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The Junior Springboks have named a training squad for the forthcoming U20 International Series with Chili, Fiji and Georgia, with regulars such as Luan Giliomee, Christian Vorster, Jordan Steenkamp, and Pieter van der Merwe back in the group after they missed the recent U20 Rugby Championship due to injury.

The first batch of the squad will assemble on Monday, 18 May at their Stellenbosch Academy of Sports base, while players who carried a heavy workload in Gqeberha recently given an extra week of rest.

The squad feature players who attended the previous two Junior Bok training camps, the short tour to Georgia and the U20 Rugby Championship, won by South Africa, while Quintin Potgieter (loose forward) is a new addition.

Junior Bok head coach Kevin Foote said the selected group reflects their dual focus on immediate performance and long-term player development, as the national U20s continue to build depth and manage player workloads ahead of the 2026 Junior World Championship.

Looking ahead to the fixtures, Foote said the coaching staff would use the opportunity to rotate the squad and assess depth in key positions.

“We are looking to freshen up the squad, give players opportunities in certain positions and allow them to put their hands up for Junior World Championship selection,” said Foote. “It is an important balance between managing the group in the present and continuing to build for the future.”

The SA U20 coach added that the squad has been selected with both the immediate and longer term in mind, with the Junior Boks intent on maintaining their growth and cohesion, remaining competitive, and broadening the player base with both this year’s JWC and the 2027 cycle in mind.

“This tournament will provide valuable game time for players who may not have featured regularly during the recent U20 Rugby Championship, while also creating opportunities for younger squad members to continue their development within the Junior Bok environment,” said Foote.

Furthermore, the three-match series also provides an opportunity to manage the workload of several established players, while integrating the return of several others who did not play a part in the U20 Rugby Championship because of injury or their involvement in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship.

Regular captain Riley Norton (lock) and Zekhethelo Siyaya (utility back), who were recently included in the Springbok alignment camp squad, are unavailable for the first two matches. Midfielder Markus Muller, who recently made his DHL Stormers debut, and Vodacom Bulls wing Cheswill Jooste were not considered due to injuries.

The match days will be hosted at schools in and around Cape Town, with final fixtures to be confirmed in due course. The series will be broadcast live on the SA Rugby YouTube channel.

Junior Bok squad to assemble in Stellenbosch on 18 May:

Forwards: Jordan Jooste (DHL Stormers), Kai Pratt (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Mahle Sithole (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), Altus Rabe (DHL Stormers), Luan van der Berg (Vodacom Bulls), Bongani Dlamini (Vodacom Bulls), Jaythen Orange (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), JD Hattingh (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), Thomas Beling (Vodacom Bulls), Risima Khosa (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), Quintin Potgieter (DHL Stormers), Vuyo Gwiji (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), Gert Kemp (DHL Stormers).

Backs: Jayden Brits (DHL Stormers), Jandrian Goosen (Vodacom Bulls), Vusi Moyo (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Luan Giliomee (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Jordan Steenkamp (DHL Stormers), Lindsey Jansen (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Pieter van der Merwe (Vodacom Bulls), Olunje Mehlomakulu (DHL Stormers), Christian Vorster (Vodacom Bulls), Jade Muller (CUT), Junaide Stuart (Vodacom Bulls), Akahluwa Boqwana (Vodacom Bulls), Alzeadon Felix (Fidelity Securedrive Lions).

Squad members to assemble in Stellenbosch on 25 May:

Forwards: Oliver Reid (DHL Stormers), Rambo Kubheka (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Liam van Wyk (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Danie Kruger (DHL Stormers), Heinrich Theron (Vodacom Bulls), Riley Norton (DHL Stormers), Kebotile Maake (Vodacom Bulls), Luke Cannon (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), Wasi Vyambwera (Hollywoodbets Sharks).

Backs: Hendré Schoeman (Vodacom Bulls), Yaqeen Ahmed (DHL Stormers), Khuthadzo Rasivhaga (Hollywoodbets Sharks), Ethan Adams (Fidelity Securedrive Lions), Samuel Badenhorst (DHL Stormers), Jack Benade (DHL Stormers), Zekhethelo Siyaya (Hollywoodbets Sharks).

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

Eight teams turned in impressive performances on Friday, day two of the Aitken Cup, to book their places in the quarterfinals at St Stithians College.

After a glut of goals on Thursday, the teams returned to action on Friday knowing exactly what they needed to do to progress to the knockout stage.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools

In Pool A, the defending champion, Jeppe High School for Boys, chasing a third straight title, was on cruise control. They progressed to the next round without conceding a goal.

In their opening match, they thumped Monument 11-0 and followed up that emphatic victory with a 3-0 win against Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge and an 8-0 shellacking of Northcliff.

The boys from Kensington played enterprising hockey, linked up with each other brilliantly, and at times made the game look extremely easy.

They’ll take on Parktown Boys’ High in the last eight, a side they beat in the pre-season, and the team they beat in the 2024 final.

Joining them from Pool A is Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge, who secured second place after beating Monument 5-0 and Northcliff 9-0.

The hosts, St Stithians College, progressed from Pool B along with St Benedict’s College.

Saints made a strong start to their campaign and outplayed Bennies 4-0 on day one. Their smooth progress was, however, halted by Hoërskool Noordheuwel, who held them to a 1-1 draw in their second outing.

That meant they had to beat Linden to ensure they advanced. Playing in front of their home crowd, they delivered a dominant performance, controlling every facet of the game. They took their chances and powered their way to a 7-0 victory.

After a slow start, St Benedict’s bounced back in style, firstly beating Linden 4-0 in the morning before an Alex Johnston hat-trick spurred coach Siya Lusiba’s side to a 3-1 win over Noordheuwel.

St David’s Marist Inanda and Parktown Boys’ High took the top two spots in Pool C.

When they met, St David’s won 3-1 to complete their group assignments with a flawless record.

Parktown handled business against Randpark High and Redhill to reach the quarterfinals.

St John’s College and Helpmekaar Kollege completed the quarterfinals’ line-up.

