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Junior Boks reshuffle as Australia challenge looms

Adnaan MohamedNews, Preview, RugbyLeave a Comment on Junior Boks reshuffle as Australia challenge looms
By Adnaan Mohamed

Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote has made measured changes to his match-23 for Sunday’s U20 Rugby Championship clash against Australia at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Kick-off is at 16h10, with New Zealand facing Argentina earlier at 14h00.

The South Africans were convincing in their opening win over Argentina and Foote has largely kept faith with that combination, making a single change to the starting pack. Wasi Vyambwera comes in at blindside flank, adding fresh energy to a forward unit that laid a strong platform in the tournament opener.

The backline sees two adjustments, with Khuthadzo Rasivhaga starting on the left wing and Akahluwa Boqwana selected at fullback. Both players will be expected to add attacking edge against an Australian side known for its skill and tempo.

On the bench, Luan van der Berg replaces the injured Kai Pratt, while Gert Kemp and Jade Muller come into the matchday squad to provide loose forward and backline cover.

Foote said the team had taken valuable lessons from their opening performance.

“We had a really good review of our performance against Argentina and, while we are very pleased with the result and the way the players performed on defence and attack for long periods of the match, there are obviously aspects of our game that need improvement,” he said.

The coach stressed the need for consistency across the full match.

“Our focus is playing the full 80 minutes and ensuring that we stay on our game model to meet what will be a huge challenge against an Australian side that is well coached and who boasts strong skill sets across the park.”

The Junior Boks will again run out in front of a passionate Eastern Cape crowd after a strong turnout in the opening round.

“The support we received against Argentina last week was absolutely fantastic, and we are excited to be playing in front of the passionate Eastern Cape rugby fans once again,” Foote said.

South Africa will look to build on their early momentum, with execution and discipline expected to be key against a well-organised Australian outfit.

Junior Springboks:
15 Akahluwa Boqwana, 14 Jack Benade, 13 Samuel Badenhorst, 12 Ethan Adams, 11 Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendré Schoeman, 8 Kebotile Maake, 7 Wasi Vyambwera, 6 Luke Canon, 5 Riley Norton (captain), 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Liam van Wyk, 1 Rambo Kubheka

Replacements:
16 Mahle Sithole, 17 Oliver Reid, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 JD Hattingh, 20 Gert Kemp, 21 Jayden Brits, 22 Vusi Moyo, 23 Jade Muller

Photo Credits: x.com/SAJuniorRugby

Shortest Comrades Up Run could boost Gerda Steyn’s R2m bid

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Comrades Marathon will be run over the shortest Up Run distance in recent history, a development that could significantly favour multiple champion Gerda Steyn as she targets both victory and a lucrative payday.

Race organisers have confirmed that the 99th edition, scheduled for Sunday, 14 June, will cover 85.777km from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. The distance is 133 metres shorter than the 2024 Up Run and nearly a kilometre shorter than the 2019 route.

In an event where pacing and energy management are decisive, even marginal reductions in distance can influence outcomes at the elite level. For Steyn, who has dominated the women’s race in recent years, the shorter course presents an opportunity to push the pace from early on while still maintaining control in the closing stages.

The adjusted route comes amid ongoing infrastructure developments along the traditional course. Comrades Marathon Race Director Sue Forge said organisers had worked closely with authorities to finalise a safer and more efficient layout.

“The ongoing roadworks have had a significant impact on the route and our planning. However, thanks to the outstanding collaboration and support of the municipalities, the Road Traffic Inspectorate, Durban Metro Police and Msunduzi Traffic Police, we have been able to finalise a route that not only provides a slightly shorter distance for runners, but also improves the management of road closures, traffic flow, infrastructure removal and post-race clean-up,” Forge said.

While the start in Durban and finish at Scottsville Racecourse remain unchanged from 2024, several key adjustments have reduced the overall distance.

“We have changed the set-up of the finish at Scottsville and shortened the finish straight, while out on the route, the biggest change is that from 45th Cutting to Cowies Hill, where runners will move in a contra-flow direction. This means they will run on the other side of the road to previous years, against the normal traffic direction, which will also reduce the gradient of that section slightly,” Forge explained.

“Meanwhile, we have retained the Umlaas Road cut-through, working closely with SANRAL and the appointed contractors to remove a 12-metre section of the new roadside barriers and surface the area, enabling runners to cross directly. This adjustment will once again save runners approximately 870 metres,” she added.

