Connect with us

KEO News Wire

Maro Itoje towers above all to lead British & Irish Lions

Published

on

Warren Gatland won’t pick England lock Maro Itoje as his British & Irish Lions captain for the eight-match tour of South Africa.  But he should, writes Mark Keohane.

Lions coach Gatland, in charge of the Lions 2013 and 2017 visits to Australia and New Zealand respectively, coached Wales for 12 years and is likely to go with seasoned veteran lock Alun Wyn Jones as his tour leader.

England captain Owen Farrell is also a consideration for the Lions touring squad, which will be named on Thursday, 6th May.

In the past week, many arguments have been presented, in print, on audio and on camera as to the folly of entrusting Itoje with the Lions captaincy.

They all have one common theme: Don’t make your best player the captain because the burden may prove too much and could detract from said player’s potency and influence.

Bollocks.

Make your best player the captain if he is good enough to lead.

Itoje, for me, is good enough to be that leader and he most certainly is the best lock option that Gatland can select from England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland.

Currently, Farrell is no certainty to make the Test starting XV, be it at No 10 or at No 12.

Many an international coach has learned the hard way that picking a captain not good enough to make the team is a recipe for disaster.

Wyn Jones, on his last international legs after a record-setting 157 internationals, wasn’t the form lock in the Six Nations and he shouldn’t start the Test series. His best days are behind him and he is playing more on instinct now than inspiration.

The indifferent and inconsistent form of so many players and teams in the Six Nations would have only added to Gatland’s selections. It is tough enough to combine four countries and turn them into a united team, but it is near impossible when there is so much fluctuation in performance from all four teams.

Wales won the Six Nations, but in three of their victories they had a one player advantage for half the matches. The championship-winning campaign would have looked decidedly different had it been a XV-on-XV contest for 80-plus minutes.

Farrell and Wyn Jones were powerful performers in the Lions drawn Test series against the All Blacks in New Zealand in 2017. Again, one has to put into perspective the series result. The All Blacks hammered the Lions in Auckland in the first Test, led up until the 70th minute of the second Test, despite Sonny Bill Williams’s red card in the 23rd minute, and scored two tries to nil in the 15-all drawn third Test. The Lions, in the series, led a match only once, and that was in Wellington’s second Test when they took the lead in the 77th minute.

The series could also have been that of the All Blacks if a penalty awarded in injury time of the third Test was not overturned and ruled a scrum feed.

The post mortem of the Lions to New Zealand, with five tour wins from 10 starts, wouldn’t have been as easy on the eye for the men in red.

What wouldn’t have read any differently is any reflection of Itoje’s tour and three-Test performance. He was comfortably the best forward on either side and he has consistently been among the game’s elite second rowers.

He is big, athletic, strong and commands as much respect from the opposition as he does his Saracens club and England teammates.

Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth, in a recent interview, raved about the qualities of Itoje.

‘What hype?’ asked Etzebeth. ‘He’s world class and one of the best in the game. I’ve played against him several times and have huge respect for him as a player.’

The Kiwi players said a similar thing in 2017. So did the New Zealand rugby public, who aren’t afraid to admit when an opposition player has the beating of their very own.

Former British and Irish Lions coach Ian McGeechan, in appointing Ireland’s Paul O’Connell to captain the Lions to South Africa in 2009, felt it important that the leader of the Lions didn’t look up to the captain of the Springboks at the coin toss but looked him squarely in the eye.

McGeechan felt O’Connell was the best lock option to start and also a wonderful leader of men.

Itoje is the best lock option for the Lions in 2021 and he will have no concerns about having to physically look up to anyone at a coin toss.

Pick your best team and then pick your captain. McGeechan shares a similar view of Itoje.

When you assess the captaincy options available to Gatland, not one of the current four home unions respective captains is certain to start the Test series.

I’d love to see Itoje lead the Lions against Siya Kolisi’s world champion Springboks and the rugby romantic in me would also delight in South African-born and raised winger Duhan van der Merwe making the Lions squad.

Van der Merwe, a former SA under 21 star, is the brother of Springboks hooker Akker van der Merwe, with the former sensational for Scotland in the past six months, having scored eight tries in 10 Tests.

Imagine a black man leading the British & Irish Lions out against the Springboks in South Africa and a Van der Merwe following him in red jersey.

Wow, that alone, would make this Test series one with a difference to any other Lions tour to South Africa.

*This article appeared on IOL.

Also on www.keo.co.za

A ‘Van der Merwe’ in British & Irish Lions is no April Fool’s joke

 

252 Comments

252 Comments

  1. Регистрация

    30th June 2023 at 9:51 pm

    I don’t think the title of your article matches the content lol. Just kidding, mainly because I had some doubts after reading the article. https://accounts.binance.com/bg/register-person?ref=DB40ITMB

  2. binance

    19th November 2024 at 11:32 pm

    Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?

  3. binance register

    27th December 2024 at 12:22 pm

    Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.

  4. Brittni Sichler

    16th December 2025 at 10:57 am

    It’s really a nice and helpful piece of information. I’m glad that you shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

  5. fdertolmrtokev

    20th December 2025 at 2:37 pm

    you are truly a just right webmaster. The web site loading velocity is amazing. It sort of feels that you’re doing any distinctive trick. Also, The contents are masterwork. you have done a excellent activity on this matter!

  6. ayuda TFM arquitectura

    30th December 2025 at 5:41 pm

    As I website owner I think the content here is really fantastic, appreciate it for your efforts.

  7. ayuda PFC arquitectura

    31st December 2025 at 3:51 am

    I really like your writing style, wonderful info , thankyou for putting up : D.

  8. manutenção ar condicionado

    14th January 2026 at 2:03 pm

    Hi there, simply turned into aware of your blog through Google, and found that it’s really informative. I’m going to watch out for brussels. I’ll appreciate when you proceed this in future. A lot of folks can be benefited from your writing. Cheers!

  9. luxury car rental Malaysia

    15th January 2026 at 12:10 am

    hi!,I love your writing so a lot! percentage we communicate extra approximately your article on AOL? I require an expert in this house to unravel my problem. May be that is you! Taking a look forward to peer you.

  10. solar power water heater Malaysia

    15th January 2026 at 1:28 am

    I’d constantly want to be update on new content on this internet site, bookmarked! .

  11. Automotive College in Malaysia

    15th January 2026 at 7:28 am

    It’s actually a great and useful piece of info. I am happy that you shared this useful information with us. Please stay us up to date like this. Thank you for sharing.

  12. buquê de rosas recife

    15th January 2026 at 7:59 am

    Can I simply say what a reduction to seek out somebody who actually knows what theyre speaking about on the internet. You definitely know how you can bring an issue to gentle and make it important. More people must learn this and understand this aspect of the story. I cant imagine youre not more common since you positively have the gift.

