Griquas set to host Cheetahs in central region Currie Cup semi-final
Kimberley’s Suzuki Griquas host the Toyota Cheetahs in a high-stakes Currie Cup semi-final, with the province rallying behind their team as they chase a spot in the final.
Image: Danie van der Lith / DFA / File
The Carling Currie Cup semi-finals are set, with Kimberley gearing up for a high-stakes clash as the Suzuki Griquas host the Toyota Cheetahs at Suzuki Stadium on Saturday, September 13, with kickoff at 7.15pm.
Griquas earned second place on the final log with 25 points, securing the home advantage for this pivotal encounter. Despite a 37-7 loss to the Fidelity ADT Lions in their last league match – their second defeat of the season – the Griquas have shown strong form throughout the campaign.
They face a determined Cheetahs side, who finished fourth with 23 points. The Cheetahs recorded a convincing league win over the “Bloem Brekers”. Still, they fell short against the Vodacom Bulls in their final match, staging a spirited second-half comeback that signals they will be a tough opponent in Kimberley.
Lions favourites in Joburg
In the other semi-final, top-ranked Fidelity ADT Lions host the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers at Ellis Park in Johannesburg at 5pm. The Lions, experienced in Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) play, are considered favourites, aiming to correct last year’s narrow final defeat. Boland, despite finishing fourth on the log, struggled in their final match, losing 40-22 to DHL Western Province amid ill-discipline and three yellow cards.
The Currie Cup has increasingly become a showcase for smaller unions. With Griquas, Boland, and Cheetahs joining the URC-aligned Lions, the semi-finals promise intense rugby, and all eyes in Kimberley are on the Griquas to deliver a standout performance on home turf.
MEC gets behind Griquas
Northern Cape Province’s MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, Mr Mangaliso Matika, was quick to extend congratulations and support to the Griqua team.
“Your journey to this pivotal stage of the competition is a testament to the unwavering commitment, talent, and fighting spirit that define not only this incredible team, but the rich sporting heritage of the Northern Cape,” Matika said.
“As you take to the field, know that the entire province stands firmly behind you. You carry with you the hopes and pride of every supporter, young and old. Play with courage, honour the badge, and let your performance reflect the true spirit of Kimberley and the Northern Cape.”
Matika added, “May this be a moment of triumph and a stepping stone toward even greater success. On behalf of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, I wish you strength, focus, and victory … Go Griquas! Bring it home!”