” and motivate him to “focus on the next job. We can’t go down a dark tunnel because of one error,” Gerber said.   That translated into a dominant forward display.   “We spoke the whole week about winning the set-piece battle and we dominated there,” Gerber, explaining that they anticipated the game would be won by the best forward pack on the day, said.   Although proud of their effort, he cautioned that there were still improvements to be made before Friday’s home game against WSU. The latter are two points to the good on the log as a result of their drawn match against Wits in the first round and remain unbeaten from their opening salvo.   As to his own performance, Gerber confessed that he had been “shocked” but “grateful” after receiving the nod from the adjudicators.   “It just shows that I have it in me.”   Being able to switch between lock and the side of the scrum, the man who was born in Komani but moved to Gqeberha three years later is steadily carving out his place as a key utility forward in the FNB Madibaz set-up.   He possesses a physical presence and mature outlook that belie his age and auger well for the future.   His FNB Varsity Shield debut was against CPUT in the opening round of the 2024 season – his very first at this level - and his last performance shows there is more to come from the Mandela University sport management student.   While pleased with his impact, Gerber is working hard to better his power step into contact whether tackling or carrying.   “Coach David has been hard on me to improve that.”   The coaching team, he said, always pushed them to be the best version of themselves.    The match takes place at the Madibaz Stadium. Kick-off is at 16h30.     By: Jesica Slabbert

As the team prepares for the upcoming FNB Varsity Cup women’s campaign, their aim is to compete strongly and fight for a place in the knockout rounds. Head coach, Mervano Da Silva, acknowledged that preparations were not entirely smooth but praised the squad for their response. “Our preparations were hit with a few curve balls, but the players and staff have done really well to adapt to circumstances and get the team to a level where we’ll be competitive.” Several players are expected to play key roles during the campaign. Lee-Amber Beukes, Marli George and Anja Le Roux are expected to influence games, while Akhona Nkosi, Jada Davids and Yanelisa Plaatjie will bring power and dominance to the pack. New additions expected to make an impact include Davidene March, Ronecia Gordon, Saadiqa Corbett and Mivuyo Pawuli. “Despite a few nerves for kick-off, the mood in the camp is positive. The ladies have really raised their standards for this season and there’s been good buy-in from the squad, so they’re locked in for the challenges ahead.” Leading the team is captain Lee-Amber Beukes, captaining the team for the third season, for her, this role carries deep meaning. “Captaining this team is an honour and a privilege, it’s about leading a team of strong women, pushing boundaries and making our mark.” She says the team’s identity is built on unity and determination. “We’re about resilience, grit and heart.” The squad has been working hard behind the scenes to prepare for this season, putting in intense training, strategy sessions and team bonding to build unity and strength. Beukes also highlights the importance of support from the university community. “Student and campus support means everything to us, their energy fuels our performance and pushes us to be our best” Despite the natural nerves that come with the start of a new season, the atmosphere in the squad remains positive. Provisional squad (subject to change): Akhona Nkosi, Alianna Tomanga Samanga, Alyssa Heldsinger, Amahle Plaatjies, Amaarah Abrahams, Anathi Mkiva, Asanda Mdlalose, Anja Le Roux, Asiphe Mayaba, Bubhlebethu Abongwe Vilane, Davedine March, Esona Dyanti, Fatouma Yalcoue, Gemma Thomas, Iviwe Jonas, Ivanche Gerritsen, Jada Davids, Jessica Mare, Kaylee Daniels, Lee-Amber Beukes, Lithethaa Maqhude, Manini Ayanda Khiba, Marli George, Mivuyo Pawuli, Nandile Mvandaba, Nutaylah Gasant, Oyena Dubeni, Olwethu Qotyiwe, Qaqamba Ngqabalala, Ronecia Gordon, Saadiqah Corbett, Samukelisiwe Mjweni, Sange Makwezela, Siddeeqa Arries, Sisipho Tshotsha, Yanelisa Plaatjie. Fixtures and log HERE .

