Reflecting on last season’s approach, the FNB WSU head coach Thembani Mkokeli made it clear that short-term gains were never the priority, underlining a long-term vision that now begins to take shape as WSU head into the 2026 Varsity Shield campaign with greater clarity, purpose, and ambition. Mkokeli says the bigger-picture approach has laid a stronger foundation, one built on development, cohesion, and a squad now ready to turn long-term vision into tangible results in 2026. “Last year season we could have easily chase win percentage, but we decided not to becoz there was a bigger picture,” said WSU head coach Thembani Mkokeli.   “We were building squad depth, i mean in certain positions we had to find or expose some players to find out if they are good enough to play in this tournament.” With their focus firmly on the bigger picture this season, WSU are determined to take it game by game while steadily building towards a playoff push. “The teams’ expectations this season is to be on the playoffs of the competition,” he said. “Our strategy is to take it game by game and week by week cover all the areas that we need to cover in order for us to reach our standards. Preparations and training have been good there is a good energy and good team spirit to the team and there is a good connection.” Lukhangele Tshayi will captain the side this season. Highly respected by his teammates and equally respectful in return - he brings strong leadership qualities, composure, and a steady presence that makes him a natural choice to lead the team forward. “Our squad at the moment have eight players that represented Border U/21 who the champions in 2025. At this point we some players that earned a provincial contracts for this season with Border Bulldogs,” concluded Mkokeli. Walter Sisulu University will kick-off their campaign on Friday, 13 February at 7pm against recently relegated FNB Wits. Fixtures and tickets HERE .   FNB WSU PROVISIONAL SQUAD Ahlule Zokoza, Amyoli Beja, Aryikwei Mvano Robert Quao, Asenam Mniki, Asisipho Jim, Axola Mtalana, Azasakhe Puwani, Bukho Hani, Bulelani Amyoli Nondlwana, Emihle Mbacwana, Inathinkosi Mhlakaza, Isiphe Mbini, Khanyiso Mncono, Khonaye Mbakaza, Liyabona Kasibe, Liyema Ndlazi, Lisakhanya Yawa, Lizole Hebe, Lukhangele Tshayi, Luvo Zindela, Luzuko Fumba, Lwandile Majozi, Mangaliso Zixesha, Mihlali Nohoyeka, Ntandazo Mboniswa, Owen Posholi, Papama Mda, Paseka Mokoena, Qhayiya Makalima, Sandisiwe Mkwayimba, Sinentlahla Kesa, Sinethemba Buhlungu, Siyamtemba Ncapayi, Sipho Hobosch, Sosulwe Mqonci, Thembela Folo, Yoyisa Mahobe.

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

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

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

With the FNB Varsity Shield on the horizon, the FNB CPUT team enters the new campaign focused, united and ambitious. Built on stability in leadership and a clear sense of purpose, the squad is determined to take the next step after losing in last seasons semi-final to eventual tournament winners FNB Emeris. Head coach Alastair Theys has overseen a pre-season built on purpose and precision. “Preparation has centred on conditioning, skill execution under pressure and building cohesion across the squad”, said Theys. “The objective has been simple but uncompromising, to develop a resilient, hardworking team capable of sustaining intensity for the full 80 minutes while making accurate decisions in key moments. “Our aim is to be highly competitive every week and to ensure CPUT is respected as a disciplined, well-prepared side. Success is measured not only by results, but by consistent performances, visible player growth, and placing the team firmly in contention as the campaign progresses. Continuity within the coaching staff remains a major strength, with assistant coaches Jongi Nokwe and Ramone Samuels, along with team manager Bongani Ntshobodwana, remain in place. Their presence ensures stability and a clear rugby identity, while Havillan Abrahams joins as the new Strength and Conditioning coach." On-field strength for FNB CPUT lies in its leadership and spine, with Emihle Benya and Dwayne Atkins returning alongside emerging talents Lazola Makaula, Rueben Noble and Yibanathi Phoncana. Tactically, CPUT will continue to pride itself on work rate and smart rugby. The focus remains on applying pressure through strong set-piece fundamentals and organised defensive systems, while capitalising clinically when opportunities arise, discipline and accuracy are non-negotiables. Captaining the team for the third season, Kieran Naidoo continues to set the standard through consistency, work ethic and leadership. The FNB Varsity Shield campaign brings added excitement with the introduction of new power-play rules after tries, adding an unpredictable edge to matches against quality opposition. PROVISIONAL SQUAD: Kieran Naidoo; Emihle Benya; Lathitha Ratsibe; Samukelisiwe Madonsela; Yibanathi Daki; Yibanathi Phoncana; Chris Phillips; Clyde Frieslaar; Darren Theunissen; Denley Adams; Dwayne Atkins; Eldo Draghoender; Jacquin Jacobus; Jade Baaitjies; Jayson January; Keran Valentyn; Kyle Ahrendse; Lazola Makhaula; Leigh-Jay Latief; Lesedi Sweetman; Lindisipho Kula; Mbuso Maseko; Noah Pekeur; Nqaba Nkonyeni; Ntsako Mhlanga; Philasande Ngcobo; Preveen Padayachiey; Rodan Olifant; Ronaldo Lakay; Rory Hess; Ruaan Mabasa; Simphiwe Thabede; Siphesihle Zwane; Tristan Porthen; Ukho Jaji, Reuben Noble, Ashton Maloy, Abongile Golela, Enkosi Joxo. Tickets and fixtures HERE .   By: Mihlali Maraule

