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The Golden Lions have no intention of relinquishing their Academy Week title this year at Hoërskool Middelburg. That much is clear following the irresistible start the Gauteng outfit enjoyed against a severely wounded Griffons side.

Relive all the action on SuperSport Schools – (www.supersportschools.com) 

The Lions ran in an astonishing 16 tries as they annihilated the Purple People Eaters by a massive margin of 108-14 in the main match of the first day. The assault was led by loose forwards, Ryno van der Westhuizen and captain, Grady Ngui, who both rushed in for a brace of tries.

Van der Westhuizen and Ngui, however, were not the only ones to cross the whitewash twice. The ever-impressive Ruan Genis, Samuel Smith and King Edward VII School fullback, Indibabale Mboniswa, all joined in on the fun, contributing another six tries between the three of them. Jaydon Viljoen enjoyed a memorable day from the tee. Having ample opportunities at goal, the Monument marksman slotted 14 of his 16 attempts at goal for a contribution of 28 points.

Whoever has aspirations of taking down the roaring Lions in their hunt for a third consecutive Academy Week title, most certainly have their work cut out.

Eastern Province ended the Sharks‘ run for a shot at the title with a closely contested 39-33 victory. Having to work hard in the second 35 minutes, EP hit their straps, scoring 26 points to the Sharks’ 12, to come back from 13-21 down at halftime to secure an opening victory.

Bulumko Kilani provided the necessary punch with his boot to help the side from the Eastern Cape across the line. He converted all four of his side’s tries and also succeeded with two important penalties, which finally proved the difference between the two sides.

In the main match on the Middies’ C-Field, the South Western Districts Eagles capped off the day’s action with a runaway victory of their own, smashing the Leopards 61-7. Openside flanker, Sirr Lourens, and right winger, Ruzano Stander, contributed four tries between the two of them, while Charles Volsoo converted eight of his side’s nine tries.

The Valke gave neighbours, Namibia, a chilly reception. The Red Devils outside centre, Dylan Jordaan, scored the umpteenth brace of the day to help the East Rand side to a comfortable 37-22 victory, which will see them square off with Griquas on Wednesday.

Scorers: 

Hoërskool Middelburg B-Field: 

Golden Lions 108 (49) – Tries: Ryno van der Westhuizen (2), Grady Ngui (2), Ruan Genis (2), Samuel Smith (2), Indibabale Mboniswa (2), Sifiso Shongwe, Sipho Cele, Aluwani Ndlovu, Matthew Hunt, Jeandre van der Merwe, Ndimphiwe Mjiji. Conversions: Jaydon Viljoen (14). Griffons 14 (7) – Tries: Wessel van Niekerk, Penalty Try. Conversions: Adriaan Bonthuys.

Eastern Province 39 (13) – Tries: Athelihle Bonga, Joshua van Zyl, Chrisjan de Lange, Bradley Myburgh, Wendall Uithaler. Conversions: Bulumko Kilani (4). Penalty: Kilani (2). Sharks 33 (21) – Tries: Daniel Fwita (2), Theo Boshoff, Cilermo Carolus, Mili George. Conversions: Lwazi Mbebe (4).

Hoërskool Middelburg C-Field: 

South Western Districts 61 (14) – Tries: Sirr Lourens (2), Ruzano Stander (2), Henru Nel, Wayne Ganniwa, Farrel Dido, André van der Merwe, Grante Savage. Conversions: Charles Vosloo (8).

Valke 37 (17) – Tries: Dylan Jordaan (2), Branden Sauerman, Wihandré Kruger, Duwayne Zeekoei. Conversions: Jason Coetzer (3). Penalty: Coetzer (3). Namibia 22 (7) – Tries: Jurick van der Berg, Jaywin du Plessis, Vincent Scholtz. Conversions: MC van Wyk (2). Penalty: William Beukes.

It only took the first half of their opening game at the 2025 Academy Week at Hoërskool Middelburg on Monday for Western Province to establish themselves as early front-runners this year.

Relive all the action on SuperSport Schools – (www.supersportschools.com)

With a solid display in the first half that yielded 28 points, the side from the Cape did enough to eventually see off Free State 33-20 despite a bit of siesta in the second half.

Displaying early intensity, the Province pack set the platform for flyhalf Francois van der Merwe to unleash his dangerous backline, with No. 8, Thandolwethu Sithole of SACS, delivering a standout performance upfront. Sithole had the Free State defenders clutching at thin air on several occasions with his bulldozing runs and deceptive footwork, which earned him a brace of tries, while the dangerous Chadlin Sellidon also caused numerous headaches for the opposition on the attack.

For Free State, openside flanker Henru Erasmus gave his all and kept coming at WP for the full 70 minutes, both with his strong carries and a valiant display on defence.

Redemption was sweet for the Golden Lions XV, as they avenged last year’s loss by beating the Blue Bulls 31-26 in a seesaw battle this time around. The “Welpies” nevertheless still had to deal with Ronan Bastiaanse, who managed to accumulate 21 of his side’s 26 points.

However, spearheaded by the energetic Llewellyn Vermaak and fellow Helpmekaar Kollege representative, Diandro Botha, who were both exceptional in the loose, along with Monument’s Siyabonga Ncube, the Lions were just too good at the end of the day and full value for their five-point victory. They led 16-15 at the break.

Boland kicked off their campaign with a solid 36-26 victory over Border, thanks to braces from fullback Favian Arendse and Hoërskool Porterville’s Nicolai Diedericks. Arendse’s two tries were richly deserved following a relentless attacking performance from the rear.

The Limpopo Blue Bulls achieved a shock 27-24 victory over the hosts, the Pumas. Flyhalf Juan Randall led the way with a great performance from the tee, slotting three conversions and two penalties, and also weighed in with a try for a personal contribution of 17 points. Pumas’ Hanro Terblanche recorded the week’s first hat-trick of tries in a losing cause.

Scorers: 

Hoërskool Middelburg B-Field: 

Western Province 33 (28) – Tries: Thandolwethu Sithole (2), Lupo Makholiso, Harry Soboil, Luke Kent. Conversions: Francois van der Merwe (4). Free State 20 (8) – Tries: Henru Marais, Tian Fourie, Thristan Maree. Conversion: Samson Lacjay. Penalty: Lacjay.

Golden Lions XV 31 (17) – Tries: Diandro Botha, Siyabonga Ncube, Llewellyn Vermaak, Mkhile Dyakala. Conversions: Daniel Soekoe (4). Penalty: Soekoe. Blue Bulls 26 (16) – Tries: Morné Coetzer, Ronan Bastiaanse. Conversions: Bastiaanse (2). Penalties: Bastiaanse (4).

Boland 36 (21) – Tries: Favian Arendse (2), Nicolai Diedericks (2), Jano van Deventer. Conversions: Van Deventer (4). Penalty: Van Deventer. Border 26 (14) – Tries: Khaka Xoeseni (2), Mivugo Kongela, Mahle Zinto. Conversions: Inganathi Mnunu (3).

Hoërskool Middelburg C-Field: 

LSEN XV 16 (8) – Tries: Rigen Chigose, Jean McEwan. Penalties: Yusuf Hannibal (2). Border Country Districts 10 (0) – Tries: Legend Abrahams, Steven Lubowa.