The official route measurement was completed on 25 and 26 April under the supervision of World Athletics-accredited measurer Mike Rooke, using a calibrated bicycle to ensure accuracy.

Historically, comparisons with earlier races remain difficult. Before 1969, distances were recorded in miles and often estimated, with the Up Run generally listed at around 54 miles, or approximately 86.886km.

Despite that uncertainty, the 2026 race is widely regarded as the shortest modern Up Run, a factor that could have implications for record attempts.

Steyn already holds the women’s Up Run best time after clocking 5:49:46 in 2024, becoming the first woman to break six hours on the route. With performance incentives linked to both time and pace, she stands to earn a substantial bonus if she improves on that mark.

“With the shortest route on record for the Up Run being run this year, coupled with lucrative cash incentives for runners to chase the best time and best pace records, we may see those records fall again in 2026,” said Forge.

The men’s Up Run record of 5:24:49, set by Leonid Shvetsov in 2008, has also come under increasing pressure in recent years.

All indications point to a faster race in 2026, with the revised route likely to encourage aggressive strategies from the leading contenders. For Steyn, the combination of form, experience and course conditions could place her firmly on track for another dominant performance.

Faith Cherono targets sub 30 personal best in Cape Town 10K

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Kenya’s Faith Cherono will line up at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on 10 May with a clear objective, to test her limits against the clock on one of the country’s fastest courses.

The 27-year-old made a strong impression on her South African debut at the Gqeberha leg of the series in March, finishing second in 30:44, the second fastest time of her career.

“It was a good experience and a nice event,” Cherono said. “I was happy to join South African athletes and also athletes from all around the world. I felt at home – welcomed, supported.”

Her performance in Gqeberha confirmed her form early in the season and placed her among the leading contenders for the Cape Town race, where a deep elite field is expected.

Cherono indicated that her preparations have progressed without disruption in the build-up to the race.

“Training is going well. No issues. I am motivated and building one brick at the time. I will miss Brenda, who is very strong. So I hope to have other strong competitors to help and share the load.”

Her training partner and compatriot Brenda Jepchirchir, who won in Gqeberha, will not compete in Cape Town. That absence could leave Cherono to take on a more prominent role in dictating the pace.

Despite the competitive field, Cherono’s primary focus remains on achieving a fast time rather than racing for position.

“I am aiming to run a PB and will do my best to push to the limit,” she said. “I am more interested in running a fast time than trying to win the race or make the podium. My plan is to focus on the time and I’m willing to take the risk.”

Cherono holds a lifetime best of 30:06, and a performance below that mark would not only represent a personal milestone but could also place her within reach of the South African All-Comers record. A sub-30-minute performance, while ambitious, would mark a significant achievement on the African continent.

Race organiser Michael Meyer welcomed Cherono’s return, noting the importance of attracting international athletes of her calibre.

“We are excited to welcome Faith Cherono to the start line of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” Meyer said. “Her entry adds real depth and international quality to the women’s field and further strengthens what is shaping up to be a world-class race in the Mother City.”

The race will start on Marine Drive in Milnerton and finish in the Cape Town CBD, with conditions traditionally favourable for fast times.

With a competitive field assembled and pacing likely to be aggressive from the outset, attention will centre on whether Cherono can convert her intent into a breakthrough performance.

Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

For the friend they lost, the body that survived, and the finish line they reached

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Whatever you’re running for, nothing should stop you

Eighty-nine kilometres. Twelve hours.

On paper, it’s a test of endurance. In reality, it’s something far deeper. Because what defines a journey like this isn’t the distance – it’s the reason someone keeps going when their body is ready to stop.

And somewhere along the way, every runner is forced to answer a deeply personal question: What are you running for?

Every June, thousands of South Africans answer that question with their feet. Before dawn, they gather on the streets of Durban or Pietermaritzburg, stepping into a race that will test far more than physical strength.

They will blister, cramp, and question every decision that brought them there. And yet, most will cross the finish line – sometimes with minutes to spare, sometimes on hands and knees, already thinking about next year.

No rational explanation fully captures it. But a human one does.

They are running for the mother who gave everything and never asked for anything back. For the body that survived what it wasn’t meant to. For the coach who refused to let them quit. For the friend they lost. For the version of themselves they are still chasing.