After playing to a pulsating 2-2 draw on Thursday, they finished with the same number of points, but St John’s topped the group thanks to their superior goal difference, which came from a 7-0 victory over Beaulieu College and a 6-0 win against HeronBridge.

St John’s takes on Bennies in the last eight, while Helpies tackle Saints.

RESULTS

DAY 1

Thursday, 14 May

Pool A

Northcliff 9-0 Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge
Jeppe 11-0 Monument

Pool B

Noordheuwel 4-1 Linden
St Stithians College 4-0 St Benedict’s College

Pool C

Randpark High 1-1 Redhill
St David’s 3-1 Parktown Boys’ High

Pool D

HeronBridge 3-2 Beaulieu
St John’s 2-2 Helpmekaar

Friday, 15 May

DAY 2

Pool A

Jeppe 3-0 Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge
Monument 3-2 Northcliff
Jeppe 8-0 Northcliff
Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge 3-0 Monument

Pool B

St Stithians 1-1 Noordheuwel
St Benedict’s College 4-0 Linden
St Stithians 7-0 Linden
St Benedict’s 3-1 Noordheuwel

Pool C

St David’s 3-0 Randpark High
Parktown Boys’ High 4-0 Redhill
St David’s 6-0 Redhill
Parktown 4-2 Randpark High

Pool D

St John’s College 7-0 Beaulieu
Helpmekaar 6-0 HeronBridge
St John’s College 6-0 HeronBridge
Helpmekaar 3-0 Beaulieu

FIXTURES 

Quarterfinals 

Saints Red Astro

07:30 – Jeppe vs Parktown
09:00 – St John’s College vs St Benedict’s College
10:30 – St Stithians College vs Helpmekaar
12:00 – St David’s vs Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge

Playoffs 

Saints Blue Astro

07:30 – Monument vs Redhill
09:00 – Beaulieu vs Linden
10:30 – Noordheuwel vs HeronBridge
12:00 – Randpark vs Northcliff

Die Hoërskool Middelburg sal Saterdag wanneer hy op sy tuisveld teen die Hoërskool Rustenburg in die Virseker Noordvaal Cup se Beker-afdeling wil voortbou op sy spelpeil die afgelope paar weke.

Volg al die aksie regstreeks op SuperSport Schools (www.supersportschools.com).

Die Middies se laaste twee vertonings in sy seges oor Menlopark (26-25) en HTS Middelburg (26-10) was sonder twyfel die span se beste tot dusver die seisoen.

Na die span se eerste nege wedstryde die seisoen is daar ‘n lang Virseker Noordvaal Cup in die Beker-afdeling vir die skool se eerstespan voorspel.

Die Middies se sege oor die Parkies in die eerste ronde, beteken dat hulle nou een van slegs drie onoorwonne spanne oor na twee rondes in die kompetisie is. Die oorwinning oor HTS Middelburg se Rooi Bulle was in ‘n King Price Derby Series-kragmeting.

Daarteen is die Rusties op soek na sy eerste sege in vanjaar se reeks. Hulle het in die eerste twee rondes teen onderskeidelik teen Waterkloof (10-31) en EG Jansen (28-32) die knie gebuig.

Die span wat deur Naas Olivier gebrei word sou waarskynlik ‘n makliker uitdaging wou hê as om op soek na ‘n eerste sege in Middelburg te wees.

Die Rusties se flank Pieta Niemand sal voorlangs die vuur moet verskaf, terwyl die senterpaar, Aydan Willemse en Zak Swanepoel, agterlangs die pot aan die kook sal moet hou.

Die Middies se agtsteman, Menza Siyaya, behoort ‘n sleutelrol in sy span se aanslag te speel. In die agterhoede sal die losskakel, Buhle Mphahlaza, moeilik hok geslaan kan word.

Op Bere-park in Pretoria sal die Hoërskool Garsfontein se hoofafrigter, Sylvester Booysen, sy span vooraf gewaarsku het om nie te oorgerus te wees oor hul afspraak met Noordheuwel se Blues nie.

Die kragmeting skop om 13:20 af.

Die Bere het vroeër vanjaar vir Noordheuwel met 41-3 in Krugersdorp verniel. Boonop het Garsfontein sy enige nederlaag in verlede jaar se Noordvaal-reeks teen die einste Blues (22-28) op die lyf geloop.

Voeg daarby die feit dat sy sterke derduiwel van ‘n haker, Justin Blom, ‘n skoueroperasie ondergaan het. Hy sal nie weer vanjaar vir die Bere in aksie wees nie. Booysen het wel die keuse gehad om Stefan “Kwagga” van der Vyver van die kant van die skrum na haker te skuif, maar Blom se fisieke verteenwoordigheid sal sonder twyfel ‘n reuse leemte laat.

Van der Vyver, wat eintlik ‘n haker is, het hom vanjaar as die voorste oopkantflank in Pretoria gevestig.

Die aandag is gewoonlik op die Bere se agterste driehoek bestaande uit Drewyn Baron, Yuvrah George en Neil de Kock. Die span se skrumskakel, Dean Wilbers, het egter nog nie die lof vanjaar gekry, wat hy verdien nie.

Hy beskik oor ‘n uitmuntende aangee na albei kante. Sy diens aan die losskakel, Ruan Fluks, speel ‘n groot rol in die spasie waarin die Bere se agterkwarte in baljaar.

Die Nories sal ook sonder Llewellyn Lourens teen die Bere wees. Hy het verlede week teen Monument op agtsteman diens gedoen. Sy broer en kaptein van die Blues, Kean, behoort egter saam met Armand van Eck (agtsteman) die Bere voorlangs besig te hou. Die loskopstut, Ruben Botes, kan ook ‘n doring in die tuisspan se vlees wees.

Die Lourens-boeties se pa, Stefan “Botter” Lourens, is natuurlik Noordheuwel se breier.