Limpopo Blou Bulle 27 (17) – Tries: Lourens Pieterse, Juan Randall, Jayden Enslin. Conversions: Randall (3). Penalty: Randall (2). Pumas 24 (24) – Tries: Hanro Terblanche (3), Marius Volsoo. Conversions: John Duncan (2).

Zimbabwe 42 (21) – Tries: Julian Nkikavaranda, Sibusiso Sibanda, Tapiwanashe Majuru, Curtis Mashoonganyika, Rukudzo Mayida. Conversions: Rukudzo Mayida (4), Penalties: Mayida (3). Griquas 31 (17) – Tries: Dohan Dege, Amiel Soudens, Johannes Fleming, Hlompo Rooibaadjie. Conversions: JG van Heerden (4). Penalty: Van Heerden.

South Western Districts managed to keep their exceptional record against the Free State at the annual FNB u18 Craven Week intact, with a 35-34 victory on the opening day of the 60th edition in Middelburg, Mpumalanga.

The last and only time the Free State was able to beat SWD at the Craven Week was back in 1972. The team from the southern Cape came out on top in the other two encounters before today in 2008 (31-25) and 2022 (29-19).

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

It was a blitzkrieg of three tries in five minutes by Tyrese Plaatjies, Kai Pratt and Jade Peterson between the 62nd and the 67th minute that gave SWD the upper hand.

Just two minutes before Plaatjies crossed the tryline, referee Charlwyn Darries showed Free State flyhalf Darius Erwee a yellow card. A minute later, Darries also sent lock Claude Steyn to the sin bin.

Free State could feel a bit hard done by as Plaatjies seemed to have stepped on the touchline in the in-goal area while starting the blitzkrieg. It was not sent for review to the television match official, as Darries probably didn’t believe there was any reason not to award the try.

SWD’s inside centre, Christiaan Vorster, was on fire throughout the match. He was superb on both attack and defence. Other standout players in the victory was Keenan Myners (hooker), Dian Augustyn (lock), Jacobus de Villiers (eighthman) and Reinhardt Viljoen (fullback).

For Free State, their fullback, Lamla Mgedezi, created a couple of opportunities, while Ethan Adams (outside centre) also produced a solid performance.

In the opening match on the first day, Western Province XV proved too strong for the Griffons. The team from the Western Cape won comfortably by 52-6.

The victors scored eight tries with inside centre Iwan Jordaan converting six of them. Lock Gershom Pieters could also feel more than happy with his performance on the day. In the backs, Kunene Gadu showcased his class in the midfield.

Scorers: 

South Western Districts 35 (11) – Tries: Anrich Scheffer, Christiaan Vorster, Tyrese Plaatjies, Kai Pratt, Jade Peterson. Conversions: Jandrian Goosen (2). Penalties: Virgil Pockpas (2). Free State 34 (17) – Tries: Darius Erwee, Xander Smit, Claude Steyn, Lamla Mgedezi, O’Ryan Kleyn. Conversions: Darius Erwee (2), Kleyn. Penalty: Erwee.

Western Province XV 52 (24) – Tries: Kunene Gadu, Liam de Villiers, Tristan Joubert, Gershom Pieters, Chadley Davids, Steph van der Merwe, Siphesihle Mbungendlu, Bernardt Schulze. Conversions: Iwan Jordaan (6). Griffons 6 (6) – Penalties: Olereko Sebatana (2).

Loose forward Thando Biyela will lead the Junior Springboks in their third and final Pool A match at the World Rugby U20 Championship against Scotland, which kicks off at 15h30 on Wednesday at the Stadio San Michele in Calvisano.

Even though the SA U20 side show several rotational changes from the team that beat England in their previous group match in Rovigo, the match-23 to face Scotland is a strong combination filled with experience.

Fullback Gilermo Mentoe, right wing Cheswill Jooste, outside centre Gino Cupido, and flyhalf Vusi Moyo are retained from the starting fifteen that defeated England on Friday evening.

Upfront, Matt Romao (loose forward), Jaco Grobbelaar (lock), Jean Erasmus and Oliver Read (both props), and Jaundre Schoeman (hooker) all provided impact off the bench against Australia and England, and are now in the starting pack.

According to Kevin Foote, the Junior Springbok head coach, they’ve named a team that will play this important pool game with real purpose and pride against a very good Scotland side. A win will solidify the Junior Boks’ top spot in Pool A.

“We are fortunate that the players in our match-23 have experience playing for the Junior Boks against Georgia, in the U20 Rugby Championship, and also in our warm-up matches against Kenya,” said Foote.

“It is a tremendous honour for any player to represent the Junior Boks and the starting fifteen for Wednesday have earned that right because everyone has worked extremely hard to be in consideration.

“Thando has captained us already earlier this year, Stephanus Linde played for us against Georgia, while Matt Romao was our Man of the Match against Argentina in the Rugby Championship.

“Jaco Williams, Jaco Grobbelaar, and Oliver Reid have all seen a lot of action in the two previous group matches, while we have more experience that will come off the bench in Herman Lubbe, JJ Theron, Batho Hlekani, and Haashim Pead.”

The Junior Bok coach described the team to face Scotland as an experienced selection with exciting combinations.

“We have players whom we believe have a lot of experience, they know our game very well, and they have a lot of hunger to do well against what will be a highly motivated Scotland on Wednesday,” said Foote.

Foote said they have done their homework on Scotland, know what to expect from them, and have a very healthy respect for the Scottish.

“We have a strong desire to improve and we are determined to keep building on our game model, and to make sure we maintain our synergy and cohesion as a team,” he said.

“Everyone understands the threat that Scotland brings, and we feel they have played some good rugby. They attack well and their set piece has been solid; so, they will pose a very big threat for us, and we will not underestimate them. We are looking forward to meeting an exciting challenge on Wednesday.”

Junior Springbok team to face Scotland in Calvisano:

15. Gilermo Mentoe
14. Cheswill Jooste
13. Gino Cupido
12. Dominic Malgas
11. Jaco Williams
10. Vusi Moyo
9. Ceano Everson
8. Stephanus Linde
7. Matt Romao
6. Thando Biyela (captain)
5. Morne Venter
4. Jaco Grobbelaar
3. Jean Erasmus
2. Jaundre Schoeman
1. Oliver Reid

Replacements

16. Siphosethu Mnebelele
17. Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka
18. Herman Lubbe
19. JJ Theron
20. Batho Hlekani
21. Haashim Pead
22. Ian van der Merwe
23. Demitre Erasmus

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

Scorers: 

Hoërskool Middelburg B-Field: 

Golden Lions 108 (49) – Tries: Ryno van der Westhuizen (2), Grady Ngui (2), Ruan Genis (2), Samuel Smith (2), Indibabale Mboniswa (2), Sifiso Shongwe, Sipho Cele, Aluwani Ndlovu, Matthew Hunt, Jeandre van der Merwe, Ndimphiwe Mjiji. Conversions: Jaydon Viljoen (14). Griffons 14 (7) – Tries: Wessel van Niekerk (2). Conversions: Adriaan Bonthuys (2).

Eastern Province 39 (13) – Tries: Athelihle Bonga, Joshua van Zyl, Chrisjan de Lange, Bradley Myburgh, Wendall Uithaler. Conversions: Bulumko Kilani (4). Penalty: Kilani (2). Sharks 33 (21) – Tries: Theo Boshoff, Cilermo Carolus, Mili George. Conversions: Lwazi Mbebe (4).