  13. live andar bahar

    15th January 2026 at 10:05 am

    so much wonderful info on here, : D.

  14. Cash BuyBack Harga

    15th January 2026 at 11:30 am

    Whats Happening i’m new to this, I stumbled upon this I have found It absolutely helpful and it has aided me out loads. I hope to contribute & aid other users like its aided me. Great job.

  15. mercedes workshop

    15th January 2026 at 8:15 pm

    Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your weblog and wanted to mention that I have really enjoyed surfing around your weblog posts. In any case I will be subscribing on your feed and I’m hoping you write again very soon!

  16. airmatic

    15th January 2026 at 11:40 pm

    What i don’t realize is if truth be told how you’re not really much more neatly-appreciated than you may be right now. You’re very intelligent. You recognize thus considerably on the subject of this topic, produced me individually believe it from so many numerous angles. Its like women and men are not involved until it?¦s something to do with Lady gaga! Your own stuffs nice. All the time maintain it up!

  17. kilat333

    16th January 2026 at 11:04 am

    Terrific paintings! This is the type of information that are meant to be shared around the net. Shame on Google for no longer positioning this put up higher! Come on over and consult with my website . Thank you =)

  18. kilat333

    16th January 2026 at 2:01 pm

    Hello, you used to write wonderful, but the last several posts have been kinda boring?K I miss your great writings. Past several posts are just a little bit out of track! come on!

  19. kilat333 login

    16th January 2026 at 3:18 pm

    Hello.This article was really remarkable, especially because I was investigating for thoughts on this topic last week.

  20. tlover tonet

    16th January 2026 at 5:13 pm

    Would you be inquisitive about exchanging links?

  21. kilat333

    16th January 2026 at 6:24 pm

    F*ckin’ remarkable issues here. I’m very glad to peer your post. Thanks a lot and i’m taking a look ahead to touch you. Will you please drop me a mail?

  22. typescript hosting

    16th January 2026 at 9:15 pm

    Howdy would you mind letting me know which hosting company you’re using? I’ve loaded your blog in 3 different internet browsers and I must say this blog loads a lot quicker then most. Can you recommend a good hosting provider at a reasonable price? Kudos, I appreciate it!

  23. miototo

    17th January 2026 at 8:15 am

    Terrific work! That is the type of information that are meant to be shared across the web. Disgrace on Google for no longer positioning this post upper! Come on over and talk over with my site . Thanks =)

  24. lottochamp reviews

    17th January 2026 at 7:22 pm

    Well I definitely enjoyed studying it. This article offered by you is very effective for correct planning.

  25. herpafend

    18th January 2026 at 5:12 am

    After all, what a great site and informative posts, I will upload inbound link – bookmark this web site? Regards, Reader.

  26. kerassentials review

    18th January 2026 at 8:13 am

    I cling on to listening to the news speak about getting free online grant applications so I have been looking around for the finest site to get one. Could you tell me please, where could i acquire some?

  27. gelatin trick

    18th January 2026 at 12:48 pm

    Great beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your web site, how can i subscribe for a blog web site? The account aided me a acceptable deal. I had been tiny bit acquainted of this your broadcast offered bright clear concept

  28. neurosharp review

    18th January 2026 at 2:07 pm

    You are my aspiration, I possess few web logs and sometimes run out from to post : (.

  29. gelatin trick

    18th January 2026 at 3:57 pm

    Valuable info. Lucky me I found your website by accident, and I am shocked why this accident didn’t happened earlier! I bookmarked it.

  30. pink salt trick

    18th January 2026 at 4:27 pm

    I conceive this web site has some real wonderful information for everyone. “I prefer the wicked rather than the foolish. The wicked sometimes rest.” by Alexandre Dumas.

  31. gelatin trick recipe

    18th January 2026 at 6:44 pm

    Magnificent website. A lot of useful info here. I am sending it to a few friends ans also sharing in delicious. And of course, thanks for your effort!

  32. gelatin trick for weight loss

    18th January 2026 at 8:42 pm

    I was very happy to search out this internet-site.I wished to thanks to your time for this excellent read!! I undoubtedly enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to take a look at new stuff you weblog post.

  33. gelatin trick

    18th January 2026 at 9:09 pm

    Hello very nice blog!! Man .. Excellent .. Wonderful .. I’ll bookmark your web site and take the feeds additionallyKI’m satisfied to seek out numerous useful info here in the submit, we want develop more techniques in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .

  34. pcxwin

    18th January 2026 at 10:20 pm

    Hello there, I found your blog by means of Google whilst searching for a comparable subject, your web site got here up, it appears to be like great. I’ve bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.

  35. gelatin trick recipe

    19th January 2026 at 2:34 am

    Hiya, I’m really glad I’ve found this info. Today bloggers publish only about gossips and web and this is really annoying. A good site with exciting content, that is what I need. Thanks for keeping this site, I will be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Can’t find it.

  36. royal138

    19th January 2026 at 3:05 am

    I really appreciate this post. I’ve been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thanks again

  37. ladang88 daftar

    19th January 2026 at 2:46 pm

    Good day very cool website!! Man .. Beautiful .. Superb .. I’ll bookmark your web site and take the feeds additionallyKI’m happy to find numerous useful information right here in the submit, we want develop extra techniques on this regard, thank you for sharing. . . . . .

  38. daftar susterslot

    19th January 2026 at 10:46 pm

    Excellent site. Plenty of useful info here. I’m sending it to several friends ans also sharing in delicious. And naturally, thanks on your sweat!

  39. agen togel online

    20th January 2026 at 1:48 am

    Great write-up, I’m regular visitor of one’s website, maintain up the nice operate, and It’s going to be a regular visitor for a long time.

  40. reenvío de correo Suiza

    20th January 2026 at 4:01 am

    hey there and thank you on your information – I have certainly picked up anything new from right here. I did alternatively experience several technical issues the use of this website, as I skilled to reload the site a lot of instances previous to I may just get it to load correctly. I had been wondering if your web host is OK? Not that I’m complaining, but slow loading circumstances times will often have an effect on your placement in google and can harm your quality ranking if ads and ***********|advertising|advertising|advertising and *********** with Adwords. Anyway I am including this RSS to my e-mail and can look out for a lot more of your respective fascinating content. Ensure that you replace this again soon..

  41. lgopro99

    20th January 2026 at 4:25 am

    I think this internet site contains some very superb info for everyone :D. “Anybody who watches three games of football in a row should be declared brain dead.” by Erma Bombeck.

  42. motion graphics designs

    20th January 2026 at 6:36 am

    Thank you for any other informative website. Where else may just I get that type of info written in such an ideal means? I have a project that I’m just now running on, and I’ve been at the look out for such info.

  43. herramienta de analítica web

    20th January 2026 at 7:07 am

    Pretty! This was a really wonderful post. Thank you for your provided information.

