Griquas Chase First-Place Currie Cup Finish 2026

The last time Griquas finished top of the Currie Cup league standings, South Africa was still a year away from hosting the Rugby World Cup. That was 1998. On Sunday in Wellington, Pieter Bergh's defending champions have the chance to end that 28-year wait — and they are going all in to do it.

Griquas Eye First Place Finish

Griquas and the Cheetahs are deadlocked on 26 points with semi-final berths already secured. The Cheetahs close out their league campaign against the Pumas in Mbombela on Saturday, meaning Griquas will know exactly what they need when they run out against Boland. First place means home advantage deep into the playoffs. That is more than enough motivation.

Bergh has made that priority crystal clear in his team selection. 'We want to finish first. That's why we selected the best possible team we could,' he said. 'We also want to maintain our winning momentum heading into the playoffs.' Given that Griquas have won their last five Currie Cup matches — including a 38-14 demolition of the Pumas and a 55-21 dismantling of the Sharks — that momentum is very real.

Key Lineup Changes for Final Match

The biggest selection news is the return of lock and captain Albert Liebenberg alongside his second-row partner Malembe Mpofu. Their presence gives Griquas a significant set-piece platform. George Whitehead, who has been managed through a heel complaint, drops to the bench, with Liam Koen taking the flyhalf jersey from the start. Blindside flank Marco de Witt will bring up his 50th appearance — a milestone that adds an extra edge to his preparations.

Boland Fight for Semi-Final Spot

Boland are no pushovers here, and Bergh knows it. The Cavaliers can still qualify for the semi-finals, which means Wellington on Sunday is a genuine cup final for them. They have met Griquas three times this season already, losing both previous encounters at this venue. 'We know they will be determined and that they will come with everything to make sure this isn't their last game of the season,' Bergh said.

Boland also have their own milestone to celebrate: lock Marlyn Williams is set to make his 100th appearance for the Cavaliers. Thurlow Marsh returns at No 8 and takes the captaincy, while Sibusiso Sangweni shifts to blindside flank to accommodate the change. It is worth noting that Jurick Lewis — who lines up at inside centre — is closing in on 50 caps of his own, adding further personal stakes to what shapes up as a compelling contest.

The Currie Cup semi-final picture will be clearer by Sunday afternoon. Griquas have done the hard work all season — five wins on the bounce speaks for itself. Now they hunt history. Whether they claim top spot or not, the defending champions are building toward something in these playoffs, and a home semi-final would make that journey considerably smoother.