Ask any runner what they are running for, and the race quickly becomes something else entirely. Beneath the surface is a story that belongs to all of us. A story of endurance, resilience, overcoming and triumph. Not stopping when everything screamed stop.

A race you don’t run alone

Because while the road is personal, it is never walked alone.

At 5am, long before race day, a runner presses start on a training app in the dark. Somewhere else, someone checks in to make sure they made it home safely.

On race day, that connection becomes something more.

  • A message at just the right moment.

  • A voice note that lands when the body is ready to give in.

  • A support crew tracking every kilometre, willing them forward from a distance.

For families, friends, and spectators, the race unfolds in real time, refreshed on phones, shared across conversations. The journey extends far beyond the road itself.

These moments don’t feel like technology. They feel like presence, and Cell C has the privilege of enabling the connections that matter most.

Not just on race day, but in every early morning training run, every check-in, every message of support, every moment that keeps people moving forward.

Because while purpose carries runners forward, connection is what keeps them going. It’s more than about technology – greater is what it enables, the connection to the support from family and friends – the tribe that helps them power forward.

A brand that knows the road

Cell C arrives at the 2026 Comrades having run its own race.

Over the past few years, the company has navigated one of the most demanding turnarounds in South African business, rebuilding, reshaping, and emerging with a clearer sense of purpose. Its listing on the JSE in November 2025 was not a finish line, but the start of a new chapter.

It’s a journey defined by resilience – by asking hard questions and continuing forward when stopping would have been easier.

That shared understanding is what grounds its presence at the Comrades Marathon, as the official partner of the Ultimate Human Race since 2024. 

Everyone has a reason

This is what the campaign brings to life – the stories that often go unseen.

  • The first-time runner proving something to themselves.

  • The comeback after injury, illness, or loss.

  • The 58-year-old honouring a father who never finished.

  • The woman who kept training through treatment because the road gave her something nothing else could.

These stories are not extraordinary because they are rare. They are extraordinary because they are shared.

Nothing should stop you

Because somewhere along those 89 kilometres, every runner answers the same question: what are you running for?

While the race may be measured in distance and time, it is purpose that carries people to the finish line  and connection that keeps them moving when it matters most.

Cell C’s message to every runner, every supporter, and every South African watching is simple:

Whatever your reason, whatever your road #NothingShouldStopYou #SkaFelaMoya

The 2026 Comrades Marathon takes place on 14 June 2026. Cell C is the proud official partner of the Comrades Marathon Association since 2024. Visit cellc.co.za for more information.

RMB targets untapped Trail Running market with UTD strategy

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By Matshelane Mamabolo

RMB is betting on the road less travelled and in South Africa’s evolving sports economy, that may prove to be a calculated advantage.

While most major sponsors continue to pour resources into rugby, cricket and football, the bank has turned its attention to trail running, a fast-growing but still under-commercialised discipline. At the centre of that strategy is the RMB Ultra-Trail Drakensberg (UTD), now in its second year under RMB’s title sponsorship.

The move reflects a deliberate attempt to enter a space where visibility is easier to secure and long-term influence more attainable.

“We saw an opportunity where there wasn’t significant investment in a rapidly growing sport,” RMB Sponsorship Marketing Lead Michael Edwards said. “Globally, trail running is expanding commercially, but in South Africa, participation growth is even more striking.”

That growth, reportedly in the triple digits locally, has shifted trail running from the margins toward the mainstream. Unlike traditional codes, where sponsorship inventory is crowded and returns are often diluted, trail running offers what Edwards describes as a “blanker canvas”.

“In traditional sports, there’s already a lot of investment. The opportunity to truly shift the needle is smaller,” he said. “With trail running, we saw a chance to make a big impact from the outset.”

Early indicators suggest that impact is materialising.

At UTD, increased prize money has strengthened the elite field, drawing international competitors, while the addition of a 14km race has widened participation at entry level. The strategy is two-pronged: elevate the top end while simultaneously growing the base.

“We’re not just focusing on elite athletes,” Edwards said. “We’re equally invested in bringing new runners into the sport and giving them something to aspire to.”

Yet the commercial case extends beyond participation metrics.

Trail running’s defining asset is its environment which is a factor that fundamentally reshapes how events are experienced and marketed.