The 2026 FNB Varsity Shield kicks off this week, ushering in another thrilling season of high-intensity, action-packed rugby across stadiums nationwide. FNB SPU, affectionately known as the Gemmies, enter their second year in the competition during the 15th edition of the tournament. Buoyed by last season’s spirited performances they have firmly set their sights on a semi-final berth after narrowly missing out in 2025. Entering the 2025 campaign, SPU had few benchmarks and were still adjusting to the pace of Varsity Shield rugby. That baptism by fire, however, proved invaluable. Facing more established sides, the Gemmies quickly showed they wouldn’t be intimidated. Though several games ended in narrow heartbreaks, the season highlighted steady growth and resilience. “Going into last season we didn’t really know what to expect,” said Jan Potgieter, the captain reflected. “But that experience has shaped the way we think this year. Every player understands the level now and knows exactly what we’re heading into.” That clarity has been a defining feature of SPU’s preparation this time around. While effort and intent were never in question in 2025, consistency across the full 80 minutes often proved elusive a reality the squad has confronted head-on. “We were only performing in certain stages of games,” the captain admitted. “We weren’t an 80-minute team. That’s been a big focus this year pairing a full-game performance with high physical presence and a high-tempo approach.” Managing that belief, however, requires balance a responsibility shared across the leadership group rather than resting on one individual. Depth within the squad has further supported that approach. The arrival of new players has injected hunger and intensity into the environment, raising standards across the board. “When new guys come in hungry for opportunity, it pushes the older players to show why they’re here,” he said. “The internal competition is tough, but that’s a positive. It creates a strong blend between new players and experienced campaigners. “Not everything is going to go your way on the day,” said the captain. “You must adapt and find solutions. We’ve tried to build that into our training putting ourselves in tricky situations and learning how to respond.”   FNB SPU Provisional Squad: Stèphan du Toit, Jaiden Faviers, John Southward, Kamogelo Leshupi, Emile Noble, Jan Potgieter (C), Liam Harmse, Raqeeb Kapery, Ntokozo Ndwalane, Kwandokuhle Dlamini, Tumelo Papane, Lihlumelo Gunguta, Jacobus Johannes Fourie, Kabelo Keagile, Gareth Maree, Tyron China, Luke Davids, Dwayne Lubbe, Divine Ambrose, Ashwen Rademeyer, Calvin Paulsen, Cameron Primo, Fuzuledean Saim, Liyabona Maplanga, Michael Prinsloo, Raees Sahabodien, Keletso Seoposengwe, Kwanda Mhlongo, Enzo Machaba, Aiden Holtzhausen, Tadean Barkley, Mvelo Ndwalane, Sthabiso Dube, Tshifhiwa Jnr Mudau, Jade Peterson, Joshua Vomberg, Malwande Hlophe, Chadwin Sellidon, DeAndre Mouwers, Tshiamo Tsiane, Malachi Mafaro.   By: Bradford Petersen