  44. top up royal dream

    20th January 2026 at 9:51 am

    I like this blog very much, Its a really nice billet to read and find info . “Young men think old men are fools but old men know young men are fools.” by George Chapman.

  45. royal138

    20th January 2026 at 4:55 pm

    Hi my loved one! I wish to say that this post is awesome, great written and include almost all important infos. I’d like to look extra posts like this.

  46. zabornatorilon

    20th January 2026 at 6:57 pm

    Hey there would you mind letting me know which web host you’re working with? I’ve loaded your blog in 3 completely different web browsers and I must say this blog loads a lot faster then most. Can you suggest a good web hosting provider at a fair price? Many thanks, I appreciate it!

  47. citrus burn

    21st January 2026 at 10:33 am

    Greetings from Carolina! I’m bored to tears at work so I decided to check out your site on my iphone during lunch break. I enjoy the info you provide here and can’t wait to take a look when I get home. I’m shocked at how quick your blog loaded on my mobile .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyhow, fantastic site!

  48. citrus burn review

    21st January 2026 at 1:59 pm

    I am no longer certain where you are getting your information, but great topic. I must spend some time learning much more or working out more. Thank you for fantastic information I used to be searching for this info for my mission.

  49. optivell

    22nd January 2026 at 2:51 am

    I have been exploring for a bit for any high-quality articles or blog posts in this sort of space . Exploring in Yahoo I ultimately stumbled upon this web site. Studying this info So i’m glad to express that I have a very excellent uncanny feeling I found out exactly what I needed. I most definitely will make sure to don’t overlook this website and give it a glance regularly.

  50. kilat333

    22nd January 2026 at 7:26 am

    Thank you for the good writeup. It in fact was a amusement account it. Look advanced to far added agreeable from you! However, how could we communicate?

  51. simple vision protocol

    22nd January 2026 at 9:31 am

    Hello my loved one! I want to say that this article is amazing, great written and come with approximately all important infos. I¦d like to see extra posts like this .

  52. best electric shaver

    22nd January 2026 at 1:46 pm

    Respect to author, some good entropy.

  53. forzen berry protocol

    22nd January 2026 at 2:14 pm

    Undeniably believe that which you said. Your favorite justification seemed to be on the net the easiest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I certainly get annoyed while people think about worries that they plainly do not know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top and also defined out the whole thing without having side effect , people can take a signal. Will likely be back to get more. Thanks

  54. comprar listas iptv

    22nd January 2026 at 7:06 pm

    You really make it seem really easy together with your presentation however I to find this matter to be actually one thing that I feel I would never understand. It sort of feels too complicated and very broad for me. I’m looking forward for your subsequent publish, I’ll attempt to get the grasp of it!

  55. flixy tv

    23rd January 2026 at 6:07 am

    Thanks for all your efforts that you have put in this. very interesting info .

  56. nuro clean mold remover gel

    23rd January 2026 at 1:48 pm

    Great write-up, I am regular visitor of one¦s web site, maintain up the nice operate, and It’s going to be a regular visitor for a long time.

  57. wellaheat socks

    23rd January 2026 at 10:40 pm

    You have brought up a very excellent details , thanks for the post.

  58. wellaheat socks

    24th January 2026 at 1:30 am

    Good write-up, I?¦m normal visitor of one?¦s web site, maintain up the excellent operate, and It is going to be a regular visitor for a lengthy time.

  59. lk21

    24th January 2026 at 1:31 am

    Hi there, You’ve done a great job. I will definitely digg it and personally recommend to my friends. I am sure they will be benefited from this site.

  60. iblbet

    24th January 2026 at 3:49 pm

    There is noticeably a bundle to know about this. I assume you made certain good points in features also.

  61. wuffy robot puppy

    24th January 2026 at 5:42 pm

    Nice post. I was checking continuously this blog and I’m impressed! Extremely useful information specifically the last part 🙂 I care for such information much. I was seeking this certain info for a very long time. Thank you and good luck.

  62. iblbet

    24th January 2026 at 6:35 pm

    I got good info from your blog

  63. iptv gratis 2025

    25th January 2026 at 3:01 pm

    I truly wanted to construct a simple comment so as to say thanks to you for all the unique steps you are giving out at this site. My considerable internet look up has finally been recognized with brilliant content to share with my colleagues. I would state that that most of us website visitors are very much lucky to exist in a notable network with very many marvellous professionals with very helpful tricks. I feel truly fortunate to have encountered your web pages and look forward to many more amazing times reading here. Thanks a lot once again for a lot of things.

  64. the brain song

    25th January 2026 at 4:19 pm

    We absolutely love your blog and find almost all of your post’s to be just what I’m looking for. Does one offer guest writers to write content for yourself? I wouldn’t mind producing a post or elaborating on a lot of the subjects you write regarding here. Again, awesome web log!

  65. kilat333

    25th January 2026 at 6:46 pm

    I haven’t checked in here for a while because I thought it was getting boring, but the last several posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my daily bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂

  66. lotto champ review

    25th January 2026 at 8:17 pm

    Real good info can be found on web site. “Search others for their virtues, thyself for thy vices.” by Benjamin Franklin.

  67. IP Test Chambers

    25th January 2026 at 10:40 pm

    Today, I went to the beach with my kids. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She placed the shell to her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is entirely off topic but I had to tell someone!

  68. slotsbr365

    26th January 2026 at 3:18 am

    Greetings from Ohio! I’m bored to death at work so I decided to browse your blog on my iphone during lunch break. I really like the information you present here and can’t wait to take a look when I get home. I’m surprised at how fast your blog loaded on my phone .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyhow, superb blog!

  69. boostaro review

    26th January 2026 at 3:42 am

    There is noticeably a lot to realize about this. I assume you made some nice points in features also.

  70. slim burn

    26th January 2026 at 8:01 am

    Hey there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I will certainly digg it and individually recommend to my friends. I’m confident they’ll be benefited from this site.

  71. robot catalog api

    26th January 2026 at 11:46 am

    Would you be enthusiastic about exchanging links?

  72. gelatin trick

    26th January 2026 at 8:38 pm

    You actually make it seem really easy with your presentation however I find this matter to be actually one thing which I believe I would by no means understand. It seems too complicated and very large for me. I’m having a look forward in your subsequent post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!

  73. kilat333

    27th January 2026 at 1:02 pm

    This blog is definitely rather handy since I’m at the moment creating an internet floral website – although I am only starting out therefore it’s really fairly small, nothing like this site. Can link to a few of the posts here as they are quite. Thanks much. Zoey Olsen

  74. 구글상단노출

    27th January 2026 at 2:38 pm

    A person essentially help to make seriously articles I would state. This is the first time I frequented your web page and thus far? I surprised with the research you made to create this particular publish extraordinary. Great job!