Golden Lions XV 31 (17) – Tries: Diandro Botha, Siyabonga Ncube, Llewellyn Vermaak, Mkhile Dyakala. Conversions: Daniel Soekoe (4). Penalty: Soekoe. Blue Bulls 26 (16) – Tries: Morné Coetzer, Ronan Bastiaanse. Conversions: Bastiaanse (2). Penalties: Bastiaanse (4).

Western Province 33 (28) – Tries: Thandolwethu Sithole (2), Lupo Makholiso, Harry Soboil, Luke Kent. Conversions: Francois van der Merwe (4). Free State 20 (8) – Tries: Henru Marais, Tian Fourie, Thristan Maree. Conversion: Samson Lacjay. Penalty: Lacjay.

Boland 36 (21) – Tries: Favian Arendse (2), Nicolai Diedericks (2), Jano van Deventer. Conversions: Van Deventer (4). Penalty: Van Deventer. Border 26 (14) – Tries: Khaka Xoeseni (2), Mivugo Kongela, Mahle Zinto. Conversions: Inganathi Mnunu (3).

Hoërskool Middelburg C-Field: 

South Western Districts 61 (14) – Tries: Sirr Lourens (2), Ruzano Stander (2), Henru Nel, Wayne Ganniwa, Farrel Dido, André van der Merwe, Grante Savage. Conversions: Charles Vosloo (8).

Valke 37 (17) – Tries: Dylan Jordaan (2), Branden Sauerman, Wihandré Kruger, Duwayne Zeekoei. Conversions: Jason Coetzer (3). Penalty: Coetzer (3). Namibia 22 (7) – Tries: Jurick van der Berg, Jaywin du Plessis, Vincent Scholtz. Conversions: MC van Wyk (2). Penalty: William Beukes.

Limpopo Blou Bulle 27 (17) – Tries: Lourens Pieterse, Juan Randall, Jayden Enslin. Conversions: Randall (3). Penalty: Randall (2). Pumas 24 (24) – Tries: Hanro Terblanche (3), Marius Volsoo. Conversions: John Duncan (2).

Zimbabwe 42 (21) – Tries: Julian Nkikavaranda, Sibusiso Sibanda, Tapiwanashe Majuru, Curtis Mashoonganyika, Rukudzo Mayida. Conversions: Rukudzo Mayida (4), Penalties: Mayida (3). Griquas 31 (17) – Tries: Dohan Dege, Amiel Soudens, Johannes Fleming, Hlompo Rooibaadjie. Conversions: JG van Heerden (4). Penalty: Van Heerden.

LSEN XV 16 (8) – Tries: Rigen Chigose, Jean McEwan. Penalties: Yusuf Hannibal (2). Border Country Districts 10 (0) – Tries: Legend Abrahams, Steven Lubowa.

Scorers: 

Pumas 44 (12) – Try: Franko Rossouw (2), Siyanda Dennison, Katlego Baloyi, Jacques Greyling, D’Angelo Roberts. Conversions: Matthew Abbey (4). Penalties: Abbey (2). Limpopo Blue Bulls 22 (14) – Tries: Funi Simba (2), Tshenello Nkwana. Conversions: Ryno Mienie (2). Penalty: Mienie.

Golden Lions 36 (14) – Tries: Shaye Lourens (2), André Poulton, Lindelani Nkambule, Ethan Lourens. Conversions: Jeandré Uithaler (4). Penalty: Uithaler. Blue Bulls 35 (20) – Tries: Okuhle Hini, Drewyn Baron, Jeffrey Singo, Zirk Meyer, Thabiso Simelane. Conversions: Ruben Groenewald (2). Penalties: Groenewald (2).

South Western Districts 35 (11) – Tries: Anrich Scheffer, Christiaan Vorster, Tyrese Plaatjies, Kai Pratt, Jade Peterson. Conversions: Jandrian Goosen (2). Penalties: Virgil Pockpas (2). Free State 34 (17) – Tries: Darius Erwee, Xander Smit, Claude Steyn, Lamla Mgedezi, O’Ryan Kleyn. Conversions: Darius Erwee (2), Kleyn. Penalty: Erwee.

Western Province XV 52 (24) – Tries: Kunene Gadu, Liam de Villiers, Tristan Joubert, Gershom Pieters, Chadley Davids, Steph van der Merwe, Siphesihle Mbungendlu, Bernardt Schulze. Conversions: Iwan Jordaan (6). Griffons 6 (6) – Penalties: Olereko Sebatana (2).

It is that time of the year again when we act as selectors and pick our own SA Schools’ team before the annual FNB u18 Craven Week.

This year’s 60th edition of the prestigious event is hosted in Middleburg by Hoërskool Middelburg from 7 to 12 July.

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

Please note that this is SuperSport Schools Plus’ SA Schools side and not the official SA Schools side. The official SA Schools side will be announced later this week.

Western Province dominates our selection, but if someone manages to surprise the early favourites to be crowned unofficial champions, it could cause some new names to enter the SA Schools selectors’ selections.

Western Province has never managed to finish a Craven Week unbeaten in Middelburg.

This year’s selection has been easier than in previous years, as the two standout centres in the country — Markus Muller (Western Province) and Ethan Adams (Free State) — practically picked themselves. Muller also gets our nod as captain, his union’s side is captained by Josh Neill, who will also be a contender to lead the real side.

Adams already represented the squad in 2024. Another three returning members from the Class of 2024 – Zekhe Siyaya (fullback), Josh Neill (flanker) and AJ Meyer (lock) also naturally made our selection.

Another three players – Briint Davids (flanker), Jordan Jooste (prop) and André Poulton (prop), who represented the SA Schools A-side in 2024, made our selection.

Other easy picks are that of Jayden Brits (scrumhalf), Luan van der Berg (tighthead prop) and Clinton Agu (hooker).

SuperSport Schools Plus’ team: 

15 Zekhe Siyaya (Westville Boys’ High, Sharks), 14 Damien Witbooi (Eastern Province), 13 Ethan Adams (Grey College, Free State), 12 Markus Muller (Paarl Gimnasium, Western Province), 11 Jadrian Afrikaner (Sharks), 10 Matthew Abbey (Hoërskool Middelburg, Pumas), 9 Jayden Brits (Boland Landbou, Western Province), 8 Quintin Potgieter (Paarl Gimnasium, Western Province), 7 Josh Neill (Rondebosch Boys’ High, Western Province), 6 Briint Davids (Western Province), 5 AJ Meyer (Grey College, Free State), 4 Daniel Malakiya (HeronBridge College, Blue Bulls), 3 Luan van der Berg (Garsfontein, Blue Bulls), 2 Clinton Agu (Noordheuwel, Golden Lions), 1 Jordan Jooste (Paarl Boys’ High, Western Province). Replacements: 16 Keenan Myners (South Western Districts), 17 Kai Pratt (Oakdale Landbou, South Western Districts), 18 André Poulton (Jeppe, Golden Lions), 19 Diaan Augustyn (South Western Districts), 20 Daniel Kazambo (Valke), 21 Sherwin Buys (Free State), 22 Ruben Groenewald (Affies, Blue Bulls), 23 Lamla Mgedezi (Free State).