Die spanne is: 

Hoërskool Middelburg t. Hoërskool Rustenburg om  in Middelburg: 

Hoërskool Middelburg: 15 Janré Oosthuizen, 14 Kgontse Masilela, 13 Siboniso Mahlangu, 12 Blake Faber, 11 Kgotso Peta, 10 Buhle Mphahlaza, 9 Enio Manhica, 8 Menzi Siyaya, 7 Siyabonga Mokgoatjana, 6 Aiden Nel, 5 Khensani Buthelezi, 4 Lihan de Vaal, 3 Dewald du Toit, 2 Ryan Blake, 1 Melchior van Niekerk.

Hoërskool Rustenburg: 15 Dian Huisamen, 14 Lerato Matlaisane, 13 Zak Swanepoel, 12 Aydan Willemse, 11 Junaid Stevens, 10 Ricardo Enos, 9 Shayloh Cox, 8 Ruben van Heerden, 7 Pieta Niemand, 6 MJ Otto, 5 Thian Labuschagne, 4 Evan van Heerden, 3 Nathan Volschenk, 2 Dandrè Graham, 1 Xander Stickling.

Garsfontein t. Noordheuwel om 13:20 op Bere-park in Pretoria: 

Garsfontein: 15 Drewyn Baron, 14 Yuvrah George, 13 Levi Jordaan, 12 Keagan Knighton, 11 Neil de Kock, 10 Ruan Fluks, 9 Dean Wilbers, 8 Lourenz de Jager (kaptein), 7 Derik Potgieter, 6 JP Meintjes, 5 SW Potgieter, 4 JJ Fourie, 3 Ruben Lombard, 2 Stefan van der Vyver, 1 André van Wyk.

Noordheuwel: 15 Chrisandro Flemmer, 14 Prince Agu, 13 Edwill October, 12 Tristan Helmund, 11 Wilcu Roos, 10 Heinrich Smith, 9 SW de Waal, 8 Armand van Eck, 7 Kean Lourens (kaptein), 6 JB Blaunt, 5 Robert Hurn, 4 Jarod Coetzer, 3 Steph Botha, 2 Miguel Elliot, 1 Ruben Botes.

Skeidsregter: Niel Bosman.

Die laaste keer wat Die Hoërskool Menlopark daarin kon slaag om vir Waterkloof om te dop was in 2019 in die Virsekerbeker.

Daardie jaar het die Parkies voortgegaan om vir die eerste keer as kampioen van die Noordvaal-reeks gekroon te word. Baie water het sedertdien in die see geloop. Virseker het intussen al onttrek as borg en is ook alweer terug as titelborg van die gesogte reeks.

Die Parkies was oortuigend met 55-21 destyds baas.

Volg al die aksie regstreeks op SuperSport Schools (www.supersportschools.com).

Die twee spanne ken mekaar nou alte goed. Hulle het mekaar vanjaar vir die derde agtereenvolgende jaar in die eindstryd van die NWU Sport-reeks ontmoet. Waterkloof was in 2024 (23-8) en 2026 (33-28) baas, terwyl die twee spanne die louere met 23-elk verlede jaar gedeel het.

As daar verder in die statistieke gedelf word, is daar so stukkie slegte nuus vir Menlopark. Waterkloof was elke keer die afgelope drie jaar sterker en beter daartoe af in die Virseker Noordvaal Cup se kragmeting tussen dié twee spanne. Die Klofies het in 2024 ‘n oortuigende sege van 51-33 behaal, terwyl hy in 2025 met 27-19 as oorwinnaars van die veld gestap het.

Maar genoeg van die geskiedenis.

Daar is ‘n hele paar tweestryde waarna uitgesien kan word. Waterkloof se gevaarman is die buitesenter, Meyer Pretorius. Sy tweestryd met Danie Botma kan vir vele hoogtepunte sorg. Botma is nog in graad 11, maar beskik oor hope vaart en sal sonder twyfel na die uitdaging teen Pretorius uitsien.

Gepraat van vaart. Die Blou Tornado se heelagter, Alexander Griesel, is ook ‘n man wat reeds vir homself naam op die atletiekbaan gemaak het. Griesel het vanjaar al ‘n hele paar blink vertonings vir die Klofies opgedis.

Die stryd tussen die twee losskakels, Liam Schutte (Waterkloof) en Willie Pieterse (Menlopark), behoort ook vir heelwat opwinding te sorg. Schutte het in sy span se twee wedstryde tot dusver 19 punte opgestapel wat twee drieë insluit, terwyl Pieterse met 20 punte na twee wedstryde spog. Sy totaal sluit ook twee drieë in.

Voorlangs kan die Klofies se Hugo Dercksen (flank) en Stiaan Theron (haker) die tuisspan besig hou.

Helpmekaar Kollege sal op sy tuisveld om 12:30 in Johannesburg nie te oorgerus op die veld teen EG Jansen van Boksburg kan draf nie.

Helpies het nou wel verlede jaar se kragmeting teen die Boksburgers in dié reeks met 35-15 gewen, maar EG was al ‘n hele paar keer ‘n piesangskil vir die span van die Goudstad.

Helpies is boonop op soek na sy eerste sege in vanjaar se reeks. Die span het sy rieme tot dusver in Pretoria teen Garsfontein (24-49) en Menlopark (31-38) in die Virseker Noord Cup se Beker-afdeling styfgeloop. Die feit dat hulle in die twee wedstryde drie bonuspunte kon insamel is die enigste feit wat hul van die onderste plek van die puntelys hou.

Die Helpies se invloedryke binnesenter, Ethan Lourens, het wel sy terugkeer teen die Parkies gemaak. Hy sal op sy stukke teen die Jansies moet wees, indien sy span op die wenpad wil kom. Sy tweelingbroer, Shaye, wat gewoonlik die oond skoon maak, draf steeds op losskakel uit.

Albei is in die Goue Leeus se voorlopige span van die Cravenweek in Gqeberha ingesluit. Hulle was reeds verlede jaar staatmakers vir dié span.

Helpies se ander gevaarmanne is die heelagter, Xander van Niekerk, asook die flank Llewellyn Vermaak.

Die Jansies se planmaker is die losskakel, Juan van Aswegen. Hy sal agterlangs moet seker maak dat sy span genoeg geleenthede kry om punte aan te teken.