Round 3 of the FNB Varsity Shield delivered thrilling rugby action as FNB WSU maintained their perfect start with a stunning victory over the FNB UWC Caracals. FNB Wits dominated FNB UKZN at Howard College Stadium with a relentless attacking display, leaving their opponents reeling. Meanwhile, FNB CPUT impressed in Bellville, claiming a commanding win against FNB SPU, and FNB Madibaz continued their winning streak with a strong 49-11 triumph over Eastern Cape neighbours FNB UFH at Davidson Stadium. Here is our selection for standout players from round 3.   Dewald Gerber (FNB Madibaz) FNB Madibaz lock Dewald Gerber was the standout performer, dominating the lineouts with excellent timing and control. He secured crucial possessions, disrupted opposition throws, and worked tirelessly in defence and attack and scored a try. As a right lock, he fulfilled key duties in scrums, mauls, rucks, and open play with strength and consistency.   Denley Adams (FNB CPUT) Denley Adams was the standout performer for the night, he delivered a disciplined and consistent performance at the base of the scrum. His physicality in contact, relentless work rate, and control off the back ensured FNB CPUT maintained forward momentum throughout the match. His grit in both attack and defence made a tangible impact.   Latica Nela (FNB WITS) The man was absolutely flying high in this match, showcasing incredible speed and some exquisite footwork throughout his entire time on the pitch, leaving defenders scrambling and making a real impact every time he touched the ball.   Yoyisa Mahobe (FNB WSU) Yoyisa Mahobe made a powerful impact off the bench reinforcing FNB WSU’s scrum dominance at a crucial stage of the match. His physical presence at the set piece shifted momentum firmly in the host's favour allowing FNB WSU to control territory and tempo in the second half. His work rate around the park and ability to stabilise the forward pack under pressure stood out in a defining period of the game.

The Stripe Generation ladies embark on a new mission to finally clinch the FNB Varsity Cup Women title as the 2026 campaign commences. The 2025 runners-up aim to be one of the best sides and drop jaws in this tournament. FNB Varsity Cup Women has seen vast growth in recent years and won by two different sides in the past two seasons showcasing competitiveness. Tuks head coach Lizanne Jacobs is confident with her troops ahead of the opening match against the University of Johannesburg UJ. “Our preparations are progressing well. We are doing the best we can within the limited time available, and we are adapting effectively to the challenges. The team spirit continues to grow each day, especially with the arrival of new members who are benefiting from strong leadership,” said Jacobs. “Facing UJ is always demanding, but mentally we are better prepared this year. If the team can push through this upcoming challenge, I believe the momentum will shift in our favour.” FNB Varsity Cup Women has paved a way and prepared a number of players to be ready for a professional set up. Lizanne applauds the tournament for such successes. “It is a significant privilege to be part of such a growing competition, in any capacity. This platform plays an important role in the development of women’s rugby in South Africa, helping to elevate standards and prepare players for the future.” The mission is clear for the Pretoria based side, to stay consistent and in contention until the end. The stalwart Jacobs highlighted where they went wrong last season and how to rectify that. Boasting new recruits to combat this campaign. “Last year, we played in the final against Maties. Unfortunately, a few poor decisions cost us the match, but strong teamwork will carry us through challenging moments this season,” she said. Last year, our success was rooted in mutual trust and a shared commitment to fulfilling our responsibilities. By working together as a unified team, we achieved meaningful progress.” “We have several new faces in the squad, including Abagail de Jager, Lidene Kruger, and Candice de Wet, all of whom are expected to play important roles in the upcoming season.” “Lifting the cup would be an extraordinary moment for all of us. We have invested significant time and effort, both me and the management team, on and off the field to ensure the players have the best possible support to perform at their highest level. Such an achievement would install pride, strengthen their confidence, and reinforce their belief in their abilities. They possess tremendous talent; they simply need to trust in themselves and execute.”   FNB UP-Tuks Provisional Squad: Abigail de Jager, Amukelani Lisenga, Anam Nqweniso, Anele Mgwazela, Angelique Ross-Allen, Aphiwe Masuku, Atlehang Raphadu, Beyonce Muhlari, Candice de Wet, Carla Esterhuysen, Cassidy Jacobs, Clarissa van Eeden, Erin Prins, Georgia-Lee Lewis, Innocentia Kgosana, Itumeleng Malala, Kgotso Letsoalo, Kheselina Rens, Kwanga (Vice-Captain) Majebe, Leoné de Bruyn, Lerato Tshabalala, Lidene Kruger, Luthando Ndlovu, Mamello Mustafa, Mbali (Captain) Ndlovu, Rachel Setoaba, Nandipha Mqalanga, Nomzamo Nimorundsini, Ntokozo (Ox) Xholi, Phetheho Moloi, Precious Mahlangu, Precious Tlaka, Promise Sithole, Raylene Muller, Sadia Moshoka, Sharon Stoaba, Sibulele Ngcana, Sinegugu Mncwabe, Tesmeque Maritz, Thandi Mokatse, Thato Nkadimeng.   By Lehlogonolo Ditshego