Players to Watch: 

Fullbacks: Zekhe Siyaya (Sharks), Lamla Mgedezi (Free State), Junaide Pasensie (Blue Bulls), Reinhardt Viljoen (South Western Districts), Meyer Prinsloo (Eastern Province), Tidi Moeketsane (Golden Lions), Joze Draghoender (Griffons), Clinton Brits (Griqualand West), Jadon Ocks (Western Province).

Right Wings: Damien Witbooi (Eastern Province), Lee-Winn Pretorius (South Western Districts), Jason Ocks (Western Province XV), Bradley Snyer (Leopards), Siyabonga Kenny (Free State), Jeneal Davids (Western Province).

Outside Centres: Ethan Adams (Free State), Leskin Samuels (Blue Bulls), Lindelani Nkambule (Golden Lions), Jacques Greyling (Pumas), William Ridl (Sharks), Randall-John Davids (Western Province), Tristan Joubert (Western Province XV).

Inside Centres: Markus Muller (Western Province), Christiaan Vorster (South Western Districts), O’Ryan Kleyn (Free State), Sean McCough (Sharks), Toriq Schambreel (Free State), Ethan Lourens (Golden Lions), Jonathan Harding (Griqualand West), Sean McGough (Sharks), Sedwin Gysman (Griffons).

Left Wings: Junaide Stuart (Blue Bulls), Jadrian Afrikaner (Sharks), Tinyiko Silubane (Pumas), Otlotleng Zulu (Valke), Ncutu Kepe (Border).

Flyhalves: Matthew Abbey (Pumas), Ruben Groenewald (Blue Bulls), Virgil Pockpas (South Western Districts), Will Stevens (Eastern Province), Jeandré Uithaler (Golden Lions), Darius Erwee (Free State), Liyema Nela (Sharks), Ethan van Biljon (Western Province).

Scrumhalves: Jayden Brits (Western Province), Sherwin Buys (Free State), Liam Pringle (Pumas), Morné Noble (Western Province), Mickyle Booyise (Western Province XV), Liam de Villiers (Western Province XV).

Eighthmen: Quintin Potgieter (Western Province), Gert Kemp (Western Province), Pietman Kleinhans (Eastern Province), Jacobus de Villiers (South Western Districts), AJ Booysen (Free State), Stefan McDonald (Blue Bulls), Chinedu Amadi (Golden Lions).

Flankers: Josh Neill (Western Province), Daniel Kazambo (Valke), Elwin Janse van Vuuren (Blue Bulls), Luan Potgieter (Blue Bulls), Josh MacKenzie (Eastern Province), Eugene de Lange (Golden Lions), Franko Rossouw (Pumas), Sam Bruwer (Golden Lions), Stefan Strauss (Griqualand West), KG Legodi (Leopards), Zander Muller (Sharks), Reabetswe Olifant (Griffons), Mumbere Vyambwera (Sharks).

Locks: AJ Meyer (Free State), Daniel Malikiya (Blue Bulls), Christiaan de Wet (Blue Bulls), Janco Aucamp (Pumas), Diaan Augustyn (South Western Districts), Jayden Joubert (Western Province), Juvan Burden (Western Province), Migael Turner (Western Province XV), Gershom Pieters (Western Province XV).

Tighthead Props: Luan van der Berg (Blue Bulls), JG Badenhorst (Free State), Matthew Prins (South Western Districts), Dian Ellis (Griqualand West).

Loosehead Props: André Poulton (Golden Lions), Kai Pratt (South Western Districts), Sphephelo Ntshangase (Sharks), Robert-John Osunkwo (Border), Roal Kruger (Blue Bulls).

Hookers: Clinton Agu (Golden Lions), Keenan Myners (South Western Districts), Altus Rabe (Western Province), Jaydrian Jacobs (Griqualand West), Marco Ventura (Valke), Tommy Muller (Western Province XV).

https://ssschoolsplus.co.za/supersport-schools-plus-predicts-the-sa-schools-side-of-2024/

South Africa’s leading schoolboys will be in action at the FNB u18 Craven Week tournament at Hoërskool Middelburg in Mpumalanga, starting on Monday with the final day scheduled for next Saturday.

The final instalment of SA Rugby’s 2025 FNB Youth Weeks programme will run from Monday 7 to Saturday 12 July, with 16 teams competing across the matches played on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

At the conclusion of the tournament, the SA Schools and SA Schools ‘A’ teams will be announced. They will face each other at Hoërskool Middelburg on Thursday, 17 July, while the U18 International Series will follow in August.

Nine players who featured in the SA Schools and SA U18 teams last year have been included in their provincial squads again. They are Josh Neill, Markus Muller, Briint Davids, Jordan Jooste (all WP), Ethan Adams, AJ Meyer (both Free State), Zekhe Siyaya (KZN), André Poulton (Lions), and Joshua McKenzie (EP).

Eight teams are in action on the opening day of the tournament, with the Western Province XV and the Griffons meeting in the first fixture at 09h30.

Free State, who went down to DHL Western Province in the final match of the 2024 tournament, will face South Western Districts thereafter.

The FNB u18 Craven Week Opening Ceremony at 14h00 will be followed by a clash between the Hollywood Foundation Pumas – the hosts of this year’s tournament – and the Limpopo Blue Bulls.

DHL Western Province, who finished last year’s tournament unbeaten, will be in action on Tuesday, along with the Leopards, Valke, Border, Suzuki Griquas, Sharks High Schools, Eastern Province and Sanlam Boland.

All the FNB u18 Craven Week action will be broadcast by SuperSport.

FNB u18 Craven Week day one schedule (Monday, 7 July):

09:30 – DHL Western Province XV v Griffons
11:00 – Free State v South Western Districts
12:30 – Blue Bulls v Obaro Golden Lions
14:00 – Opening Ceremony
14:30 – Hollywood Foundation Pumas v Limpopo Blue Bulls

FNB u18 Craven Week day two schedule (Tuesday, 8 July):

10:00 – Leopards vs Valke
11:30 – Border vs Suzuki Griquas
13:00 – Sharks vs Eastern Province
14:30 – DHL Western Province vs Sanlam Boland

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

Junior Springbok coach Kevin Foote credited his players for their composure and character after they recorded their second pool victory at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy with a great win over England in Rovigo on Friday evening.

Despite a slow start, the SA U20s remained calm and delivered the knock-out blow in a superb opening 10 minutes of the second half, followed by a commanding defensive performance, to beat the defending champions by 32-22.

England led 14-0 after 12 minutes but the Junior Boks clawed their way back and at 22-19 behind at the break, they were in the contest.

Thirteen unanswered points early in the second half – including a penalty goal of almost 60m by Vusi Moyo and a bonus point try by Haashim Pead for his second brace of the tournament – put the Junior Boks in the pound seats and they repelled England’s constant attacks thereafter for a great win.

With a full house of 10 log points from their two victories, a spot in the semi-finals is within reach, but Foote said they are still building and are only looking at the next match, against Scotland on Wednesday.

“We’ll take a lot of confidence from this victory, but Scotland are a good side, they ran England close in the Six Nations, and we certainly will not underestimate any team ever – we’ll keep our feet on the ground and focus on the next job,” said Foote.

“Having said that, I thought the boys showed massive character tonight to come back from 14-0 down, take the lead with some great attacking play, and then keep England out for the rest of the match.

“I have to applaud the leadership in our team as well – the players never panicked and those two penalty goals by Vusi early in the second half gave us momentum, after which I was super proud of our defence at the end.”

