FNB Varsity Cup Players That Impressed – Semi Final

The FNB Varsity Cup 2025 finalists have been decided as rivals FNB UCT Ikeys and FNB Maties are set to lock horns on 14 April. It will be the Ikey’s fourth consecutive final after defeating FNB UP-Tuks 48-35 at Tuks Stadium. FNB Maties earned a hard-fought victory over defending champions FNB UFS Shimlas at the Danie Craven Stadium winning the match 19-7.   

Here is our selection for the FNB Players That Impressed during the semifinals.

Keagan Blanckenberg (FNB UCT)

Power and agility are what Keagan Blanckenberg displayed in the semifinal encounter. The hooker played with intention and good reading of the game the guide his side to a commanding 48-35 win booking their place in the semifinal.

“We had to respect them I mean they’re a good side, don’t give Tuks entries because they have a very dangerous maul. We just kept the ball and kept putting pressure on them helped. I am just happy I helped the team win, I felt I could’ve gone longer but the cramp got me. I saw the nine in front of me and I went on and hoped for the best. We’d love to play anyone in the finals, we are just happy we made it this far.”

He's also been nominated for FNB Forward That Rocks HERE.

Grant De Jager (FNB Maties)

In a game that was always going to be decided by the power play of the forwards it was powerful winger Grant De Jager who was particularly impressive not only with his well taken opportunistic try, but he looked threatening whenever he was in possession. The 2023 Junior Bok scored a crucial try to get the Maroon Machine into the final.

Get tickets to the final HERE.