FNB UKZN is one team who need no reminder of why they should perform well in the 2025 Varsity Shield edition. This follows last season’s performance where the men from KwaZulu-Natal found themselves fighting for their lives in the final match of the round-robin stage, as they sought, by all means, to avoid relegation.
FNB UKZN coach, Naseeb Abrahams has spoken confidently that the upcoming season will see a much improved IMPI team as much work has been done behind the scenes.
“The off-season and our preparations have gone very well for us. There’s been a big improvement in terms of the culture we’ve laid with the team,” Abrahams explained.
Having faced several challenges in the past few years such as injuries to key players in moments where they need them, as well as constant adjustments in their management setup, expectations for improved efforts and good results are at an all-time high for FNB UKZN faithfuls.
Despite their performance in past years, FNB UKZN mentor Naseeb Abrahams has made it clear that a top four finish is what the IMPI side are eyeing for this year.
“Top four is a must for us, it’s something that we are building for. We have had talks with the boys in terms of what our goals are, what we want to do and how we want to do it. It’s just about getting the performances done and really stepping up in moments where it matters this year.”
For such high optimism, it is fair to say that FNB UKZN do possess strength and depth in their arsenal, such as players like rookie of the year nominee in the past year, Siso France who give the men from KwaZulu-Natal hopes of achieving their goal of a top four finish.
“We have stabilized as a team. There are challenges as all universities will have challenges and so we are not different, but we are very optimistic for this season. We really believe that when our fans come through they are going to see a much improved team this year, they will see a team worth supporting,” concluded the IMPI Coach.
Provisional squad (subject to change):
Uli Walker, Ntokozo Ngema, Siyanda Dlamini, Lonwabo Nkalitshana, Owethu Mntwelizwe, Siyanda Nyathi, Khanyisani Ncube, Qhawe Nxumalo, Siso France, Jordan Ramsay, Mzwandile Khawula, Lwazi Ngcobo, Micheal Ize-Iyamu, Samkelo Mkhize, Aphelele Dlamini, Amahle Dlamini, Tinotenda Mazhindu, Mthomboyolo Buzani, Sikhona Ndulini, Wela Takata, Nhlankanipho Buthelezi, Zak Smith, Milowo Matebese, Minenhle Ngcamu, Juan-Lee Carolus, Raayke Maartens, Russel Fick, Singele Mkhize, Lwanele Gaba, Solami Sikutshwa, Somanga Jho, Ramutuku Masiteng, Ntobeko Mhlongo, Luthando Mhlongo, Jowan Visagie, Ovayo Jezile, Osman Taariq, Abulele Bolitini, Eloko Kayaeze, Olwakhe Mlambo, Phiwe Kunjana, and Mnotho Khumalo.
Fixtures: HERE
Tickets: HERE
By: Mpendulo Letsoalo
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