  75. iptv

    27th January 2026 at 9:12 pm

    I’m really loving the theme/design of your website. Do you ever run into any browser compatibility issues? A few of my blog readers have complained about my website not operating correctly in Explorer but looks great in Chrome. Do you have any solutions to help fix this problem?

  76. cara jualan online di facebook

    28th January 2026 at 12:30 am

    I like this web site very much, Its a really nice post to read and get info . “Oregano is the spice of life.” by Henry J. Tillman.

  77. royal138 pengacara

    28th January 2026 at 2:30 am

    Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for!

  78. Chinese green tea

    28th January 2026 at 4:31 pm

    You have mentioned very interesting points! ps decent web site.

  79. kilat333

    29th January 2026 at 4:42 am

    Great V I should definitely pronounce, impressed with your website. I had no trouble navigating through all the tabs and related information ended up being truly easy to do to access. I recently found what I hoped for before you know it in the least. Reasonably unusual. Is likely to appreciate it for those who add forums or something, website theme . a tones way for your customer to communicate. Excellent task..

  80. david hoffmeister wikipedia

    29th January 2026 at 11:13 am

    The other day, while I was at work, my sister stole my apple ipad and tested to see if it can survive a 30 foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My apple ipad is now broken and she has 83 views. I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!

  81. apple ios

    29th January 2026 at 2:08 pm

    I love looking through and I believe this website got some truly utilitarian stuff on it! .

  82. wedding venues lake como

    30th January 2026 at 12:49 am

    The subsequent time I read a blog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as a lot as this one. I mean, I know it was my choice to read, but I actually thought youd have something attention-grabbing to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you can fix for those who werent too busy looking for attention.

  83. cheap flights usa

    30th January 2026 at 6:21 am

    USA Flights 24 — search engine helps you compare prices from hundreds of airlines and travel sites in seconds — so you can find cheap flights fast. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country adventure, or an international vacation, we make it easy to fly for less.

  84. gelatin trick for weight loss

    30th January 2026 at 12:28 pm

    Just a smiling visitant here to share the love (:, btw outstanding design.

  85. gelatin trick

    30th January 2026 at 7:30 pm

    Thank you, I have just been searching for info about this topic for ages and yours is the greatest I have discovered so far. But, what about the conclusion? Are you sure about the source?

  86. gelatin trick

    31st January 2026 at 1:31 am

    I have recently started a site, the information you provide on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.

  87. gelatin trick

    31st January 2026 at 7:06 am

    I¦ve recently started a blog, the info you provide on this site has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.

  88. gelatin trick

    31st January 2026 at 12:48 pm

    I have read a few excellent stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how a lot attempt you put to create the sort of magnificent informative web site.

  89. ghdrol

    31st January 2026 at 4:24 pm

    I always was interested in this subject and stock still am, regards for putting up.

  90. ethical hacking penetration testing services

    1st February 2026 at 1:32 pm

    Hello! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this website? I’m getting sick and tired of WordPress because I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at alternatives for another platform. I would be fantastic if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.

  91. ethical hacking vulnerabilities

    1st February 2026 at 3:38 pm

    Hi my friend! I want to say that this article is amazing, nice written and come with approximately all significant infos. I¦d like to look more posts like this .

  92. ethical hacking vulnerabilities

    1st February 2026 at 8:32 pm

    Great post. I was checking continuously this blog and I’m impressed! Extremely useful information specifically the last part 🙂 I care for such information a lot. I was seeking this particular info for a very long time. Thank you and good luck.

  93. certified ethical hacker (ceh)

    1st February 2026 at 11:11 pm

    There is apparently a bunch to identify about this. I consider you made various nice points in features also.

  94. top up royal dream

    2nd February 2026 at 2:46 am

    I got what you intend, appreciate it for putting up.Woh I am pleased to find this website through google. “Wisdom doesn’t necessarily come with age. Sometimes age just shows up by itself.” by Woodrow Wilson.

  95. ethical hacking tools

    2nd February 2026 at 4:02 am

    I think you have remarked some very interesting points, thanks for the post.

  96. best online casino india

    2nd February 2026 at 6:25 am

    The next time I read a blog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as much as this one. I mean, I know it was my choice to read, but I actually thought youd have something interesting to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you could fix if you werent too busy looking for attention.

  97. ethical hackers for hire

    2nd February 2026 at 7:37 am

    Hello! I could have sworn I’ve been to this blog before but after browsing through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyways, I’m definitely happy I found it and I’ll be book-marking and checking back frequently!

  98. ethical hackers for business

    2nd February 2026 at 12:52 pm

    I enjoy the efforts you have put in this, appreciate it for all the great articles.

  99. top up royal dream

    2nd February 2026 at 3:23 pm

    It is really a nice and useful piece of info. I?¦m glad that you just shared this helpful info with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thanks for sharing.

  100. ethical hacking techniques

    2nd February 2026 at 4:33 pm

    Great line up. We will be linking to this great article on our site. Keep up the good writing.

  101. ethical hacking tools

    3rd February 2026 at 2:28 am

    I love the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great posts.

  102. shipping agent

    3rd February 2026 at 9:17 pm

    It¦s in point of fact a great and helpful piece of info. I am satisfied that you just shared this helpful information with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

  103. david hoffmeister

    4th February 2026 at 8:08 am

    I was very pleased to find this web-site.I wanted to thanks for your time for this wonderful read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you blog post.

  104. pcxwin

    4th February 2026 at 10:09 am

    Hiya, I am really glad I’ve found this info. Today bloggers publish only about gossips and internet and this is really frustrating. A good web site with exciting content, that’s what I need. Thanks for keeping this web-site, I’ll be visiting it. Do you do newsletters? Can not find it.

  105. gcmaf yogurt starter

    4th February 2026 at 4:25 pm

    I carry on listening to the news speak about receiving free online grant applications so I have been looking around for the finest site to get one. Could you tell me please, where could i find some?

  106. flixy tv

    4th February 2026 at 8:59 pm

    I have been surfing on-line more than 3 hours today, but I by no means found any attention-grabbing article like yours. It¦s lovely worth sufficient for me. Personally, if all webmasters and bloggers made excellent content material as you probably did, the internet can be much more helpful than ever before.

  107. slot depo 5k

    5th February 2026 at 2:13 am

    Some really grand work on behalf of the owner of this internet site, absolutely great content.

  108. tonicgreens review

    5th February 2026 at 8:05 am

    This web site is really a walk-through for all of the info you wanted about this and didn’t know who to ask. Glimpse here, and you’ll definitely discover it.

  109. tonic greens

    5th February 2026 at 9:04 pm

    Today, I went to the beach front with my children. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She placed the shell to her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is entirely off topic but I had to tell someone!