Foote said they realise they have to play for the full 80 minutes, and that they are getting closer to that.

“We were a bit slow at the breakdowns early in the game, where we turned over ball that gave England momentum and fatigued us,” said Foote.

“But as a team we spoke about getting better the harder the game gets. We remained calm and stuck to getting the next job done, staying with our processes and keeping the scoreboard ticking over.

“I also think our combinations are starting to click on defence, something we identified as an area to work on earlier in the season, and the way in which the guys defended at the end was huge.

“The players deserve credit for their bravery on defence and executing on the field – they showed great character, which is testament to the culture and belief in this team.”

SA U20 captain Riley Norton gave England credit for their strong start and said they knew it was going to be a great battle against the defending champions.

“We knew it was going to be tough, but I’m very proud of our defence at the end, as it’s something we pride ourselves on as South Africans,” said Norton.

“We’re out here giving everything for our country and we’re all very proud of the win, but we’re still building, and we’ll take massive confidence from this game.

“To be honest, it’s not quite sunk in yet. We will celebrate tonight, but tomorrow we go again – it’s five days until we face Scotland and we have the bigger picture in mind, so we’re very excited for the next three games.”

The Junior Boks’ final Pool A game against Scotland kicks off at 15h30 in Calvisano, after which the three pool winners and the best-placed team in second position will qualify for the semi-finals, on Monday 14 July.

Issued by SA Rugby Communications

The teams: 

Blue Bulls: 15 Ronan Bastiaanse (Waterkloof), 14 Medriano Abrhams (Menlopark), 13 Waylon Oncke (Overkruin), 12  Petrus Rautenbach (Affies), 11 Nico Klein (Die Wilgers), 10 Tilon Baron (Zwartkop), 9 Gustav Shäffner (Menlopark), 8 Marko Kok (Waterkloof), 7 Queenton Mcube (Pretoria Boys High), 6 Wandile Mbatha (St Alban’s College), 5 Martin van Niekerk (Affies), 4 JJ Fourie (Garsfontein), 3 Hannes Nagel (Affies), 2 Charl Els (Affies), 1 Eshile Mhlango (HeronBridge). Replacements: 16 Obakeng Rametsi (St Alban’s College), 17 Morne Coetzer (Garsfontein), 18 Lindokuhle Ndandwe (HeronBridge), 19 Banele Mashaba (Pretoria Boys High), 20 Estiaan Marx (Affies), 21 Khumo Manakana (Affies), 22 Petrus de Bruyn (Affies)), 23 Bladen Peterson (Menlopark).

6 Affies | 3 Menlopark | 2 Pretoria Boys High | St Alban’s College | 2 HeronBridge | 2 Garsfontein | 1 Overkruin | 1 Die Wilgers | 1 Zwartkop

Boland: 15 Anwill Jacobs (HTS Drostdy), 14 Leagon Brooks (Worcester Gimnasium), 13 Juandre Adams (Schoonspruit High School), 12 Morne Roos (Montagu), 11 Essien Muller (Porterville), 10 Janco van Deventer (HTS Drostdy), 9 Dlhego Braaf (Robertson High), 8 Brayden Abrahams (Hugenote Wellington), 7 J-Oop van Engelen (HTS Drostdy), 6 Johan Beukes (Overberg), 5 Mychal Swart (Robertson High), 4 Eugene Walker (HTS Drostdy), 3 Henz Jordaan (Porterville), 2 Paul Liebenberg Vredendal), 1 Rowan Nortje (Hermanus). Replacements: 16 Jaydrian van Staden (Robertson High), 17 Leighton du Plessis (Worcester Gimnasium), 18 Christoff Filmalter (Hugenote Wellington), 19 JL Matthee (HTS Drostdy), 20 Khanyiso Owo-Oko, 21 Nicolai Diedericks (Porterville), 22 Clyde Daars (Porterville), 23 Favian Arendse (Overberg).

4 HTS Drostdy | 3 Robertson High | 2 Worcester Gimnasium | 2 Hugenote Wellington | 2 Hoërskool Overberg | 1 Schoonspruit High | 1 Montagu | 1 Hermanus | 1 Hoërskool Vredendal

Border: 15 Mahle Zinto (Hudson Park), 14 Unayo Mzati (Mdibaniso Secondary), 13 Luphumzo Toyo (Dilizintaba Senior Secondary), 12 Lunathi Dolo (Hudson Park), 11 Masibulele Kwahwini (Hudson Park), 10 Inganathi Mnunu (Queen’s College), 9 Chad Weideman (Selborne College), 8 Khaka Xoeseni (Queen’s College), 7 Kamvelihle Sithole (Dale College), 6 Phindokuhle Mdlalana (Hudson Park), 5 Sinethemba Baadjie (Richard Varha High), 4 Kungawo Jaca (Dale College), 3 Azole Sodlaka (Dale College), 2 Lakanya Mbewu (Dale College), 1 Manyano Mpnedu (Hudson Park). Replacements: 16 Josh Pickering (Stirling), 17 Zothando Mrara (Selborne College), 18 Phawu Ludwaba Dale College), 19 Liyabona Mqingwana (Dale College), 20 Connor Maree (Selborne College), 21 Juan Nel (Ooskus Gimnasium), 22 Mivuyo Kongela (Port Rex), 23 Boikaho Mothloti (Queens College).

5 Hudson Park | 5 Dale College | 3 Selborne College | 3 Queens College | 1 Mdibaniso Secondary | 1 Dilizintaba Senior Secondary | 1 Richard Varha High | 1 Stirling | 1 Ooskus Gimnasium

Border Country Districts: 15 Steven Lubowa (Khanyisa High), 14 Legend Abrahams (St John’s College, Mthatha), 13 Ntsika Dubase (St John’s College, Mthatha), 12 Siphesande Mchangayi (Khanyisa High), 11 Simile Gwanzela (Khanyisa High), 10 Ntsika Jele (Khanyisa High), 9 Ogcoba Ngaka (Westbank High), 8 Uyathanda Nogqala (Stutterheim High), 7 Libonga Gotywa (Stutterheim), 6 Mpendulo Malgas (Toise High), 5 Hlumelo Mditshane (St John’s College, Mthatha), 4 Latita Joja (Khanyisa High), 3 Bokang Somhlahlo (Stutterheim High), 2 Liyabonga Khulu (Khanyisa High), 1 Sange Mange (Khanyisa High). Replacements: 16 Blake Clark Stutterheim High), 17 Liqhawe Blayi (Bisho High), 18 Mibo Ntwatwa (Isikhoba High), 19 Akhnya Ndevu (Toise High), 20 Iviwe Ndamse (Umtata High), 21 Chuma Mxamli (Khanyisa High), 22 Sibusiso Ndzayo (Toise High), 23 Siyamthanda Ngubane (Khanyisa High).