Voorlangs kan die kaptein en flank, Jaco Engelbrecht, en die slot Ewan Pretorius dorings in Helpies se vlees wees.

Die spanne is: 

Die Hoërskool Menlopark t. Waterkloof om 12:30 in Pretoria: 

Menlopark: 15 Jody Abrahams, 14 Lucian Read, 13 Danie Botma, 12 Dylan Stumke, 11 Juan Joubert, 10 Willie Pieterse, 9 Eben Botma, 8 Jannes Eksteen, 7 Tiaan Boshoff, 6 Dewald van Wyk, 5 Dawid van den Heever, 4 Lyndon Fourie, 3 Reando Fourie, 2 Dian de Bruin, 1 Justin Toerien.

Waterkloof: 15 Alexander Griesel, 14 Mieder Erasmus, 13 Meyer Pretorius, 12 Ruben Louwrens, 11 Jacques Jansen van Rensburg, 10 Liam Schutte, 9 Marcel Tsiakos, 8 Almero Gerritsen, 7 Stefan Pieters, 6 Hugo Dercksen, 5 Marius Venter, 4 JJ Brits, 3 Reinhard Duvenhage, 2 Stiaan Theron, 1 Wian Hetzel.

Skeidsregter: Ansius Vermeulen.

Helpmekaar Kollege t. Dr. EG Jansen om 12:30 in Johannesburg: 

Helpmekaar: 15 Xander van Niekerk, 14 Jayden Brown, 13 Ruben Coetzee, 12 Ethan Lourens, 11 Zuan Krige, 10 Shaye Lourens, 9 John van Druten, 8 Ruann Bester, 7 Diandro Botha, 6 Llewelyn Vermaak, 5 Dewald du Preez, 4 Ruben Pieterse, 3 Karlo Steenkamp, 2 Jeandré van der Merwe, 1 Daylan Ferreira.

EG Jansen: 15 JJ van Rensburg, 14 Liam Hector, 13 Duwayne Zeekoei, 12 Dian Botha, 11 Conor Louw, 10 Juan van Aswegen, 9 Joseph Diesel, 8 Jaco Engelbrecht (kaptein), 7 Christopher van Rooyen, 6 Juan Harris, 5 Ivan Botha, 4 Ewan Pretorius, 3 Elshaan Duminy, 2 JC du Toit, 1 Marlo van der Merwe.

Skeidsregter: Richard Schwulst.

Expect a battle till the end.

That is on the cards in the King Price Derby Series clash between Monument of Krugersdorp and Jeppe High School for Boys from Johannesburg on the former’s home field, the Ras van Rooyen.

Catch all the action live on SuperSport Schools (www.supersportschools.com) or on DStv Channel 216.

The match kicks off at 15:30.

The two powerhouses of schoolboy rugby in the Golden Lions region have not played each other much since they were founded in 1921 (Monument) and 1890 (Jeppe), but their interschools have become a clash of titans.

The two schools met each other on the rugby field for the first time in 2014. Saturday’s encounter will be only their sixth, as they began playing each other annually in 2022.

Monnas’ Wit Bulle won comfortably by 70-24 last year on the Collard Field. This was an important victory for the Wit Bulle, as they had suffered three devastating defeats before this win. It was former Springbok Jannie du Plessis‘ first season as head coach of the team, and it was a true bubbling cauldron he stepped into.

Jeppe is in need of a turnaround performance after suffering a 10-78 defeat against the Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool of Pretoria last week. It is their second biggest defeat against Affies ever. This was after suffering a 14-54 defeat against Grey College during the final day of the Absa Wildeklawer tournament.

Their coach, Drickus Venter, won’t be happy with the last two performances, but Jeppe has been barking with the big dogs the last couple of seasons. Jeppe is known as a side that never gives up, and it is expected that they will make Monnas work hard for a victory on Saturday.

The Wit Bulle will take the field as favourites after being on the winning side in their last seven matches. Their last victory came against neighbours, Noordheuwel (41-15), in the Virseker Noordvaal Cup.

Monnas’ halfback pairing of Morné Noble and Jayden Viljoen is probably the best halfback combination in the country at this moment. Noble represented the South African Schools’ side in 2025 but is too old to play for the Golden Lions at this year’s Craven Week.

Viljoen has been sensational with his long boot and, without surprise, made the Golden Lions’ team for the Craven Week later this year in Gqeberha. It is interesting that the Wit Bulle’s replacement flyhalf, Cameron Kourie, is the leading point scorer in the Virseker Noordvaal Cup so far this season.

Monnas have four representatives in the Craven Week side. Besides Viljoen the other three are Ruan Genis (wing), Siya Ncube (flanker) and Blessing Monareng (centre).

Jeppe have six players in the Lions’ selected team. They are Ghlodi Tshumpanga (lock), Mihle Dyakala (flanker), Pano Letsie (centre), Lathabo Mashoa (wing), Ndzalama Mbalati (fullback) and Kasi Nyoka (prop).

The teams: 

Monument: 15 Logan Langeveldt, 14 Migael Coetzee, 13 Blessing Monareng, 12 Juandré Ehlers, 11 Ruan Genis, 10 Jaydon Viljoen, 9 Morné Noble, 8 Ryno van der Westhuizen (captain), 7 Roche Botha, 6 Siya Ncube, 5 Hanco van Geelen, 4 Matthew van Deventer, 3 Ben van Wyk, 2 Jaden Nel, 1 Dexter Chiwanga.

Jeppe High School for Boys: 15 Dalitso Milanzi, 14 Ndimphiwe Mjiji, 13 Joel Akilo, 12 Phano Letsie, 11 Lethabo Mashao, 10 Luthando Marangxa, 9 Luxon Zwane, 8 Mihle Dyakala, 7 Ross Schuurman, 6 Kuhle Shitlangu, 5 Glodi Tshipamba, 4 Hayden Venter, 3 Mervedi Ndomba, 2 Mehlatse Memeza, 1 Joshua Hamman.