  110. herpafend

    6th February 2026 at 12:42 am

    Really Appreciate this post, can I set it up so I receive an email sent to me every time there is a fresh post?

  111. vigor long

    6th February 2026 at 2:23 am

    What’s Going down i am new to this, I stumbled upon this I’ve discovered It positively helpful and it has helped me out loads. I hope to contribute & help different users like its aided me. Great job.

  112. I used to be more than happy to find this internet-site.I wanted to thanks in your time for this wonderful read!! I undoubtedly having fun with every little little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you weblog post.

  113. Juiz de Direito Damásio 2025

    6th February 2026 at 4:59 pm

    Absolutely indited content, appreciate it for information. “The bravest thing you can do when you are not brave is to profess courage and act accordingly.” by Corra Harris.

  114. Concurso MPE PB 2025

    6th February 2026 at 10:21 pm

    Thanx for the effort, keep up the good work Great work, I am going to start a small Blog Engine course work using your site I hope you enjoy blogging with the popular BlogEngine.net.Thethoughts you express are really awesome. Hope you will right some more posts.

  115. Preparatório Ministério Público PA 2025

    7th February 2026 at 1:40 am

    Sweet internet site, super design and style, really clean and utilise pleasant.

  116. Preparatório Ministério Público RJ 2025

    7th February 2026 at 4:19 am

    Wow, fantastic blog layout! How long have you been blogging for? you make blogging look easy. The overall look of your website is excellent, let alone the content!

  117. Curso Pós-Edital Estratégia 2025

    7th February 2026 at 8:39 am

    Greetings! I’ve been reading your web site for a while now and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout out from Huffman Tx! Just wanted to say keep up the excellent job!

  118. kilat333

    7th February 2026 at 10:51 am

    I’ve read several good stuff here. Certainly worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how much effort you put to make such a wonderful informative web site.

  119. slot deposit 5k

    7th February 2026 at 1:39 pm

    You are my breathing in, I have few blogs and rarely run out from to post .

  120. achtformpool kaufen

    7th February 2026 at 8:41 pm

    Absolutely pent subject matter, regards for selective information. “In the fight between you and the world, back the world.” by Frank Zappa.

  121. painel iptv

    8th February 2026 at 4:58 pm

    What i don’t understood is in fact how you are no longer really much more smartly-preferred than you might be right now. You’re very intelligent. You understand thus significantly with regards to this topic, made me for my part consider it from so many numerous angles. Its like women and men aren’t fascinated unless it’s something to do with Lady gaga! Your own stuffs excellent. At all times take care of it up!

  122. Darmowe

    9th February 2026 at 4:16 am

    hi!,I like your writing so much! share we communicate more about your post on AOL? I need a specialist on this area to solve my problem. May be that’s you! Looking forward to see you.

  123. warez revenda

    10th February 2026 at 12:30 pm

    Good info. Lucky me I reach on your website by accident, I bookmarked it.

  124. 강남도파민

    10th February 2026 at 2:47 pm

    naturally like your website but you need to test the spelling on several of your posts. Several of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very bothersome to inform the reality nevertheless I¦ll surely come back again.

  125. ibo player ativação

    10th February 2026 at 11:20 pm

    This website is my inspiration , very superb style and design and perfect content.

  126. ar condicionado em guarulhos

    11th February 2026 at 1:03 am

    I like the efforts you have put in this, thank you for all the great blog posts.

  127. homestay idukki

    11th February 2026 at 3:41 am

    I’m not that much of a online reader to be honest but your sites really nice, keep it up! I’ll go ahead and bookmark your site to come back in the future. Cheers

  128. AI companion

    11th February 2026 at 7:48 am

    Helpful info. Fortunate me I discovered your web site unintentionally, and I am shocked why this twist of fate did not came about in advance! I bookmarked it.

  129. CNC TURBINA PNEUMÁTICA

    11th February 2026 at 12:30 pm

    You have brought up a very good points, appreciate it for the post.

  130. 轧戏爱一帆

    11th February 2026 at 12:44 pm

    Top Online Casinos Australia Real Money Including

  131. divida ativa sp

    11th February 2026 at 3:02 pm

    Thanks , I’ve recently been searching for info about this subject for ages and yours is the greatest I have discovered till now. But, what about the bottom line? Are you sure about the source?

  132. rateios de cursos

    11th February 2026 at 7:14 pm

    Saved as a favorite, I really like your blog!

  133. 강남퍼펙트

    11th February 2026 at 7:24 pm

    I like this internet site because so much utile stuff on here : D.

  134. igm247 live chat

    11th February 2026 at 11:27 pm

    There is visibly a bunch to realize about this. I assume you made some good points in features also.

  135. gelatin trick

    12th February 2026 at 1:53 am

    naturally like your web-site but you need to take a look at the spelling on several of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling issues and I in finding it very troublesome to inform the reality however I will certainly come back again.

  136. 강남가라오케

    12th February 2026 at 5:37 am

    I don’t usually comment but I gotta say thankyou for the post on this one : D.

  137. gelatin trick

    12th February 2026 at 6:03 am

    A person essentially lend a hand to make seriously articles I might state. That is the first time I frequented your web page and thus far? I surprised with the research you made to make this particular post extraordinary. Fantastic process!

  138. casimon

    12th February 2026 at 3:15 pm

    Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive learn something like this before. So good to search out someone with some original thoughts on this subject. realy thank you for starting this up. this website is something that is needed on the net, somebody with slightly originality. useful job for bringing something new to the web!

  139. 선릉가라오케

    12th February 2026 at 3:37 pm

    I’ll immediately grasp your rss as I can not to find your e-mail subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Please allow me recognize so that I may just subscribe. Thanks.

  140. Toby Cantrelle

    12th February 2026 at 8:11 pm

    Wow! Thank you! I permanently needed to write on my site something like that. Can I include a portion of your post to my blog?

  141. boostaro

    13th February 2026 at 2:36 am

    hello there and thank you in your information – I’ve certainly picked up something new from proper here. I did alternatively experience a few technical points the use of this site, as I skilled to reload the site a lot of times previous to I may just get it to load correctly. I were pondering in case your hosting is OK? No longer that I’m complaining, but slow loading circumstances times will sometimes impact your placement in google and could harm your quality score if advertising and ***********|advertising|advertising|advertising and *********** with Adwords. Anyway I am adding this RSS to my email and can look out for much extra of your respective fascinating content. Make sure you update this again soon..

  142. atom108 login

    13th February 2026 at 10:53 am

    You can definitely see your enthusiasm in the work you write. The arena hopes for more passionate writers like you who are not afraid to mention how they believe. All the time go after your heart.

  143. 제주가라오케

    14th February 2026 at 11:06 am

    Those are yours alright! . We at least need to get these people stealing images to start blogging! They probably just did a image search and grabbed them. They look good though!