“The mountain is the stadium,” Edwards said. “And that changes everything.”

UTD spans more than 160 kilometres of rugged terrain within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, positioning the event at the intersection of sport, tourism and environmental stewardship. That alignment allows RMB to anchor its sponsorship in something more tangible than branding alone.

“We’re not just investing in an event,” Edwards said. “We’re investing in the preservation of the landscapes that make the sport possible.”

That includes ongoing trail maintenance, a largely invisible but essential component of the ecosystem that supports both competitive racing and recreational use throughout the year.

RMB’s broader trail running portfolio, which also includes Ultra-Trail Cape Town, is built around three pillars: growth, impact and brand alignment. The choice of discipline is not incidental.

“It’s about grit, discipline and long-term commitment,” Edwards said. “You don’t arrive at the finish line without putting in years of work. That resonates strongly with us as a brand.”

The emphasis on authenticity speaks to a wider shift in the sponsorship landscape, where audiences are increasingly sceptical of superficial partnerships that lack depth or continuity.

RMB’s response has been to adopt a long-term horizon.

“We don’t believe in coming in, making noise, and leaving,” Edwards said. “Sustainable partnerships are where you see real value, for the event, for the community, and for the brand.”

The risk, however, lies in whether trail running can sustain its current growth trajectory and translate participation into consistent commercial returns. For now, momentum appears to be on RMB’s side.

If that trend holds, the bank’s early move into the sector could position it ahead of competitors in a space that is only beginning to attract serious investment.

In a saturated sports market, RMB has chosen endurance over immediacy and in trail running, that may be the point.

Photo Credits: Courtesy RMB Ultra-Trail Drakensberg

WATCH | Sebastian Sawe speaks after historic sub-2 hour record rout at London Marathon

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on WATCH | Sebastian Sawe speaks after historic sub-2 hour record rout at London Marathon
By Adnaan Mohamed

The marathon’s ultimate barrier finally cracked on Sunday as Sabastian Sawe produced a run for the ages to win the London Marathon 2026 in a scarcely believable 1:59:30.

On a cool spring morning that quickly turned electric, the 30-year-old Kenyan sliced through 42.195km with ruthless precision to become the first athlete to go under two hours in a certified race.

Sawe’s time obliterated the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023, lowering it by a staggering 65 seconds in what will be remembered as a seismic moment in road running.

“I am feeling good, I am so happy,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “It is a day to remember.

“We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember the Ethiopian was so competitive. I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time, I was so excited.

“Today showed me there is time for everyone. I am so happy. I was well prepared. Coming to London for the second time was important to me.

“I want to thank the crowd for cheering for us. I think they had a lot for me because I feel so happy and strong and [was] pushing. What happened today was not for me alone, but for everyone in London.”

If Sawe’s performance lit the fuse, Yomif Kejelcha poured fuel on the fire.

The Ethiopian, making his marathon debut, clocked 1:59:41 to finish 11 seconds adrift, ensuring that two men broke the mythical two-hour mark in the same race. His relentless presence in the latter stages helped turn the closing kilometres into a high-speed duel against both the clock and convention.

Further back, Jacob Kiplimo underlined the extraordinary pace by finishing third in 2:00:28, a time faster than the previous world record.

Eluid Kipchoge congratulates Sawe and Kejelcha on breaking sub-2 hours in London

The sub-two-hour milestone had long stood as the sport’s holy grail. Eliud Kipchoge dipped below it during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge, though that effortfell outside official record conditions. In London, the barrier gave way under the weight of a competitive race, pending ratification by World Athletics.

Kipchoge, now easing away from elite racing, hailed the breakthrough.

“Today is a historical day for marathon running!” he said.

“Seeing two athletes break the magical 2-hour barrier at London Marathon is the proof that we are just at the beginning of what is possible when talent, progress and an unwavering belief in the human potential come together. My deepest congratulations to both Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha.

“Breaking the sub-two-hour barrier in the marathon has long been a dream for runners everywhere, and today, you’ve made that dream come true.

“During the INEOS 1:59 Challenge we showed the world that it was possible and it has always been my hope to see another athlete continue with this belief and break this magical barrier in a city marathon.

“Let this achievement inspire the next generation and remind everyone in the world that No Human Is Limited.”

