The Border rugby fraternity is basking in glory and toasting the successes of their Iqhawe and U21 teams, who have been crowned champions in their respective rugby competitions.
Border U21 beat the Pumas 41-38 in the SA Rugby U21 Shield final at White River Rugby Club in Mbombela on Saturday, while the U15 Iqhawe team claimed their title after edging Western Province 14-10 in a pulsating clash that lived up to its billing in a repeat of last year’s final.
In the case of the U15s, it was the first junior championship for the union in more than 30 years, having suffered heartbreaking defeats in two finals, while it was the first triumph for the U21s since the introduction of the Shield tournament.
Scrumhalf Sinalo Jivana, with 118 points, the most in the U21 competition, was named the player of the tournament and Border flyhalf Simbone Siwa was man of the match in the U15 final.
The Iqhawe team creates a pathway for players from small, rural, lower league and non-traditional rugby schools to participate in a tournament equal in stature to the national Craven Week and Grant Khomo Week.
Numerous players have since gone on to play provincial rugby and participated in Varsity Cup rugby.
Border Rugby Union president Zuko Badli said the two victories showed the strength of junior rugby and the incredible potential in the Border region.
He commended the players, coaches, support staff and families.
“This is more than silverware — it’s the rise of Border Rugby,” Badli said.
The Border U21 coaches were Lwazi Zangqa, Onke Dubase and Sabelo Kolanisi, with the team manager Athabile Ngoloyi.
The Iqhawe team was guided by Dubase, Bond Mene, Luvuyo Madliki, Hlela Mbasane, Wandile Ngoma, Ntando Kebe and team manager Maxwell Levine.
“These triumphs are more than just sporting victories; they are symbolic of a region on the rise, united by passion and driven by pride,” Badli said.
“The Border Rugby Union extends its heartfelt congratulations to both teams and looks forward to building on this momentum for future success.
“The U15 victory marked a powerful redemption after a painful loss to the same opponents in the 2024 final.
“The young Border stars showcased exceptional skill, discipline and heart throughout the tournament, culminating in a clinical and passionate display in the final.
“This win is not only a testament to the depth of talent in the region but also to the development structures nurturing the future of Border rugby.
“The Border U21 team claimed the 2025 Currie Cup Shield title after a gruelling playoff journey that included an away semifinal win over Boland and a commanding performance in the final against the Pumas in Mpumalanga.
“Facing back-to-back away matches, the team rose to the challenge with resilience, unity and maturity beyond their years.
“Their success under pressure is a reflection of their commitment and the strength of the Border rugby pathway.”
Daily Dispatch
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.