The wait is over. The 2025 Carling Currie Cup blasts off this Friday, 25 July, and it does so with fireworks as the Airlink Pumas lock horns with their SA Cup final foes, the Griquas, at Mbombela Stadium. If there’s one fixture that promises physicality, flair, and drama from the first whistle, it’s this one.
These two sides went toe-to-toe earlier this year in a pulsating SA Cup final, and now they’re set to renew hostilities on an even bigger stage. It’s a rematch with bite. And with the Pumas playing at home, the Mbombela faithful are expected to bring the heat just as much as the players will.
Stonehouse: “This One’s Got Edge”
Airlink Pumas head coach Jimmy Stonehouse, speaking to Renaldo Bothma in the lead-up to the clash, couldn’t hide his excitement for what’s to come.
“There’s something about opening the Currie Cup at home, especially against a team like Griquas,” Stonehouse said. “They’re tough, they’re gritty, and they bring out the best in us. It’s going to be a proper battle.”
Stonehouse, flanked by assistants MJ Mentz and Corne Steenkamp, has named a power-packed squad for Friday night’s opener, with Willie Engelbrecht taking charge as captain. The seasoned loose forward is known for his leadership through action, and against the Griquas, his physicality at the breakdown will be crucial.
Tried and Tested Core with Electric Backline
The Pumas’ starting XV features several of the names that powered their 2024 campaign, including dynamic front rowers Etienne Janecke, Eduan Swart, and Sampie Swiegers. Behind them, the lock duo of Heinz Bertram and Jeandre Leonard provides muscle and line-out sharpness.
In the loose trio, Kwanda Dimaza and Ntsika Fisante bring mobility and grit, with Engelbrecht anchoring the trio at No. 8.
The halfback pairing of Ross Braude and Danrich Visagie will be key in dictating tempo, while midfield battering ram Clinton Swart (vice-captain) partners Sango Xamlashe in a centre combination built to win collisions and unleash pace out wide.
And what pace it is — Darren Adonis, Lundi Msenge, and fullback Tino Swanepoel round out a dangerous back three that could cut through any defence if given space.
Matchday 23 – Airlink Pumas
Starting XV:
- Etienne Janecke
- Eduan Swart
- Sampie Swiegers
- Heinz Bertram
- Jeandre Leonard
- Ntsika Fisante
- Kwanda Dimaza
- Willie Engelbrecht (C)
- Ross Braude
- Danrich Visagie
- Darren Adonis
- Clinton Swart (VC)
- Sango Xamlashe
- Lundi Msenge
- Tino Swanepoel
Replacements:
16. Darnell Osuagwu
17. Stephan De Jager
18. Dewald Maritz
19. JJ Scheepers
20. Andre Fouche
21. Russwill Fredericks
22. Wian van Niekerk
23. Stephan Coetzee
A Fixture That’s More Than Just Points
For the Pumas, this isn’t just another game—it’s personal. They’ll want to remind the Griquas exactly who claimed silverware last time around and do it in front of their home supporters.
But don’t expect Kimberley’s finest to roll over. The Griquas have built a reputation for giant-killing and know what it takes to scrap for every inch. They’ll come to Mbombela ready to spoil the party.
The Stakes Are Set
In a Currie Cup format that’s tighter and more intense than ever, starting strong is non-negotiable. The Pumas know this. Every point matters. And in a season opener where momentum could shape the tournament ahead, they’ll want to make an early statement.
Kickoff is at 19:00 at Mbombela Stadium, and if previous encounters are anything to go by, rugby fans can expect bone-rattling tackles, blistering pace, and a scoreboard that could swing until the final whistle.
It’s Currie Cup time. It’s Pumas vs Griquas. And it’s going to be one for the books.