7 Khanyisa | 3 Stutterheim High | 3 St John’s College (Mthatha) | 3 Toise High | 1 Westbank High | 1 Bisho High | 1 Isikhoba High | 1 Umtata High

Eastern Province: 15 Leighton Lawrence (Nico Malan), 14 James Mackenzie Kingswood College), 13 Bradley Myburgh (Grey High), 12 Gelden van Niekerk (Nico Malan), 11 Noah Mbizi (Grey High), 10 Bulumko Kilani (Muir College), 9 Oliver Johns (St Andrew’s College), 8 Joshua van Zyl (St Andrew’s College), 7 Chrisjan de Lange (Nico Malan), 6 Luca Nigrini (St Andrew’s College), 5 Chuma Blouw (Muir College), 4 Akho Tonjeni (Graeme College), 3 Sivatho Mjali (St Andrew’s College), 2 Kyle Kendall (Hoërskool Otto du Plessis), 1 Waldo Krige (Nico Malan). Replacements: 16 Athelihle Bonga (Graeme College), 17 Silnde Ntshokoma (Grey High), 18 Sithenkosi Qabaka (Kingswood College), 19 David Matyani (Framesby), 20 Chad Esterhuizen (Hoërskool Otto du Plessis), 21 Gian Steyl (Marlow Landbou), 22 CJ Felkers (Framesby), 23 Wendall Uithaler (Die Brandwag).

4 Nico Malan | 4 St Andrew’s College | 3 Grey High School | 2 Muir College | 2 Kingswood College | 2 Graeme College | 2 Hoërskool Otto du Plessis | 2 Framesby | 1 Marlow Landbou | 1 Die Brandwag (Uitenhage)

Free State: 15 Samson Lackay (Grey College), 14 Benjamin van den Berg (Grey College), 13 Thristan Maree (Grey College), 12 Ruan Roux (Grey College), 11 Vuyisile Titoti (Fichardtpark), 10 Breyton de Wee (Jim Fouché), 9 Bernard Wessels (Grey College), 8 Franco Oberholzer (Jim Fouché), 7 Josh Nelson (Fichardtpark), 6 Henru Erasmus (Grey College), 5 Keaton Pottas (Grey College), 4 Qian Moller (Jim Fouché), 3 Hennie Bredenson (Grey College), 2 Tian Fourie (Grey College), 1 AJ Hendricks (Grey College). Replacements: 16 Motlatsi Ramahlape (HTS Louis Botha), 17 Dumisani Tshabalala (HTS Louis Botha), 18 Hloni Mkhwane (St Andrew’s School), 19 Qhama Saule (Hoërskool Burgersdorp), 20 Motheo Sempe (Grey College), 21 Okuhle Dyani (Hoërskool Burgersdorp), 22 Ayden Cloete (Grey College), 23 Nischaan van der Merwe (Hoërskool Burgersdorp).

12 Grey College | 3 Jim Fouche | 3 Hoërskool Burgersdorp | 2 Fichardtpark | 2 HTS Louis Botha | 1 St Andrew’s School 

Golden Lions:  15 Matthew Hunt (Northcliff), 14 Ndimphiwe Mjiji (Jeppe), 13 Sicelo Sakawuli (Jeppe), 12 Samuel Smith (King Edward VII), 11 Ruan Genis (Monument), 10 Jaydon Viljoen (Monument), 9 Gideon Diedericks (Noordheuwel), 8 Rio Tshimbalanga (Marais Viljoen), 7 Grady Ngui (Jeppe), 6 Andrew Lambert (Noordheuwel), 5 Glodi Tshipamba (Jeppe), 4 Michael Nwogwugwu (Northcliff), 3 Aluwani Ndlovu (Jeppe), 2 Lethoko Mallane (Parktown), 1 Stefan Bezuidenhout (Noordheuwel). Replacements: 16 Jeandre van der Merwe (Helpmekaar Kollege), 17 Manuel Motsi (Parktown), 18 Mako Mandizha (St John’s College), 19 Roehan Hoogendyk (Noordheuwel), 20 Mardosche Katanga (Northcliff), 21 Ryno van der Westhuizen (Monument), 22 Regan McGurk (King Edward VII), 23 Indibabale Mboniswa (King Edward VII).

5 Jeppe High School for Boys | 4 Noordheuwel | 3 Northcliff High School | 3 King Edward VII School | 2 Parktown Boys’ High | 1 Marais Viljoen | 1 Helpmekaar Kollege | 1 St John’s College 

Golden Lions u17 Welpies: 15 Dalitso Milanzi (Jeppe), 14 Josh Wilkinson (KES), 13 Juandré Ehlers (Monument), 12 Kieran Reid (Noordheuwel), 11 Lethabo Mashao (Jeppe), 10 Daniel Soekoe (KES), 9 Luxon Zwane (Jeppe), 8 Mihle Dyakala (Jeppe), 7 Alan Njanfang Putu (St John’s College), 6 Lwellyn Vermaak (Helpmekaar Kollege), 5 Ashton Vreugdenburg (KES), 4 Phillip Rykaart (Randburg), 3 Stephan Botha (Noordheuwel), 2 Mahlatse Memeza (Jeppe), 1 Diadro Botha (Helpmekaar Kollege). Replacements: 16 Siphiosamandosi Cele (St Stithians College), 17 Joshua Hamman (Jeppe), 18 Siya Nkomo (KES), 19 Robert Hurn (Noordheuwel), 20 Siyabonga Ncube (Monument), 21 Jovan Plaatjies (Queens High), 22 Enricho van Coller (Parktown), 23 Francois Tonkin (Helpmekaar Kollege).

6 Jeppe High School For Boys | 4 King Edward VII School | 3 Noordheuwel | 3 Helpmekaar Kollege | 2 Monument | 1 St John’s College | 1 Randburg | 1 St Stithians College | 1 Queens High School | 1 Parktown Boys’ High | 

Griffons: 15 Jadewin Solomons (Welkom Gimnasium), 14 Oteng Khabane (Witteberg), 13 Dylan Titus (Welkom Gimnasium), 12 Adieu Cramford (Witteberg), 11 Darius Job (Trio), 10 Adriaan Bonthuys (Voortrekker), 9 Wessel van Niekerk (Trio), 8 Lyle Afrikaner (Welkom Gimnasium), 7 Lourens Roux (Voortrekker), 6 Wian Muller (Voortrekker), 5 Reagan Krige (Welkom Gimnasium), 4 Hlombe Mamani (Welkom Gimnasium), 3 Moropa Lephondo (Voortrekker), 2 Wessel Hattingh (Voortrekker), 1 Cade Swanepoel (Trio). Replacements: 16 Hanco Geel (Trio), 17 Jahnru van Rensburg (Trio), 18 Jacques Barendse (Welkom Gimnasium), 19 Franco De Wet (Trio), 20 Attila Ozturk Voortrekker), 21 Adrian Kirchner (Witteberg), 22 Tyron Adams (Trio), 23 Jayden Windvogel (Trio).

8 Trio | 6 Welkom Gimnasium | 6 Voortrekker | 3 Witteberg 

Griquas: 15 Luiz Isaaks (Upington High), 14 Cheslin Ruiter (Duineveld)), 13 Amiel Soudiens (Namakwaland), 12 Stephan Ludik (Curro Kathu), 11 Frederick van Brederode (Duineveld), 10 JG van Heerden (Diamantveld), 9 Hlompo Rooibaadjie (Curro Kathu), 8 Motheo Motsisi (Curro Kathu), 7 Rico Deysel (Hoërskool Hartswater), 6 Azingce Mphawuli (Upington High), 5 Dohan Dege (Duineveld), 4 Conrelius Olwagen (Kalahari), 3 Sivuyise Mazosiwe Hoërskool Noord-Kaap), 2 Juvan Stander (Upington High), 1 Bernard Daniels (Diamantveld). Replacements: 16 Conrelius Nortje (Upington High), 17 C-Jay Meiring (Diamantveld), 18 Othandwayo Zweni (Curro Kathu), 19 Hennie Swanepoel (Diamantveld), 20 Johannes Flemming (Kalahari), 21 Thabo Thole (Diamantveld), 22 Dalindyebo Gubula (Upington High), 23 Kitso Lephoi (Hoërskool Noord-Kaap).

