With the 2025 season of FNB Varsity Shield kicking off we take a look at this seasons players to watch and whose previous performances showcased their potential. Here is our selection for the players we think will be taking it to the next level and play a key role in their teams success.
Frederick Marx (FNB Varsity College)
The Comets had an incredible debut season in 2024 reaching the final on their first attempt and flyhalf Frederick Marx player a huge part in their success. The Glenwood old boy was their top points scorer and was nominated for the Suzuki Rookie of the Year award for his performances.
Kyle Erasmus (FNB Madibaz)
The Madibaz captain and hooker was their top scorer dotting down 8 times during the 2024 campaign. He will no doubt be at the back of the lineout driving mauls with ball in hand, but you can also find him out wide on the overlap.
Siso France (FNB UKZN)
The former Kearsney College boy, who made his home debut in the KZN derby against FNB Varsity College last year had such a big impact for the Impi that he was nominated for Suzuki Rookie of the Year. With more experience and maturity you can expect him to shine in his second season.
Conwill Conradie (FNB UWC)
The UWC scrummie was instrumental in marshalling the team to win the FNB Varsity Shield tournament in 2023. He was also named as the overall FNB Player of the Tournament that year. The Cape side struggled to find form last year in the Cup competition and were relegated, but expect Conradie to play a crucial role in the Shield competition if they are going to lift the trophy once again.
Iwaan Bloys (FNB CPUT)
The big centre has been a stalwart for the Tekkies since 2022 and you can be sure that he will using his speed and strength to break the line when CPUT are on attack and marshall the backline on defence.
Sinalo Jivana (FNB UFH)
The Fort Hare speedster looked promising last season and this year will be starting at flyhalf for the Blues. Look out for him to add pace and vision in the midfield and be on the scoresheet consistently if the Eastern Cape side are live up to expectations.
Zixesha Mangaliso (FNB WSU)
Top try scorer for the WSU All Black last season. The hooker was a force behind the WSU driving maul which they used to great effect to reach the semi-finals. Keep an eye out for Zixesha to0 feature heavily again this year.
We can't wait to see how the season plays out and which players will raise their hands and demand recognition. Get to the games and find who will be the stars of 2025!
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
A Player to watch is utility back NOAH PEKEUR from CPUT