Referee: Christo Erasmus.
Kick-Off: 15:30

It’s now more than ten years since the Wit Bulle of the Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool of Pretoria last beat Grey College of Bloemfontein.

The two First XVs will face each other on Saturday at 14:00 in a King Price Derby Series clash on the rugby field for the 48th time since 1923.

Follow all the action live on SuperSport Schools (www.supersportschools.com).

Both schools have made a huge contribution to the success of South African rugby. Affies’ old boys include Fourie du Preez, Wynand Olivier, Pierre Spies, and RG Snyman.

Grey has produced a long list of Springboks, among them Frans Steyn, Bismarck du Plessis, Ruben Kruger, Naka Drotské, Andre-Hugo Venter, Jan Serfontein, and Johan Goosen.

The Wit Bulle’s last victory over Grey in 2015 (29-18) was achieved in Bloemfontein, with centre Louritz van der Schyff leading the charge. Other players from that year’s Affies’ team who have carved out sports’ careers for themselves after school include Ruben van Heerden (Stormers), Ruan de Swardt (Proteas cricket), and Schalk Erasmus (Toyota Verblitz).

Affies thoroughly thrashed Jeppe High School for Boys 78-10 last week. The Wit Bulle have clearly found their feet in the 2026 season.

The bad news for supporters of the team from the Jacaranda City is that Grey College has also shifted into a higher gear since suffering three consecutive defeats earlier in the season. The team from the City of Roses defeated Noordheuwel (34-12) and Jeppe (54-14) during the Absa Wildeklawer tournament, and beat Paarl Boys’ High 31-21 last week.

The Wit Bulle also already measured their strength against Boishaai this year. They beat the Paarl side 40-37, thanks to a try in the dying moments by replacement centre Estian Marx.

If Affies wants to secure a victory, they will need to keep Grey’s loose trio of Niel du Randt, Henru Erasmus, and Xander de Beer in check. Moreover, the Bloemfontein team’s locks, Alexi Tyropolis (captain) and Prestan Bennett, have also packed down on the side of the scrum for the First XV.

This means that Grey has more than enough stamina in its engine room up front.

Affies’ captain and lock, Martin van Niekerk, has had an excellent season so far this year in the loose and also in the lineouts. His lock partner, Reubenne Vlok, also enjoys getting stuck into the thick of things up front.

The Wit Bulle have some of the most dangerous wings in South African schools’ rugby this year. The team’s fullback, Joshua Gouws, also served on the wing earlier this year, while Dandré Brink and Dehan Botha possess plenty of power and pace.

Affies’ coaches, Ruan Jacobs and Jaco Koch, have also decided to select Rico du Plessis at outside centre for the clash. When given the opportunity this year, Du Plessis has done a fine job of unlocking Gouws, Brink, and Botha on the attack.

The teams:

Affies: 15 Joshua Gouws, 14 Dandré Brink, 13 Rico du Plessis, 12 Juan Ferreira, 11 Dehan Botha, 10 Reuben Smith, 9 Fourie Roberts, 8 Keegan Fourie, 7 Caleb Pretorius, 6 Lohan Bitzer, 5 Reubenne Vlok, 4 Martin van Niekerk (captain), 3 Hannes Nagel, 2 Carl Els, 1 Francois de Beer.

Grey College: 15 Lamla Mgedezi, 14 Johan Dormehl, 13 Eddie Mabena, 12 Ruan Roux, 11 Jaco Oosthuizen, 10 Christoff Crous, 9 Jonathan Drysdale, 8 Niel du Randt, 7 Henru Erasmus, 6 Xander de Beer, 5 Prestan Bennett, 4 Alexi Tyropolis (captain), 3 Hennie Bredenhann, 2 AJ Hendriks, 1 Frans-Paul Troskie.

Referee: Regardt O’Neill.
Kick-off: 14:00.

Die Hoërskool Klerksdorp kon nie vir ‘n moeiliker eerste ekspedisie in vanjaar se Plaat-afdeling van die Virseker Noordvaal Cup gevra het nie.

Die span vanuit die Noordwes sal Saterdag teen die voorloper in die Plaat-afdeling, Hoërskool Nelspruit, te staan kom.

Die Rhinos nog onoorwonne na drie wedstryde en met 15 ligapunte heel bo-op die puntelys. Kempton Park, Zwartkop en Wesvalia is die enigste ander onoorwonne spanne oor in die Plaat-afdeling.

Die Rhinos sal wel die meer as ‘n 1,000 kilometer vir hierdie kragmeting afgelê het.

Nelspruit se heelagter, Rhandzu Mkhabela, tel onder die voorste heelagters op skolevlak vanjaar. Hy is ook tans met vier drieë die voorste driedrukker in die Plaat-afdeling. Hy kan die besoekers Saterdag heelwat hoofbrekens besorg.

Die tuisspan se skrumskakel, Kamo Monkwe, sal ook fyn deur Klerksdorp dopgehou moet word.

Klerksdorp sal heelwat selfvertroue uit sy sege van 38-23 oor Lichtenburg verlede week put. Die kragmeting was ‘n FNB Classic Clash.

In Vanderbijlpark gaan die vonke behoorlik spat wanneer Transvalia teen Kempton Park uitdraf.

Transvalia was vroeër vanjaar met 21-13 oor die Kempies baas. Daar sou wel nie veel energie in die twee spanne gewees het vir dié kragmeting nie, want dit was ‘n uitspeelwedstryd om die negende en tiende posisie van die NWU Sport-reeks.

Die twee spanne het mekaar al sewe keer sedert 2022 gepak. Transvalia was in vyf van die wedstryde baas, terwyl Kempies in 2025 (28-21) en 2024 (31-21) die septer geswaai het. Kempies se wen oor Valia in 2025 was ook in die NWU Sport-reeks. Valia het verlede jaar nog onder die groot honde in die Beker-afdeling van die Noordvaal-reeks baklei.

Transvalia se losskakel, Jaydee Maree, kan met sy skopskoen Saterdag die verskil tussen die twee spanne wees. Die tuisspan het egter nog nie vanjaar in die Virseker Noordvaal Cup die soet smaak van ‘n sege geproe nie.