Sabastian Sawe storms to 1:59:30 in London, breaking the marathon’s ultimate barrier. Photo: https://x.com/WorldAthletics

Beyond the history, there was also a significant payday. Sawe earned $55,000 for the win, along with a $125,000 world record bonus and a further $150,000 incentive for breaking 2:02, taking his confirmed earnings to around KSh 42.3 million, excluding sponsor deals with brands such as Adidas.

Earlier, the women’s race delivered another record-breaking display as Tigst Assefa successfully defended her title in 2:15:40, trimming 10 seconds off her own world record.

She held off a strong challenge from Hellen Obiri, who finished in 2:15:53, with Joyciline Jepkosgei completing the podium.

With two official sub-two performances on the cards and records tumbling across both races, London 2026 may well be remembered as the day the marathon’s limits were redrawn.

Photo Credits: x.com/WorldAthletics

Stormers surge top of URC after clinical dismantling of Glasgow

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Stormers delivered a ruthless reminder of their championship pedigree, dismantling the Glasgow Warriors 48-12 in a high-octane United Rugby Championship (URC) clash in Cape Town to surge to the top of the standings.

A week ago, after a stuttering home defeat to Connacht, the Stormers looked adrift of the title conversation. A week later, the narrative has flipped completely. As the old sporting cliché goes, momentum can turn in an instant, and here it arrived like a rolling maul with venom.

Roared on by 23,740 fans at Cape Town Stadium, John Dobson’s side produced the cold-blooded performance demanded in the build-up, combining forward muscle with backline incision to overwhelm Franco Smith’s charges.

They burst from the blocks like a backline move off first phase. Loosehead prop Ntuthuko Mchunu crashed over twice inside the opening quarter, each carry a thunderclap at scrum time where the Stormers held a decisive edge. Flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu added a penalty and both conversions to push the hosts into a 17-0 lead after just 15 minutes.

Glasgow refused to be passengers. Wing Ollie Smith capitalised on a rare lapse – sparked by a misjudged attacking kick from Feinberg-Mngomezulu – to score and breathe life into the contest. Hooker Gregor Hiddleston later finished a driving maul, with Adam Hastings converting as the visitors clawed back to 24-12 at the break.

Yet even during that resurgence, the Stormers looked the sharper blade. Their defence held firm, their scrum creaked Glasgow backwards, and their decision-making – bar the odd misfire – was largely on point.

The defining moment of the first half arrived when Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s sleight of hand released Evan Roos, who surged clear for the Stormers’ third try. It was a glimpse of the attacking clarity that had been missing the previous week.

After halftime, the contest tilted decisively. Captain Ruhan Nel powered over after a pinpoint grubber from Feinberg-Mngomezulu, stretching the lead to 34-12. From there, the Stormers tightened their grip like a choke tackle.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu, orchestrating proceedings with poise, marked his 50th appearance with a try of his own before replacement Keke Morabe added the finishing touch. The flyhalf was flawless from the tee, slotting six conversions and two penalties in a 26-point haul that underlined his influence.

There was also a moment for the future, as teenage sensation Markus Muller became the youngest player in franchise history, stepping onto the field to a warm reception.

Glasgow were shut out in the second half, their challenge blunted by a Stormers side that was dominant at the set piece, disciplined on defence and clinical in execution. It was a complete performance – the kind that fuels belief of another title run reminiscent of 2021/22.

Two-try prop Mchunu walked away with Man of the Match honours, but this was a collective statement. The Stormers now hold their playoff destiny in their own hands as they head into their final tour fixtures against Ulster and Cardiff, chasing top spot and home-ground advantage through the knockouts.

Scorers

Stormers 48 (24):
Tries: Ntuthuko Mchunu (2), Evan Roos, Ruhan Nel, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Keke Morabe
Conversions: Feinberg-Mngomezulu (6)
Penalties: Feinberg-Mngomezulu (2)

Glasgow Warriors 12 (12):
Tries: Ollie Smith, Gregor Hiddleston
Conversion: Adam Hastings

Teams

Stormers: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Wandisile Simelane, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Dan du Plessis, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Ruben van Heerden, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Replacements: 16 JJ Kotzé, 17 Oli Kebble, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Marcel Theunissen, 20 Keke Morabe, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Jurie Matthee, 23 Markus Muller.