  144. Hey! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with SEO? I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing very good success. If you know of any please share. Thanks!

  145. Preparatório ALE RJ 2025

    15th February 2026 at 12:20 am

    Very interesting details you have remarked, thankyou for posting.

  146. Curso Pós-Edital Estratégia 2025

    15th February 2026 at 4:57 am

    Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for! “Peace, commerce and honest friendship with all nations entangling alliances with none.” by Thomas Jefferson.

  147. OAB 1ª Fase 44º Exame Plus CEISC 2025

    15th February 2026 at 8:53 am

    It is actually a nice and helpful piece of information. I’m happy that you simply shared this helpful information with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

  148. jaya slot

    15th February 2026 at 10:30 am

    You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this matter to be really something that I think I would never understand. It seems too complex and very broad for me. I am looking forward for your next post, I will try to get the hang of it!

  149. toto togel

    16th February 2026 at 11:39 pm

    I have been surfing on-line greater than 3 hours nowadays, yet I never found any fascinating article like yours. It is lovely price enough for me. In my opinion, if all site owners and bloggers made excellent content as you did, the web shall be much more useful than ever before. “Where facts are few, experts are many.” by Donald R. Gannon.

  150. deposit 5000

    17th February 2026 at 2:18 am

    Hey there are using WordPress for your blog platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and create my own. Do you require any coding expertise to make your own blog? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

  151. slot depo 5k

    17th February 2026 at 2:51 am

    I don’t even know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was good. I don’t know who you are but certainly you’re going to a famous blogger if you are not already 😉 Cheers!

  152. mantap 555

    17th February 2026 at 3:26 am

    Rattling superb visual appeal on this website , I’d value it 10 10.

  153. homes for sale in kileleshwa

    17th February 2026 at 10:31 am

    Keep functioning ,terrific job!

  154. gelatin trick

    19th February 2026 at 1:33 pm

    F*ckin’ awesome things here. I’m very happy to look your post. Thanks so much and i am looking forward to contact you. Will you kindly drop me a e-mail?

  155. tlover tonet

    19th February 2026 at 7:31 pm

    Wonderful beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your website, how could i subscribe for a blog web site? The account helped me a acceptable deal. I had been a little bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear idea

  156. olxtoto

    20th February 2026 at 5:14 am

    It’s in point of fact a nice and useful piece of info. I am satisfied that you shared this helpful info with us. Please stay us informed like this. Thank you for sharing.

  157. gelatin trick

    20th February 2026 at 10:25 am

    naturally like your web-site but you need to test the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling problems and I in finding it very bothersome to tell the truth however I’ll surely come again again.

  158. gelatin trick recipe

    20th February 2026 at 6:05 pm

    Thanks for any other magnificent article. Where else could anybody get that type of info in such an ideal approach of writing? I’ve a presentation subsequent week, and I’m at the look for such information.

  159. gelatin trick

    21st February 2026 at 2:30 am

    I will immediately clutch your rss feed as I can’t find your email subscription link or newsletter service. Do you have any? Kindly allow me know in order that I may just subscribe. Thanks.

  160. slot gacor maxwin

    22nd February 2026 at 9:29 pm

    I’m not sure the place you are getting your info, but good topic. I needs to spend a while learning more or figuring out more. Thank you for excellent info I used to be on the lookout for this information for my mission.

  161. orange peel trick

    23rd February 2026 at 9:57 am

    It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d without a doubt donate to this fantastic blog! I suppose for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to brand new updates and will share this website with my Facebook group. Talk soon!

  162. gelatin trick

    24th February 2026 at 12:33 am

    Hi there, I discovered your web site by way of Google while looking for a related topic, your web site got here up, it looks good. I’ve bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.

  163. iblbet

    24th February 2026 at 12:44 am

    I’ll right away grab your rss feed as I can not find your e-mail subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Please let me know in order that I could subscribe. Thanks.

  164. Roof age and condition cost factors

    24th February 2026 at 1:37 am

    The other day, while I was at work, my cousin stole my apple ipad and tested to see if it can survive a 30 foot drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My apple ipad is now destroyed and she has 83 views. I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!

  165. gelatin trick

    24th February 2026 at 4:34 am

    I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post…

  166. seltoto

    24th February 2026 at 4:38 am

    Your style is so unique compared to many other people. Thank you for publishing when you have the opportunity,Guess I will just make this bookmarked.

  167. iblbet daftar

    24th February 2026 at 6:32 am

    Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of info in such an ideal way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such info.

  168. زيادة متابعين تيك توك

    25th February 2026 at 3:50 am

    Have you ever thought about including a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is valuable and all. However think of if you added some great pictures or video clips to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with pics and clips, this blog could undeniably be one of the greatest in its niche. Wonderful blog!

  169. betspin138 login

    26th February 2026 at 2:11 am

    Hey would you mind sharing which blog platform you’re working with? I’m planning to start my own blog soon but I’m having a difficult time deciding between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal. The reason I ask is because your layout seems different then most blogs and I’m looking for something completely unique. P.S Sorry for getting off-topic but I had to ask!

  170. hargatoto

    26th February 2026 at 10:16 am

    What i don’t understood is actually how you are not really a lot more well-appreciated than you may be right now. You are so intelligent. You recognize thus significantly in the case of this matter, produced me in my opinion believe it from a lot of numerous angles. Its like women and men aren’t involved except it is one thing to accomplish with Girl gaga! Your own stuffs nice. At all times handle it up!

  171. canon soporte tecnico

    26th February 2026 at 11:08 am

    Hello would you mind stating which blog platform you’re using? I’m going to start my own blog soon but I’m having a tough time making a decision between BlogEngine/Wordpress/B2evolution and Drupal. The reason I ask is because your design and style seems different then most blogs and I’m looking for something completely unique. P.S Sorry for being off-topic but I had to ask!

  172. situs slot 5000

    26th February 2026 at 12:45 pm

    I’m really impressed with your writing skills as well as with the layout on your weblog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself? Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it is rare to see a great blog like this one nowadays..

  173. pisos turisticos pamplona

    26th February 2026 at 2:01 pm

    As I web-site possessor I believe the content matter here is rattling wonderful , appreciate it for your efforts. You should keep it up forever! Good Luck.

  174. hargatoto

    26th February 2026 at 4:09 pm

    Thanks for all your efforts that you have put in this. very interesting information.

  175. ayuda PFG arquitectura

    26th February 2026 at 7:23 pm

    Hi there! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering if you knew where I could locate a captcha plugin for my comment form? I’m using the same blog platform as yours and I’m having difficulty finding one? Thanks a lot!

  176. mancuernas de neopren

    27th February 2026 at 7:57 am

    I wanted to thank you for this great read!! I definitely enjoying every little bit of it I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you post…

  177. boostaro

    27th February 2026 at 10:05 am

    Great web site. A lot of useful info here. I am sending it to several friends ans also sharing in delicious. And obviously, thanks for your effort!