Hy het teen Zwartkop (19-54) en Nelspruit (20-31) die onderspit gedelf. Kempton is egter steeds onoorwonne met twee seges oor Oos-Moot (52-8) en HTS Middelburg (27-12).

Indien die Kempies se agterhoede genoeg balbesit kry kan Aubrey Hoskin (regtervleuel) en Guillaume Botha (binnesenter) verwoesting saai.

Die spanne is :

Hoërskool Nelspruit t. Hoërskool Klerksdorp om 12:30 in Mbombela: 

Hoërskool Nelspruit: 15 Rhandzu Mkhabela, 14 Tye Habib, 13 Alex Hallet, 12 Rian Botha, 11 Hanre Smit, 10 Ewan van der Merwe, 9 Kamo Monkwe, 8 Vian Louw, 7 Christiaan de Klerk, 6 Aldo van Jaarsveld, 5 Ruan Ehlers, 4 Robroy MacGregor, 3 Marcel Lindique, 2 Mphobuhle Nyumba, 1 Christiaan Viljoen.

Hoërskool Klerksdorp: 15 Jayden Turner, 14 Tyran Masango, 13 Simphiwe Nero, 12 Marco Symmington, 11 Elzeno Schalkwyk, 10 Brendin Mathyse, 9 Rellston Wilson, 8 Gerrit Koen, 7 MP Willemse, 6 Karabelo Maseka, 5 SG De Klerk, 4 Daniel Schoeman, 3 Ricko le Roux, 2 De Wyk Pretorius, 1 De Waal Coetzer.

Transvalia t. Kempton Park om 12:40 in Vanderbijlpark: 

Transvalia: 15 Nhlosenhle MacCamel, 14 Dave Mthizi, 13 Waldo Mclean, 12 Lorenzo Flynn, 11 Xander Pretorius, 10 Jaydee Maree, 9 Johan Smit, 8 Matthew van Niekerk, 7 Caylan McLauchlin, 6 GJ Rossouw, 5 Juhan Basson, 4 Jeanre Barnard, 3 Damian van Heerden, 2 Justin Sampson, 1 Wimpie Maritz

Kempton Park: 15 Ruan Opperman, 14 Aubrey Hoskin, 13 Ettienne Stroebel, 12 Guillaume Botha, 11 Ethan Botha, 10 Heinrich Burger, 9 Kehan Kruger, 8 Christian Nixon, 7 Wihan Strey, 6 Marko van der Walt, 5 Juan Hall, 4 Ruan Mostert, 3 Reece van Loggenburg, 2 Matthew Vermaak, 1 Tristan Marx.

Reece-Edwards Field will be pumping on Northwood‘s Old Boys’ Day on Saturday. The Knights host Maritzburg College at 15:00.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools

After Northwood beat Westville Boys’ High 19-14 at the Sharks Schools Rugby Day and College edged out Durban High School (DHS) 18-17 on Gilfillan Field, rugby lovers should be salivating for the showdown in Durban.

Both games were very physical, uncompromising, with the pride the players held in their jerseys to the fore.

Northwood’s imposing Jamie Wimble exited their game against Westville early. He appeared to be dealing with a cough, but if he is fit, that would be a big boost for the home side. They have a more than capable replacement in Kevin von Volenstee, though. While Wimble was recently named in the Sharks’ Craven Week team at no. 8, Von Volenstee cracked the nod in the Sharks Academy squad.

Maritzburg College’s captain and no. 8, Rory Stanton, was outstanding in the win over DHS and crossed for a brace of tries in the second half. His success, though, was the product of a 15-man effort. The Red, Black, and White‘s voracious defence showed many similarities to that of Northwood in their win over Westville.

Something’s got to give on Saturday, but a high-scoring game appears unlikely; both sides show far too much pride on defence to allow that to happen. Nothing is guaranteed, however.

The Knights’ Anesu Kuzonyei, another Craven Week selection, has shown he doesn’t need much ball to make an impact, and he’s a huge threat on cross-kicks. His aerial prowess has earned him a handful of tries this campaign.

Behind the packs, it will be a duel between the Craven Week scrumhalves, Dom du Toit (College) and Ludi van der Walt (Northwood). Both do a tidy job of providing their backs with good-quality ball, and both are good goal kickers. With ice in his veins, Du Toit won the match for College against DHS with the last kick of the game.

College’s big centre, Olwethu Kosani, is a dangerous, powerful runner. Northwood did a good job of containing Westville’s outstanding midfielder, Jadrian Afrikaner, last weekend, and they’ll need to be as wary and effective against Kosani on Reece-Edwards Field.

Buckle up! It should be a great game.

Kearsney College vs Durban High School (DHS)

Another equally exciting match takes place on Stott Field at Kearsney College, where the One-Stripe faces Durban High School (DHS) at 15:00.

Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools

The Horseflies head into the game having lost four on the trot. They’re now five and four on the season, but underestimating coach Peter Engledow‘s charges would be a silly mistake, and it’s not one that Kearsney will make. Those four losses were to Monument and Paarl Gimnasium, who are among the top teams in the country, at the Absa Wildeklawer Tournament, and by three points to Northwood, and one to Maritzburg College.

Both sides are well represented in the Sharks’ Craven Week and Academy Week squads. DHS has five players – Nathan Aneke, Amo Mataboge, Zion Smith, Iglesias Bruiners, and Priden Sibiya – in the Craven Week line-up, and six in the Academy Week squad – Sterling Padi, Tanwil Onkers, Richaard Kriel, Aobakwe Moeng, Bulelani Cebane, and Phokuhle Hlatshwayo.

The return of Smith, their inspirational captain, who missed the Maritzburg College game, is a big boost for the visitors.

Kearsney has four players in the Craven Week line-up – Lwazi Mbebe, Daniel Miskey, Nhlanhla Ndlovu, and Clement Makalele – and the first three (Makalele is a front-ranker) are among the most exciting playmakers to be found anywhere.