5 Upington High School | 5 Diamantveld | 4 Curro Kathu | 3 Duineveld | 2 Kalahari | 2 Hoërskool Noord-Kaap | 1 Namakwaland | 1 Hoërskool Hartswater 

Leopards: 15 Antonio Pullen (Hoërskool Arcadia), 14 Tyran Masango (Hoërskool Klerksdorp), 13 Lethabo Rebanone (Potchefstroom Volkskool), 12 Luan Snyman (Lichtenburg)), 11 Mathlogondo Gitso (Hoërskool Wolmaransstad), 10 Wian du Preez (Wesvalia), 9 Juhan Geldenhuys (Potchefstroom Volkskool), 8 Letlotlo Tobosi (Wesvalia), 7 Tshepaone Majoafi (HTS Klerksdorp), 6 Wian Vieter (Potchefstroom Volkskool), 5 Evan van Heerden (Hoërskool Rustenburg), 4 Joshua van der Westhuizen (Potchefstroom Volkskool), 3 Suwaiden Williams (Schoonspruit), 2 Louis Fourie (Potchefstroom Volkskool), 1 Deacon Sachery (Wesvalia). Replacements: 16 Hanro Nel (Hoërskool Klerksdorp), 17 Marnus Dercksen (Bergsig Akademie), 18 Ugnus Nel (Wesvalia), 19 Omphile Aplane (Wesvalia), 20 Tlhaledo Thobedi (Hoërskool Wolmaransstad), 21 Ralston Wilson (Hoërskool Klerksdorp), 22 Katleho Seimelo (Hoërskool Vryburg), 23 Marques Jantjies (Hoërskool Klerksdorp).

5 Potchefstroom Volkskool | 5 Wesvalia | 4 Hoërskool Klerksdorp | 2 Hoërskool Wolmaransstad | 1 Hoërskool Arcadia | 1 HTS Klerksdorp | 1 Hoërskool Rustenburg | 1 Bergsig Akademie | 1 Schoonspruit | 1 Hoërskool Vryburg 

Limpopo Blue Bulls: 15 Mokibelo Matlhabaseletsi (Tom Naude), 14 Elvis Manokoane (Tom Naude), 13 Boitumelo Makgaba (Curro Heuwelkruin), 12 Mahlatse Kekana (Tom Naude), 11 Tebogo Maphologela (Hans Strijdom), 10 Juan Randall (Pietersburg), 9 Jayden Enslin (Hans Strijdom), 8 Ignus Ferreira (Pietersburg), 7 Henco Venter (Pietersburg), 6 Thapelo Monyane (Frikkie Meyer), 5 Brent Vorster (Pietersburg), 4 Shane Mmola (Frans du Toit), 3 Khathutshelo Sikhwetha (Ben Vorster), 2 Khatu Sikhwetha (Tom Naude), 1 Jan-Hendrik Moulder (Pietersburg). Replacements: 16 Dean Windell (Pietersburg), 17 Lourens Pieterse (Frikkie Meyer), 18 Pieter Erasmus (Frans du Toit), 19 Daniel Leahy (Ellisras), 20 Lefa Motlhabane (Frikkie Meyer), 21 Joe Cloete (Ben Viljoen), 22 Reabetswe Senyolo (Ellisras), 23 Leeroy Alexander (Ben Viljoen).

6 Hoërskool Pietersburg | 4 Tom Naude | 3 Frikkie Meyer | 2 Hans Strijdom | 2 Frans du Toit | 2 Ellisras | 2 Ben Viljoen | 1 Curro Heuwelkruin | 1 Ben Vorster

LSEN XV: 15 Rhalton Rhode (Western Province), 14 Rylan Hawkins (Eastern Province), 13 Marcos Lubaco (Western Province), 12 Uvera Adams (Eastern Province), 11 Najmee Hajie (Boland), 10 Yusuf Hannibal (Western Province), 9 Gavin Armoed (Eastern Province), 8 Jordan Derrocks (Eastern Province), 7 Chandley Jacobs (Western Province), 6 Shaundre Pienaar (Eastern Province), 5 Rigen Chigosie (Valke), 4 Rajh Felix (Eastern Province), 3 Lucano Byleveldt (Eastern Province), 2 Jean McEwan (Western Province), 1 Lzam Allen (Western Province). Replacements: 16 Andre Barnard (Eastern Province), 17 Liza Tetane (Eastern Province), 18 Ayema Mbotya (Eastern Province), 19 Kaydon Kerspuy (Eastern Province), 20 Siya Mangalz (Western Province), 21 Ecario Forbes (Eastern Province), 22 Thinus van Willing (Valke), 23 Zaynodeen Bennie (Eastern Province).

13 Eastern Province | 7 Western Province | 2 Valke | 1 Boland

Namibia: 15 William Beukes (Windhoek High), 14 Ethan Sinden (Windhoek High), 13 FJ Fourie (Tsumeb Gymnasium), 12 JD Jankowitz (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 11 Ruan Brand (Moria Private School), 10 MC van Wyk (Windhoek High), 9 Dirkie Lochner (Keetmanshoop Private School), 8 Russel Barlett (Tsumeb Gimnasium), 7 Jaco-Collin Labuschagne (Pro-Ed Academy), 6 Pieter-Jan Strydom (Windhoek High), 5 Vincent Scholtz (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 4 Buhlem Oelofsen (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 3 Gert Pretorius (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 2 Tiaan van der Westhuizen (Walvisbay Private School), 1 Jurick van der Berg (Tsumeb Gimnasium). Replacements: 16 Jayvin du Plessis (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 17 Rudolf Harmse (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 18 Cashton Cloete (Windhoek High)), 19 Isaiah Kazondovi (Curro Windhoek Gimnasium), 20 Keyo Kruger (Moria Private School), 21 Dederick Louw (Moria Private School), 22 Frederick Engelbrecht (Moria Private School), 23 Alvandro Diergaardt (Pro-Ed Academy).

7 Curro Windhoek Gimnasium | 5 Windhoek High | 4 Moria Private School | 3 Tsumeb Gimnasium | 2 Pro-Ed Academy | 1 Keetmanshoop Private School | 1 Walvisbay Private School 

Pumas: 15 WJ Enslin (HTS Middelburg), 14 Lesego Rakale (Hoërskool Middelburg), 13 Lethi Ngwenya (Ligbron Akademie), 12 Bismarck Jansen (Hoërskool Secunda), 11 Siboniso Mahlangu (Hoërskool Middelburg), 10 John Duncan (Hoërskool Nelspruit), 9 Alonzo Blakenberg (Hoërskool Secunda), 8 Hencoe Janse van Rensburg (Hoërskool Middelburg), 7 Andre Smit (Hoërskool Nelspruit), 6 Melokuhle Xulu (Hoërskool Piet Retief), 5 Sean Nekhavhambe (Curro Nelspruit), 4 Ethan Esterhuizen (Hoërskool Nelspruit), 3 Marius Vosloo (Hoërskool Secunda), 2 Hanro Terblanche (HTS Middelburg), 1 Rico Schoeman (Hoërskool Secunda). Replacements: 16 Seabi Ramodike (Hoërskool Lydenburg), 17 Wayne Mitchell Hoërskool (Piet Retief), 18 Dewald du Toit (Hoërskool Middelburg), 19 Zanempilo Mahlangu (Hoërskool Middelburg), 20 Werno Heyns (Hoërskool Nelspruit), 21 Kamo Monkwe (Hoërskool Nelspruit), 22 Buhle Mphahlaza (Hoërskool Piet Retief), 23 Kwanele Mkhiza (HTS Middelburg).