  178. ghdrol funciona

    27th February 2026 at 12:10 pm

    I just could not leave your web site before suggesting that I actually enjoyed the usual information a person provide in your guests? Is gonna be again steadily to check up on new posts

  179. ghdrol funciona

    27th February 2026 at 1:47 pm

    Hi, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your website in Safari, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, fantastic blog!

  180. Dispensary products

    27th February 2026 at 7:21 pm

    It’s hard to find knowledgeable people on this topic, but you sound like you know what you’re talking about! Thanks

  181. tonic greens

    27th February 2026 at 9:17 pm

    Some genuinely interesting details you have written.Aided me a lot, just what I was looking for :D.

  182. tonic greens

    27th February 2026 at 10:45 pm

    Someone essentially help to make seriously articles I would state. This is the very first time I frequented your web page and thus far? I surprised with the research you made to make this particular publish amazing. Great job!

  183. CBD store

    27th February 2026 at 10:57 pm

    Keep functioning ,terrific job!

  184. fren88

    28th February 2026 at 3:29 am

    Rattling clear internet site, appreciate it for this post.

  185. tempat

    28th February 2026 at 4:56 am

    Hi there! I simply wish to give an enormous thumbs up for the good information you might have right here on this post. I will probably be coming again to your blog for more soon.

  186. burnslim review

    28th February 2026 at 6:18 am

    Hey very nice site!! Man .. Excellent .. Amazing .. I’ll bookmark your web site and take the feeds also…I am happy to find a lot of useful info here in the post, we need work out more strategies in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .

  187. streamate web cam

    28th February 2026 at 5:03 pm

    Enjoyed reading through this, very good stuff, appreciate it. “What the United States does best is to understand itself. What it does worst is understand others.” by Carlos Fuentes.

  188. quiz4d terbaik indonesia

    1st March 2026 at 12:11 pm

    Dead written content material, Really enjoyed looking at.

  189. surveillance and investigations

    4th March 2026 at 12:40 am

    I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great blog posts.

  190. pink salt trick for weight loss

    4th March 2026 at 12:56 pm

    I like your writing style truly loving this web site.

  191. pink salt trick for weight loss

    5th March 2026 at 10:01 am

    It’s really a great and useful piece of info. I am glad that you shared this useful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thank you for sharing.

  192. prodentim review

    5th March 2026 at 3:53 pm

    Some truly superb blog posts on this site, thank you for contribution. “We are always in search of the redeeming formula, the crystallizing thought.” by Etty Hillesum.

  193. dubai wealth secret

    5th March 2026 at 8:21 pm

    It is best to participate in a contest for among the best blogs on the web. I will recommend this web site!

  194. metal laser processing equipment

    6th March 2026 at 5:02 pm

    you have a great blog here! would you like to make some invite posts on my blog?

  195. hokibos898

    7th March 2026 at 1:55 am

    Hey There. I discovered your weblog using msn. This is a very well written article. I will be sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your helpful info. Thank you for the post. I’ll definitely return.

  196. hokibos898

    7th March 2026 at 7:54 am

    Hi my friend! I want to say that this article is awesome, nice written and include approximately all significant infos. I would like to look more posts like this .

  197. curso area juridica municipal

    7th March 2026 at 10:40 am

    Thanks for every other wonderful article. Where else could anyone get that type of info in such an ideal manner of writing? I’ve a presentation subsequent week, and I am on the look for such info.

  198. schwimmbadfolien komplettset

    8th March 2026 at 12:39 am

    Yay google is my queen helped me to find this outstanding internet site! .

  199. Platinumwhore

    8th March 2026 at 5:26 pm

    I see something really special in this internet site.

  200. situs slot

    9th March 2026 at 10:47 pm

    An impressive share, I simply given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he actually purchased me breakfast as a result of I discovered it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the treat! However yeah Thnkx for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love studying more on this topic. If possible, as you turn into experience, would you thoughts updating your blog with extra details? It’s highly helpful for me. Large thumb up for this blog submit!

  201. citrus burn review

    9th March 2026 at 11:12 pm

    I’m impressed, I have to say. Actually not often do I encounter a blog that’s both educative and entertaining, and let me inform you, you have hit the nail on the head. Your concept is excellent; the issue is one thing that not enough persons are talking intelligently about. I’m very happy that I stumbled throughout this in my search for one thing referring to this.

  202. pulmo balance

    10th March 2026 at 3:12 am

    This web site is really a walk-through for all of the info you wanted about this and didn’t know who to ask. Glimpse here, and you’ll definitely discover it.

  203. derila ergo

    10th March 2026 at 4:56 am

    You are a very bright individual!

  204. derila ergo

    10th March 2026 at 10:30 am

    This is a topic close to my heart cheers, where are your contact details though?

  205. empresas en inca

    10th March 2026 at 4:53 pm

    Hi , I do believe this is an excellent blog. I stumbled upon it on Yahoo , i will come back once again. Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich and help other people.

  206. suster123

    10th March 2026 at 5:28 pm

    of course like your web-site but you have to check the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very bothersome to tell the truth nevertheless I’ll surely come back again.

  207. fren88

    10th March 2026 at 7:24 pm

    Some times its a pain in the ass to read what website owners wrote but this web site is very user genial! .

  208. ayuda TFG arquitectura

    11th March 2026 at 1:51 am

    You have observed very interesting details ! ps decent internet site.

  209. 数字 3

    11th March 2026 at 5:06 am

    Hey! Would you mind if I share your blog with my zynga group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content. Please let me know. Thanks

  210. ayuda TFM arquitectura

    11th March 2026 at 9:27 am

    I know this if off topic but I’m looking into starting my own weblog and was wondering what all is required to get set up? I’m assuming having a blog like yours would cost a pretty penny? I’m not very internet smart so I’m not 100 certain. Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated. Cheers

  211. slot dana

    11th March 2026 at 12:15 pm

    Hi, Neat post. There’s a problem together with your site in web explorer, would test this… IE nonetheless is the market chief and a huge component to other folks will leave out your fantastic writing due to this problem.

  212. lighting companies in austin

    11th March 2026 at 6:35 pm

    I am impressed with this site, really I am a fan.

  213. GullyBet promo codes

    12th March 2026 at 1:12 am

    This really answered my drawback, thank you!

  214. alicates de sujeción

    12th March 2026 at 5:44 am

    There are some attention-grabbing deadlines on this article but I don’t know if I see all of them heart to heart. There’s some validity however I’ll take maintain opinion till I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we would like more! Added to FeedBurner as well

  215. Boostaro

    13th March 2026 at 9:20 am

    I’ve recently started a blog, the info you offer on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.