DHS will be focused on closing down space when that trio is in possession. Loose kicking onto Mbebe, at fullback, is a recipe for disaster. He’s hugely unpredictable, which is challenging for his own team at times, due to Mbebe’s unorthodox thinking.

While School has the names up front, Kearsney’s pack is solid and extremely hard-working. They’ll fight for every centimetre of the field.

If the play stays tight, it should tilt DHS’s way. If it opens up a bit, Kearsney will fancy their chances. They’re one of the most inventive and exciting attacking teams in the game.

Northwood vs Maritzburg College at Reece-Edwards Field, Durban, at 15:00

Northwood: N/A

Maritzburg College: 15 Sandiswa Hadebe, 14 Sakhokuhle Xaba, 13 Olwethu Kosani, 12 Likhona Kosani, 11 Matthew Harris, 10 Luthando Dlamini, 9 Dom du Toit, 8 Rory Stanton, 7 Caleb Sweetman, 6 David Colenbrander, 5 Joshua Thompson, 4 Sean Jansen, 3 Alande Ngubande, 2 Theo Boshoff, 1 Linamandla Mabanga.

Kearsney College vs Durban High School at Stott Field, Botha’s Hill, at 15:00

Kearsney College: 15 Lwazi Mbebe, 14 Luke Grobbelaar, 13 Thomas Aylward, 12 Keanu Williamson, 11 Lwandile Mkhize, 10 Daniel Miskey, 9 Fynn Verbaan, 8 Nhlnhla Ndlovu, 7 Oliver Ludwig, 6 James Whatmore, 5 Thomas Francke, 4 Robert Gelderman, 3 Tunga Griffiths, 2 Matthew Wilson, 1 Clement Makelele.

Durban High School: 15 Tanwil Onkers, 14 Amo Mataboge, 13 Sterling Padi, 12 Nathan Aneke, 11 Richard Gyamfi, 10 Cilermo Carlous, 9 Hlomelo Mbane, 8 Aobakwe Moeng, 7 Jose Lottering, 6 D Swart, 5 Bulelani Cebane, 4 Ambisiwe Sipanga, 3 Priden Sibiya, 2 Okuhle Mbanjwa, 1 Tumiso Mokoena.

Na die eerste twee rondes van die Skild-afdeling van die Virseker Noordvaal Cup is die liga soos verwag nog wawyd oop.

Verlede jaar se naaswenner, Hoërskool Pietersburg, sal na Heidelberg reis om teen Heidelberg Volkskool daar kragte te meet. Die Pieties het verlede jaar in die eindstryd teen Montana van Pretoria met 28-32 vasgeval.

Die besoekers sal as die gunsteling op die veld draf, maar Volkies is nooit ‘n span wat die stryd net gewonne op sy tuisveld gee nie. Die Pieties het vir Marais Viljoen van Alberton verlede week met 31-22 getroef.

Die span se woelige haker, Ziahn Lombaard, het sy goeie spelpeil voortgesit en twee keer agter die doellyn gaan kuier. Die Volkies se Henru Coetzer het die moeilike taak om vir Lombaard in toom te hou.

Die besoekers se vaskopstut en kaptein, Stephan Jansen van Rensburg, is ook ‘n moeilike kalant om voorlangs dop te hou. Hulle heelagter, Ryno Mienie, kan ook ‘n doring in die tuisspan se vlees wees.

Marais Viljoen sal op sy tuisveld in Alberton probeer om Secunda om te dop.

Die besoekers het verlede week ‘n goeie sege van 32-20 oor Eldoraigne behaal. Die span van Alberton sal dus ná Saterdag se uitslag weet of hul seisoen op koers is.

Die tuisspan se agtsteman, Joshua O’Brien, is tot dusver gesamentlik met twee drieë die voorste driedrukker in dié afdeling. O’Brien sal met sy kraglopies sy span op die voorvoet teen Secunda moet hou.

Die tweestryd in die skrums tussen Secunda se kaptein en vaskopstut, Nathan Erasmus, en die tuisspan se Caden Sheasby behoort ook vir heelwat vuurwerk te sorg.

Lichtenburg pak hierde week die ongeveer 1,200 kilometer heen en weer na Tzaneen aan.

As hierdie taak nie uitdagend genoeg is nie, wag die Buffels van Ben Vorster hom Saterdag om 12:35 ook nog in.

Dit sal die Liggies se eerste wedstryd in vanjaar se Skild-afdeling wees. Hy het verlede week teen die Hoërskool Klerksdorp in ‘n FNB Classic Clash met 23-38 die knie gebuig.

Die Vossies het daarenteen ‘n goeie sege van 21-19 oor Ligbron Akademie behaal. Die tuisspan se gevaarman is die ervare, Ruben Pohl op haker. Hy het reeds verlede jaar die Limpopo Blou Bulle op die Cravenweek in Middelburg verteenwoordig.

Die linkervleuel, Tumi Ramohlale, is ook ‘n speler wat met sy vaart die Liggies probleme kan besorg.

Die spanne is: 

Heidelberg Volkskool t. Hoërskool Pietersburg om 12:30 in Heidelberg: 

Heidelberg Volkskool: 15 Tyrone Munro, 14 Steph Loubser, 13 JR Liebenberg, 12 Vaughn Steynvaart, 11 Jerado Tafel, 10 Tristan Munro, 9 Hein Oelofse, 8 Juandre Pretorius, 7 Klaas Venter, 6 Jaco Botha (kaptein), 5 Albie Botha, 4 Jano Dietrechsen, 3 Darius Minie, 2 Henru Coetzer, 1 Reuben Bothma.

Hoërskool Pietersburg: 15 Ryno Mienie, 14 Armand Venter, 13 Juan Dreyer, 12 Hanru Marais, 11 Basson Wolmarans, 10 Juan Randell, 9 Curtis Cloete, 8 Liam van der Bank, 7 Ignus Ferreira, 6 Andru de Beer, 5 Ludke Pienaar, 4 Brent Vorster, 3 Stephan Jansen van Rensburg (kaptein), 2 Ziahn Lombaard, 1 Dewan Windell.