Glasgow Warriors: 15 Kyle Rowe, 14 Kyle Steyn (captain), 13 Huw Jones, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 11 Ollie Smith, 10 Adam Hastings, 9 Ben Afshar, 8 Jack Dempsey, 7 Angus Fraser, 6 Euan Ferrie, 5 Alex Samuel, 4 Ryan Burke, 3 Zander Fagerson, 2 Gregor Hiddleston, 1 Patrick Schickerling.
Replacements: 16 Johnny Matthews, 17 Nathan McBeth, 18 Sam Talakai, 19 Dylan Cockburn, 20 Jare Oguntibeju, 21 Sione Vailanu, 22 Stafford McDowall, 23 Jack Oliver.

Photo Credits: x.com/THESTORMERS

‘The Chef’ Yaqeen Ahmed set to cook as Junior Boks brace for Argentina test

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Junior Springboks will look to light the first fire of their Under-20 Rugby Championship campaign when they face Argentina in Gqeberha on Monday, with flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed expected to play a central role in shaping South Africa’s attacking edge.

Ahmed, known to many as “The Chef”, has earned a reputation for stirring defences with a blend of vision, timing and composure. The former Wynberg Boys’ High playmaker, now aligned with the Stormers, steps into the No 10 jersey with the responsibility of directing traffic against a Los Pumitas side known for its physical edge and structured set piece.

Kick-off at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is scheduled for 16h10, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport.

Captain Riley Norton leads a side that combines continuity with emerging talent. Norton, who skippered the Junior Boks to World Championship success in Italy last year, anchors the pack alongside lock partner Heinrich Theron, while the front row of Rambo Kubheka, Liam van Wyk and Danie Kruger is tasked with providing a stable platform.

In the backline, Ahmed will link with scrumhalf Hendré Schoeman in a pairing that balances tempo with control. Out wide, Jack Benade is rewarded for his Varsity Cup form, joining Lindsey Jansen on the wings, while Ethan Adams and Samuel Badenhorst combine in midfield.

At fullback, Alzeadon Felix completes a back three that offers both counter-attacking threat and defensive cover.

Junior Bok coach Kevin Foote expects a demanding contest against Argentina, who have consistently tested South Africa at this level.

“They are known for their physicality and their solid set piece, so we know we will have to steady ourselves for a very tough contest,” said Foote.

“Our recent contests have been very close – they played exceptionally well against us in this tournament last year, and we had to dig very deep to overcome them in the semi-final of the World Championship last year in Italy.”

The breakdown is likely to be a key battleground, with loose forwards Luke Canon, Kebotile Maake and Thomas Beling carrying the responsibility of slowing Argentina’s momentum while securing quality possession.

Foote indicated that the tempo of the match could be high, in line with the approach favoured by southern hemisphere teams.

“Argentina, like the other southern hemisphere sides, prefer a high-tempo game with plenty of ball in play,” he said.

“They are a battle-hardened, tenacious outfit, and we will have to work extremely hard throughout the contest if we want to impose ourselves.

“Our DNA is our physicality, and we are looking forward to playing an exciting brand of rugby.”

South Africa will be without a handful of players due to injury and senior commitments, though the squad retains depth. Vusi Moyo returns from injury and is expected to provide cover at flyhalf from the bench, while Oliver Reid adds experience in the front row.

Earlier on Monday, Australia and New Zealand will open the tournament, which features the leading Under-20 sides from the southern hemisphere.

For the Junior Boks, the focus will be on execution and control. If the forwards establish a foothold, Ahmed’s ability to read space and manage territory could prove decisive in setting the tone for the campaign.

Junior Springboks team vs Argentina U20

Starting XV
15. Alzeadon Felix, 14. Jack Benade, 13. Samuel Badenhorst, 12. Ethan Adams, 11. Lindsey Jansen, 10. Yaqeen Ahmed, 9. Hendré Schoeman, 8. Kebotile Maake, 7. Thomas Beling, 6. Luke Canon, 5. Riley Norton (c), 4. Heinrich Theron, 3. Danie Kruger, 2. Liam van Wyk, 1. Rambo Kubheka

Replacements
16. Mahle Sithole, 17. Oliver Reid, 18. Kai Pratt, 19. JD Hattingh, 20. Risima Khosa, 21. Jayden Brits, 22. Vusi Moyo, 23. Khuthadzo Rasivhaga

Lions target playoff boost as Connacht visit Ellis Park

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Adnaan Mohamed

The Fidelity SecureDrive Lions will look to strengthen their push for a Vodacom United Rugby Championship playoff place when they host Irish side Connacht in their Round 16 clash at Ellis Park on Saturday.