The FNB NWU Eagles head into the 2026 FNB Varsity Cup campaign with renewed belief and a more experienced squad, determined to improve on last season’s fifth-place finish aiming to reach the playoffs and be in contention to lift the trophy they last won in 2023. Head Coach Burger van der Westhuizen, who has coached the team for the past four years, says they have been preparing for this season from last year. “We have been preparing for the Varsity Cup since the end of October and beginning of November 2025”, said van der Westhuizen. The Eagles were crowned FNB Varsity Cup champions in 2023, but last season proved frustrating as they narrowly missed out on the semi-finals. “Last season was disappointing. We lost games that we could’ve won and should’ve won. We were an inexperienced team. We are more experienced this year,” he said. Westhuizen believes the mood in the camp is positive, driven by a strong team culture. “It is a positive vibe that we have going into the competition. Our slogan is ‘believe’; we believe in what we do, we believe in God, we believe in our families, and we believe in the NWU, the Eagles and our community,” he adds. The squad includes several experienced players alongside new faces who are eager to make an impact. “We have a lot of experienced guys on the team and a couple of new guys, and we are very excited to see what they are going to do,” said Westhuizen. Stephen Krugel will lead the side as captain, a decision the coach is confident in. “I feel like our captain is a powerful leader. When we select players, most importantly we pick players that believe in our culture.” The FNB Varsity Cup runs from 16 February to 13 April, with the Eagles kicking off their campaign away against FNB CUT in the Free State on 16 February 2026.   NWU Provisional Squad Zihan Bensch, Alethwa Mbongeni Buthelezi, Jamiane Dampies, Angelo Daniels, Aiden De Villiers, Bernardo Diedericks, Njabulo Dladla, Luyolo Doyi, Johan Gustave Du Bois, Schalk Duplessis, Jacobus Du Toit, Matthew Fortuin, Richardo Fourie, Logan Janeke, Stephen Krugel, Johan Leonard, Jordan McLoughlin, Rouwan Mitchell, Michael Mostert, Jason Oosthuizen, Gary Otto, Leejay Petersen, Lodewyk Prins, Therlow Prins, Sean Roulston, Zack Serfontein, Bradley Stanfliet, Lechance Tchokonte-nana, Tshepo Tlaka, Rianiel Andrew, Luan Jacobus, Schalk Pieter Van Schalkwyk, Ruan Van Willing, Tian Van Zyl, Hanro Venter, Jacques Vos, Sanele Zungu Tickets and fixtures HERE .   By: Sibusiso Edward Moledi

As the 2026 FNB Varsity Shield season gets underway we turn our attention to the players poised to make a serious impact this year. Building on performances that hinted at their potential, these are the individuals we believe are ready to step up and elevate their games by playing a decisive role in their teams. Leachim Adams (FNB UWC): Voted as the FNB Back That Rocks last year Leachim Adams will once more be causing chaos on attack as he slices through the defence at will. The winger scored some of the best individual tries for the Caracals so expect him to bring the heat once more. Sean Van Zijl (FNB Madibaz) 4 tries in his first 4 games on debut for FNB Madibaz says it all. The Western Province U19 loose-forward and Paarl Gymnasium alumnus was brilliant for Madibaz last season and was duly nominated for Suzuki Rookie of the Year for his outstanding performances. If they are to be in contention to make the final once again and be promoted then he will no doubt play a key role. Lindani Dweba  (FNB Wits) The Blues fullback from Hudson Park High School played Craven Week and went on to represent the Lions u20 side before joining FNB Wits and making a big impact in the side. Keep an eye on him to organise the defence and put the finishing touch on Wits tries if they are to bounce back from relegation. Jaiden Faviers (FNB SPU): The 2025 Suzuki Rookie of the Year had a superb season for the Gemmies scoring several crucial last moment tries that secured victory for the Kimberley side notably a clutch break in their debut match to score the winner with just a few minutes left on the clock. With experience now on his side look for the FNB SPU centre to be even more dangerous this year. Bulumko Mfundisi (FNB UFH): The powerful winger scored several tries for the Blues most notably a try of the season contender when he skinned several UWC defenders. He brings pace and experience to the Fort Hare backline so expect him to feature heavily if they are to make a run for the title they last won in 2022. Siso France (FNB UKZN): The former Kearsney College boy had such a big impact for the Impi that he was nominated for Suzuki Rookie of the Year in his debut season. Scored all the FNB UKZN points in their match against Madibaz last year. With more experience and maturity you can expect him to have even impact in 2026. Dwayne Atkins (FNB CPUT): The Tekkies flyer makes a return to the squad after missing the previous year, but if his previous seasons are anything to go by then expect some sensational tries from the Worcester poster boy! The stage is set for a compelling 2026 campaign and we can't wait to see which players seize their opportunity and stamp their authority on the tournament. Make sure you’re at the games to witness who will emerge as this season’s standout stars. Fixtures and Tickets: HERE

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.