As the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup Women campaign draws closer, FNB UFH Women’s Rugby head coach Ntyantyambo Mkhafu has voiced strong confidence in his squad’s preparation and hunger, emphasising their determination to mount a serious challenge and reclaim the title. Preparations have been encouraging, with FNB UFH winning two of their three warm-up fixtures. Their only defeat came against a well-structured EP Queens squad, a match the coach believes offered valuable lessons despite the result. “The preparations have been going well. Even in the loss, the ladies played well. It showed us where we need to improve,” he said. Training sessions have been structured to simulate match conditions, with a strong focus on intensity and tactical discipline. Ntyantyambo is confident that this approach will translate into strong performances on the field. “Our training is game-orientated. The players are super fit and ready to compete.” Heading into the new season, FNB UFH are clear about their objective - reclaiming the trophy they won in 2024 before falling short in the semi-finals in 2025. “We are expecting tough encounters. There will be no walkovers. Teams have gained experience over the past few seasons and improved tactically. But our plan does not change we want to win the Cup.” The coach expects a highly tactical competition, acknowledging that opposition teams have strengthened their technical structures, which will make for intense battles throughout the campaign. Leading the charge will be captain Lilitha Vakalisa, one of the standout performers last season, after earning multiple Player of the Match awards. “She has strong leadership qualities, she is calm, and the players are comfortable around her. She is a great link between the squad and management.” Bonja Sidisiwe, who represented Springboks U/20 and Border U/20, will also play a key role. New faces to watch include Siphokuhle Vakele (former Border U/20), Tumelo Madolo, and Alwaba Maqhude (Border U/16). Strategically, FNB UFH will prioritize collecting maximum points during the round-robin phase to secure a strong position heading into the knockout stages. “Every game counts. If we master our defense, the rest will follow. Defense will be pivotal for us.” FNB UFH open their campaign with an away fixture against FNB Maties, where they aim to set the tone early.   FNB UFH Provisional Squad: Mila Wawa, Aphiwe Nqana, Eyam Ngalo, Mathangana Masi, Siphosethu Gogodo, Thokozani Sikela, Simamkele Jolingana, Olwam Haka, Sindisiwe Mbonja, Inga Qogi, Cwenga Joni, Lilitha Vakalisa, Jobo Sokoyama, Siyolise Mbilase, Litha Tofu, Tumelelo Madolo, Qaqamba Nzondani, Ntomboxolo Tyobosani, Simnikiwe Mlakalaka, Lilitha Ngwenze, Tywaleni Sinekhaya, Siphokuhle Vakele, Alwaba Maqhude.   By: Thembela Tangana

After bowing out in the semifinals last year, the FNB UJ Women’s team will have set their sights on rewriting history and going one step further in this year’s campaign. The side will kick off its campaign on Friday 6 March against provincial rivals, FNB Tuks, at the UJ Stadium at 17:00. Coach Lesego Malebadi says they’ve had to overcome some difficulties in preparing for the tournament but is confident her side will do well. “Our preparations have been challenging, but that hasn’t surprised us,” she said. “We are used to tough circumstances. I’ve been really impressed by the team’s resilience, work ethic, and ability to adapt to any situation.” The Orange Army showed glimpses of their potential in 2025 but occasionally let games slip in crucial moments. The coach says they’ve learned from past lessons and will be looking to rectify those mistakes. “The biggest lesson we took from 2025 was the importance of our reaction and starting well. We want to play from the first whistle and not put ourselves in a position where we’re forced to chase the game." “The plan is to play a fast, running game - high tempo, physical, and relentless. We look to dominate every collision, every phase, and every moment, and drive the game from the first whistle to the last.” The makeup of this year’s team will feature a handful of experienced players who will look to guide the juniors. There are also a couple of players the coach says spectators should keep an eye out for. “Our squad is very young, with a few experienced players guiding the group and a number of our younger players already stepping into senior roles and responsibilities,” coach Sage added. “It’s an exciting blend of youth and leadership. Players to look out for include Hlobisile Mbatha, Thabisile Zungu, Risper Mgwenya, and Alutha Ngcezula - all of whom bring energy, talent, and impact to our game.” FNB UJ realise the importance of the opening game as it will allow them to start their campaign on a high. Provisional squad (subject to change): Vuyiswa Dlamini, Salizwa Tyali, Alutha Ngcezula, Limamkele Duma, Sphilile Sigwaza, Ntandoyenkosi Nhleko, Siyanda Mtsweni, Amber Howell, Thembelihle Mgwenya, Siham Chtioui, Erica Ekeji, Thabisile Zungu, Sindiswa Ngwenya, Boitumelo Motshoane, Hlobisile Mbatha, Nomcebo Mchunu, Thandolwethu Xaba, Lethiwe Buthelezi, Erin Barrett, Babalwa Nkomo, Chinemeren Sorronnadi, Sinoyolo Nqinekile, Asandiswa Nkosi, Nyashadzashe Gonangombe, Clarah Ngceku, Sande Ndandane, Lebogang Mametja, Tsalanang Mokalane, Christelle Ross   By: Avuyile Sawula