With the Race to the Eight entering its decisive phase, every result carries significant weight in the battle for knockout qualification and potential European competition spots. The Johannesburg side return home on the back of encouraging form, having built momentum with an attacking approach that has yielded results in recent weeks.

Connacht, however, arrive with a clear game plan and will be confident of challenging in the Highveld conditions, where accuracy and tempo often prove decisive.

Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen has made four changes to his side, including a positional switch that sees Springbok forward Ruan Venter move into the second row. Batho Hlekani comes into the starting line-up at flank as the hosts look to maintain balance between physicality and mobility.

The match will also mark a significant milestone for hooker PJ Botha, who is set to earn his 100th cap for the franchise.

“When I was still at school, I thought it would be nice to maybe play one or two matches for a franchise in an international competition,” Botha said.

“To now reach 100 is incredible. The time has flown. It’s a privilege for me to reach this milestone, and I’m grateful that it will happen in a home match.”

Botha’s role at the set piece is expected to be key as the Lions aim to establish a solid platform against a Connacht side known for their structured play and attacking intent.

Scrum coach Julian Redelinghuys believes the visitors will pose a similar challenge to one the Lions handled effectively in their previous outing.

“We know what they will bring. We know their game model. It’s not easy to defend or attack against it, but if we do what we need to do well, I am sure there will be opportunities,” he said.

The Lions will again rely on their forward pack to provide momentum, while their backline looks to capitalise on scoring chances. Maintaining the intensity shown in their previous performance will be crucial against a Connacht outfit that thrives on quick ball and spatial awareness.

Morne Brandon returns to the matchday squad and is expected to provide impact off the bench, while Siba Qoma offers additional cover in the second row.

Fidelity SecureDrive Lions Match 23

Starting XV

1. SJ Kotze, 2. PJ Botha (100), 3. Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 4. Ruan Venter, 5. Darrien Landsberg, 6. Siba Mahashe, 7. Batho Hlekani, 8. Francke Horn (captain), 9. Morne van den Berg, 10. Chris Smith, 11. Erich Cronje, 12. Richard Kriel, 13. Henco van Wyk, 14. Angelo Davids, 15. Quan Horn

    Replacements
    16. Morne Brandon, 17. Eddie Davids, 18. Sebastian Lombard, 19. Reinhard Nothnagel, 20. Siba Qoma, 21. JC Pretorius, 22. Nico Steyn, 23. Kelly Mpeku

    Kick-off at Ellis Park is scheduled for 16:00.

    Teenage footballer Emile Witbooi seals major Nike deal

    Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Teenage footballer Emile Witbooi seals major Nike deal
    By Adnaan Mohamed

    Cape Town City teenager Emile Witbooi has taken another step forward in his fast-rising career after securing a partnership with Nike.

    The 17-year-old has signed a boot and apparel agreement that will see him represent the brand on and off the field, further underlining his growing reputation as one of South Africa’s brightest young prospects.

    Witbooi, who has already made history as Cape Town City’s youngest debutant, continues to build an impressive profile. He has also featured prominently for South Africa’s U17 and U20 national teams, showing maturity and technical quality beyond his years.

    The deal was facilitated by Roc Nation Sports International, which represents the attacking midfielder as his career continues to gain momentum.

    “Growing up, I always saw some of the world’s best players wearing Nike, and to now be part of that same legacy is incredibly motivating,” Witbooi said.

    The partnership places him among a group of elite athletes associated with the global brand, known for its influence across football and sport culture.

    Emile Witbooi

    “This partnership is more than just about boots and gear; it’s another significant step in my journey that will help me elevate as an athlete and reach the goals I’ve set for my career,” he added.

    Witbooi’s rise has been steady, with the Cape Town-born player establishing himself as a key figure at youth international level while gaining valuable experience in senior football.

    “I’m grateful to Nike for believing in my potential and to my team at Roc Nation Sports International for making this possible,” he said.

    The agreement signals growing confidence in Witbooi’s future, as he continues to develop into a player with the potential to make a lasting impact both locally and beyond.