5 Hoërskool Middelburg | 4 Hoërskool Secunda | 4 Hoërskool Nelspruit | 3 HTS Middelburg | 2 Hoërskool Piet Retief | 1 Curro Nelspruit | 1 Hoërskool Lydenburg

Sharks: 15 Luxolo Sonkonokono (Westville Boys’ High), 14 Amogelang Mataboge (Durban High School), 13 Milisuthando George (Durban High School), 12 Olwethu Kosani (Maritzburg College), 11 Lwandle Mkhize (Kearsney College), 10 Cilermo Carolus (Durban High School), 9 Johannes van der Walt (Northwood), 8 Nhlanhla Ndlovu (Kearsney College), 7 Zion Joel (Durban High School), 6 Rory Stanton (Maritzburg College), 5 Andrew Schnell (Hilton College), 4 Sambesiwe Ndamase (Glenwood), 3 Omphile Kola (Durban High School), 2 Theodorus Boshoff (Maritzburg College), 1 Sibusiso Hlongwa (Westville Boys High). Replacements: 16 Duhan du Plessis (Durban High School), 17 Likho Khoza (Durban High School), 18 Janco Visagie (Northwood), 19 Daniel Fwita (Durban High School), 20 Ambesiwe Sipango (Durban High School), 21 Iwan Slabbert (Durban High School), 22 Keanu Williamson (Kearsney College), 23 Lwazi Mbebe (Kearsney College).

9 Durban High School | 4 Kearsney College | 3 Maritzburg College | 2 Westville Boys’ High | 2 Northwood | 1 Hilton College | 1 Glenwood 

South Western Districts: 15 Hayeden Luiters (Outeniqua), 14 Ruzano Stander (HTS Eden), 13 Farrel Dido (Langenhoven Gimnasium), 12 André van der Merwe (Oakdale Landbou), 11 Wayne Ganniwa (Okadale Landbou), 10 Charles Vosloo (Oakdale Landbou), 9 Cee-Jay Arends (Outeniqua), 8 Henru Neill (Outeniqua), 7 Jordan Kannemeyer (Soa Brass Secondary), 6 Sirr Lourens (Outeniqua), 5 Liam van den Berg (Oakdale Landbou), 4 Jean Coetzee (Oakdale Landbou), 3 Zivan Grobelaar (Oakdale Landbou), 2 Adrian Smith (Oakdale Landbou), 1 Kyle Burger (Oakdale Landbou). Replacements: 16 Ethan Kiewiet (HTS Eden), 17 Jaydee Jansen (Hoërskool Punt), 18 Zacary Meyer (Outeniqua), 19 Samuel Augustyn (Outeniqua), 20 Kane du Plessis (Oakdale Landbou), 21 Caleb Williams (Oakdale Landbou), 22 Camdin van Rooyen (York High School), 23 Grante Savage (Outeniqua).

10 Oakdale Landbou | 6 Outeniqua | 2 HTS Eden | 1 Soa Brass Secondary | 1 Hoërskool Punt | 1 York High School 

Valke: 15 King Agbanzo (Jeugland), 14 Musa Mahlangu (Hugenote), 13 Dylan Jordaan (Oosterlig), 12 Duwayne Zeekoei (EG Jansen), 11 Andile Mienga (Hoërskool Sasolburg), 10 Luka Pretorius (Dr. Malan), 9 Jason Coetzer (Brandwag), 8 Luke Joubert, 7 Craig Lightfoot (EG Jansen), 6 Luyanda Ntlebi, 5 Luca du Plooy, 4 Liyema Mtshweni (Benoni High), 3 Junior Ngwenya (Brandwag), 2 Wihandré Kruger (Transvalia), 1 Branden Sauerman (Die Anker). Replacements: 16 Lwazi Molotja (Jeugland), 17 Reuben Bothma (Heidelberg Volkskool), 18 Gerhard Rossouw (Transvalia), 19 Rulani Ndimande (Jeugland), 20 Themba Mbele (Hoërskool Sasolburg), 21 Koketso Maphopha (Jeugland), 22 Liam Hector (EG Jansen).

4 Jeugland | 3 EG Jansen | 2 Brandwag (Benoni) | 2 Transvalia | 2 Hoërskool Sasolburg | 1 Die Anker | 1 Dr. Malan | 1 Oosterlig | 1 Benoni High | 1 Hugenote (Springs) | 1 Heidelberg Volkskool 

Western Province: 15 Chadlin Sellidon (Milnerton), 14 Tiaan Basson (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 13 Matt Kleyn (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 12 Ashley Grootboom (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 11 Caleb Bell (Rondebosch Boys’ High)), 10 Francois van der Merwe (Paarl Boys’ High), 9 Liam de Silva (Paul Roos Gymnasium), 8 Thandolwethu Sithole (SACS), 7 Luke Kent (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 6 Wege van Zyl (Paarl Boys’ High), 5 Jean Dreyer (Paarl Gimnasium), 4 Lupo Makhohliso (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 3 Gerrit van Vuuren (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 2 Sango Zangqa (SACS), 1 Zack Hickman (Paul Roos Gimnasium). Replacements: 16 Devin Ambrose (Milnerton), 17 Qawe Sawuka (SACS), 18 Qiraan Hermans (SACS), 19 Reuben Winter (Paul Roos Gimnasium), 20 Gabriel Alfred (Paarl Boys’ High), 21 Josh le Roux (Paarl Boys’ High), 22 Harry Soboil (Rondebosch Boys’ High), 23 Eathon Williams (Rondebosch Boys’ High).

7 Paul Roos Gimnasium | 4 Paarl Boys’ High | 4 SACS | 3 Rondebosch Boys’ High | 2 Milnerton | 1 Paarl Gimnasium 

Zimbabwe: 15 Rukudzo Mayida, 14 Mufaro Ndoro, 13 Connor Lovatt, 12 Mazvita Sithole, 11 Lee Chigumba, 10 Denzel Dhave, 9 Divine Hamilton, 8 Tavonga Chirisa, 7 Tapiwanashe Majuru, 6 Samuel Nduku, 5 Milton Mukurunyorowa, 4 Iphile Chigiji, 3 Nyasha Kindu, 2 Julian Nyikavaranda, 1 Tyler Chinyadza. Replacements: 16 Sean Takaindisa, 17 Bongani Msipa, 18 Tafara Chirambanegomo, 19 Takudzwa Cheza, 20 James Thompson, 21 Thembinkosi Sibanda, 22 Curtis Mashonganyika, 23 James Manning, 24 Zane Sibanda, 25 Ethan Fouché, 26 Joshua Green.