Exciting Rugby Matches to Look Out for in Gauteng this Weekend

Rethabile Nyelele2 April , 2025

Gauteng is set to host a series of thrilling rugby matches from 28 to 31 March 2025, featuring university competitions, schoolboy fixtures, and professional games. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a newcomer to the sport, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key games taking place in our province:

1. Varsity Cup and Young Guns Fixtures:

On Monday, 31 March, the Varsity Cup and Young Guns competitions will feature several exciting matches:

16:45: University of Johannesburg (UJ) vs University of Cape Town (UCT)
19:00: Wits University vs Stellenbosch University (Maties)
19:00: North-West University (NWU) Eagles vs Central University of Technology (CUT)
19:00: University of Pretoria (UP Tuks) vs University of the Free State (UFS) Shimlas

These games promise intense competition as teams vie for top positions in their respective divisions.

Young Guns Fixtures:

Prior to the main Varsity Cup matches, the Young Guns competition will showcase emerging talent:

15:00: Stellenbosch University (Maties) vs NWU
15:00: UP Tuks vs Wits University
15:00: UCT vs UFS
15:00: UJ vs CUT

These fixtures offer fans a glimpse of the future stars of South African rugby.

2. Varsity Shield Semifinals:

The Varsity Shield semifinals are scheduled for Friday, 4 April, with the following matchups:

15:00: University of Fort Hare (UFH) vs Nelson Mandela University
17:00: Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) vs Sol Plaatjies University

These games will determine which teams advance to the final, adding to the excitement of the weekend.

3. Schoolboy Rugby Fixture:

Schoolboy rugby remains a cornerstone of Gauteng’s sporting culture. On Saturday, 29 March, a notable fixture is:

Jeppe High School vs King Edward VII School (KES): A classic rivalry that always delivers thrilling rugby.

These matches are a testament to the province’s rich rugby heritage and are not to be missed.

Also read: Springboks’ Jersey Becomes SA’s Most Valuable, Outshining Football and Cricket

4. Women’s Premier Division Final:

On Sunday, 30 March, the Women’s Premier Division Final will feature:

12:00: Bulls Daisies vs DHL Western Province

This match showcases the top women’s teams in the country, highlighting the growth and competitiveness of women’s rugby.

5. Emirates Lions in URC Action:

While not in Gauteng, the Emirates Lions’ match in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) is significant for local fans. On Saturday, 29 March, they face the Glasgow Warriors at 21:35 SA time at Scotstoun Stadium in Glasgow. This match is crucial as both teams vie for playoff positions.

6. Springbok Sevens in Hong Kong:

Although not in Gauteng, the Springbok Sevens team will be competing in the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens over the weekend. They face Uruguay, Australia, and New Zealand in pool play, with matches on 28 and 29 March.

7. Varsity Cup Promotion/Relegation:

On Saturday, 4 April, the Varsity Cup Promotion/Relegation match will take place, determining which team will compete in the Varsity Cup next season.

8. Women’s Premier Division Final:

Also on 4 April, the Women’s Premier Division Final features the Bulls Daisies vs DHL Western Province at 12:00, showcasing the top women’s teams in the country.

Also read: Gauteng Rugby Stadiums: Where the Action Happens for Top Local Teams

This extended weekend offers Gauteng rugby fans a plethora of matches across various competitions. From university semifinals to schoolboy rivalries and professional fixtures, there’s no shortage of action. Be sure to mark your calendars and support your local teams as they strive for victory.