Marais Viljoen t. Secunda om 12:30 in Alberton: 

Marais Viljoen: 15 Kabelo Tlhoaele, 14 Eldrique Adams, 13 Blake Worthington, 12 Dante Crous, 11 Nqoba Mathe, 10 Ovayo Jonas, 9 Peter Chihobo, 8 Joshua O’Brien, 7 Thato Mapuru, 6 Tshepo Tsholo, 5 Ukona Mahlehlo, 4 Dean Scheepers, 3 Markus Jacobs, 2 Frikkie Horn, 1 Caden Sheasby.

Secunda: 15 Liam Olivier, 14 Emilama Nose, 13 Andries Nel, 12 Herco Radley, 11 Jayden Scholtz, 10 Tristan Crouch, 9 Kwezi Mafanya, 8 JC Olivier, 7 Joshua Jansen, 6 Bernich Schmidt, 5 Adriaan Nortje, 4 Mickey Jordaan, 3 Nathan Erasmus (kaptein), 2 Xavier Scheepers, 1 Kyle Viljoen.

Ben Vorster t. Lichtenburg om 12:35 in Tzaneen: 

Ben Vorster: 15 Wessel Joubert, 14 Ronnel Komana, 13 Zane Trollip, 12 Edwin Matola, 11 Tumi Ramohlale, 10 Lolos Letlabola, 9 Josua van Eeden, 8 Joshua van der Mescht, 7 Ryan Gerhardt, 6 Kobus de Beer, 5 Wilhelm Brummer, 4 Dejuan du Plessis, 3 Jean-Jacques Crewe, 2 Ruben Pohl, 1 Thabang Nkuna.

Lichtenburg: 15 Karabelo Kgamanyana, 14 Vusi George, 13 WJ Liebenberg, 12 Thatu Seabo, 11 Andries Pretorius, 10 Hanjo Nieuwoudt, 9 Rea Motsusi, 8 Jaco Lotter, 7 Phillip Jacobs, 6 David Passetti, 5 George Bingudza, 4 Miguel Goncalves, 3 Tommy Drinkwater, 2 Johan Deyzel, 1 Ruben Pretorius.

St Charles College hosts Glenwood High in a King Price Derby clash in Pietermaritzburg on Saturday. It’s a big day for Saints, their Old Boys’ Weekend, and they’ll be highly motivated to get one over the visitors from Durban.

Kickoff is at 15:30. Catch the action LIVE on SuperSport Schools.

The match brings together two sides with contrasting identities. St Charles embraces an expansive game, and they try to get the ball out wide quickly. Glenwood, meanwhile, plays a more traditional game, using their forwards to soften up their opposition and suck in defenders before setting their backs moving.

The different approaches reflect the backgrounds of coaches, Craig Dwyer (St Charles) and Justin Hollis (Glenwood), with Dwyer’s rugby journey including a 10-year stint coaching in New Zealand. Dwyer, it should be noted, is a Glenwood Old Boy. Hollis hails from Queen’s College.

The Saints’ forwards should not be underestimated, though. They started the season without specialist locks because of injuries, but they now boast a clean bill of health, with Joshua Harris and Braydon Joese filling the second row. Glenwood will be without their big second-rower and captain, Sambesiwe Ndamase, with loosehead prop, Bonga Cibane, taking over the leadership reins.

Another big change for the visitors is Jonah Chaita playing flyhalf. Last weekend, Joshua Kopp pulled on the no.10 jersey. Opposite Chaita, Caleb Sharp possesses a fantastic goal-kicking boot. Regularly converting tries to turn five points into seven points is valuable.

One of Glenwood’s most exciting players is their hooker, Tyler Leon. He’s not a tall player, but he’s rock solid and a powerful presence around the park, usually good for a bullocking highlight run or two.

In the backline, fullback Rosco Williams provides the spark, along with inside centre, Elgenio Oerson. They were both included in the Sharks Academy Week team.

Saints’ fullback PJ Dlamini is also a counterattacking threat, good at spotting opportunities and gaps. In the back three, his wings, Raheem Wheatley and the experienced Matthew Ludick, bring some gas to the wide attack.

Both teams have found themselves just off the pace in a very competitive KZN season at the top level. Rugby in the province is in a very healthy state, and keeping up with the front-runners is a tough challenge. But they’ve both also produced some entertaining rugby.

Glenwood’s played a tougher schedule and has played good rugby in spurts. In their most recent outing, they pushed Hilton College hard on Gilfillan Field and trailed only 7-17 at halftime before Hilton hit their stride in the second half and pulled away to a 42-7 victory.

St Charles had too much firepower for Clifton at the Sharks Schools Rugby Day. They’ll find the Green Machine to be a far more abrasive challenge.

In the cauldron-like setting of Old Orchards, with Saints vociferously backed by their schoolmates and Old Boys, Glenwood can expect a stern examination, but they’ve never shied away from a challenge, and an exciting game is on the cards.

St Charles College vs Glenwood High at Old Orchards, Pietermaritzburg, at 15:30

St Charles College: 15 PJ Dlamini, 14 Raheem Wheatley, 13 Nala Njabulo, 12 Likuthi Mbalana, 11 Mathew Ludick, 10 Caleb Sharp, 9 Agape Nyawo, 8 Thomas Borgen, 7 Hlubelihle Nkosi, 6 Joshua Barkhuizen, 5 Joshua Harris, 4 Braydon Joese, 3 Bonga Nkosi, 2 Dresden Coetzee, 1 Dane Allardice.

Glenwood High: 15 Rosco Williams, 14 Lebohang Skosana, 13 Cade Isaacs, 12 Elgenio Oerson, 11 Jakub Bednar, 10 Jonah Chaita, 9 Vincenzo Loutz, 8 Inginathi Pepu, 7 Cody Sell, 6 Andile Mbokazi, 5 James Swift, 4 Nathan Lupke, 3 Zazi Msimango, 2 Tyler Leon, 1 Bonga Cibane.