  216. Gelatin Trick

    13th March 2026 at 2:00 pm

    I’ve recently started a blog, the information you offer on this web site has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.

  217. FLIXY TV STICK Reviews

    14th March 2026 at 1:26 am

    Outstanding post, I believe people should learn a lot from this blog its rattling user friendly.

  218. Gelatin Trick

    14th March 2026 at 4:48 am

    I really like your writing style, great information, thanks for putting up :D.

  219. Ingressos Village Rio Djonga

    15th March 2026 at 9:14 pm

    I believe this is one of the most vital info for me. And i’m glad studying your article. However wanna commentary on some common things, The web site style is great, the articles is in point of fact great :D. Good task, cheers

  220. direct to consumer marketing UK

    16th March 2026 at 3:15 am

    Thanks for the sensible critique. Me and my neighbor were just preparing to do a little research on this. We got a grab a book from our area library but I think I learned more from this post. I’m very glad to see such great info being shared freely out there.

  221. link slot

    16th March 2026 at 5:46 pm

    Hi there this is somewhat of off topic but I was wondering if blogs use WYSIWYG editors or if you have to manually code with HTML. I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding expertise so I wanted to get advice from someone with experience. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

  222. blog 888

    17th March 2026 at 12:31 am

    Yeah bookmaking this wasn’t a high risk conclusion great post! .

  223. china factory

    17th March 2026 at 1:58 am

    I will right away grab your rss feed as I can’t find your email subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you have any? Please let me know so that I could subscribe. Thanks.

  224. togel 4d

    17th March 2026 at 2:25 am

    Fascinating blog! Is your theme custom made or did you download it from somewhere? A theme like yours with a few simple tweeks would really make my blog shine. Please let me know where you got your theme. Kudos

  225. toto togel

    17th March 2026 at 1:03 pm

    Hello, you used to write wonderful, but the last several posts have been kinda boring?K I miss your tremendous writings. Past few posts are just a bit out of track! come on!

  226. nagaspin99 slot

    17th March 2026 at 8:27 pm

    You are my intake, I possess few web logs and sometimes run out from to post : (.

  227. data macau

    18th March 2026 at 3:00 am

    Nice read, I just passed this onto a friend who was doing some research on that. And he just bought me lunch since I found it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thanks for lunch!

  228. togel

    18th March 2026 at 4:26 am

    Nice post. I be taught something more challenging on totally different blogs everyday. It should at all times be stimulating to learn content from other writers and observe a bit something from their store. I’d favor to use some with the content on my weblog whether or not you don’t mind. Natually I’ll provide you with a hyperlink in your web blog. Thanks for sharing.

  229. rajabandot togel

    18th March 2026 at 9:30 am

    Hey very cool website!! Man .. Beautiful .. Amazing .. I’ll bookmark your website and take the feeds also…I’m happy to find numerous useful info here in the post, we need work out more strategies in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .

  230. mounja slim é bom pra obeso

    18th March 2026 at 11:11 am

    Its such as you learn my mind! You appear to understand so much about this, such as you wrote the e-book in it or something. I feel that you could do with some p.c. to pressure the message home a bit, however other than that, this is magnificent blog. A fantastic read. I’ll definitely be back.

  231. JKT8

    18th March 2026 at 1:20 pm

    Excellent read, I just passed this onto a colleague who was doing some research on that. And he actually bought me lunch because I found it for him smile Thus let me rephrase that: Thanks for lunch!

  232. I have read several good stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how much effort you put to create such a magnificent informative website.

  233. dewi11 slot

    18th March 2026 at 10:22 pm

    When I initially commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time a comment is added I get four emails with the same comment. Is there any way you can remove people from that service? Thanks!

  234. situs toto

    19th March 2026 at 4:15 am

    I truly treasure your work, Great post.

  235. My Brazilian Doctor Recife

    19th March 2026 at 12:30 pm

    I discovered your blog web site on google and verify a couple of of your early posts. Continue to keep up the very good operate. I simply extra up your RSS feed to my MSN Information Reader. Looking for ahead to reading extra from you later on!…

  236. gelatin trick

    20th March 2026 at 6:55 pm

    My wife and i were now happy Ervin managed to do his homework through the entire ideas he discovered out of the web page. It’s not at all simplistic just to always be giving for free tricks many others could have been trying to sell. So we realize we’ve got you to give thanks to for that. The most important explanations you made, the easy website menu, the friendships your site help promote – it’s many astonishing, and it is helping our son and the family reason why that issue is fun, and that’s exceptionally pressing. Many thanks for all!

  237. 💲 +1.81919285131 BTC Sign In ➽ 💲

    21st March 2026 at 10:30 am

    ud0g2w

  238. face scrubber

    21st March 2026 at 2:19 pm

    Does your site have a contact page? I’m having trouble locating it but, I’d like to send you an e-mail. I’ve got some suggestions for your blog you might be interested in hearing. Either way, great website and I look forward to seeing it improve over time.

  239. curso area judiciaria ce

    22nd March 2026 at 10:26 pm

    After study a few of the blog posts on your website now, and I truly like your way of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark website list and will be checking back soon. Pls check out my web site as well and let me know what you think.

  240. curso pratica advocacia imobiliaria

    23rd March 2026 at 12:51 am

    You have brought up a very superb points, thankyou for the post.

  241. slot resmi

    24th March 2026 at 12:44 am

    I definitely wanted to make a brief message so as to thank you for some of the fantastic advice you are giving out on this site. My extensive internet search has at the end been recognized with useful facts to share with my relatives. I ‘d claim that many of us readers are undoubtedly fortunate to dwell in a wonderful community with so many special people with very beneficial tricks. I feel truly grateful to have discovered your web page and look forward to really more cool times reading here. Thanks once more for all the details.

  242. bandar togel online

    24th March 2026 at 11:58 pm

    Thank you a lot for providing individuals with an extremely terrific opportunity to check tips from this website. It can be so nice and also stuffed with amusement for me personally and my office fellow workers to visit your site minimum thrice a week to read through the newest things you will have. And indeed, I’m also certainly fulfilled for the striking knowledge served by you. Some 3 facts in this post are in truth the simplest I’ve ever had.

  243. situs hk pools

    25th March 2026 at 2:36 am

    I am extremely impressed with your writing skills and also with the format to your weblog. Is this a paid topic or did you customize it yourself? Either way keep up the nice quality writing, it is rare to see a nice weblog like this one nowadays..

  244. gelatin trick diet

    25th March 2026 at 6:30 am

    My brother recommended I might like this blog. He was totally right. This post truly made my day. You can not imagine simply how much time I had spent for this information! Thanks!

  245. twin weighted blanket

    25th March 2026 at 6:22 pm

    I have been checking out some of your stories and it’s clever stuff. I will surely bookmark your site.

  246. My brother suggested I might like this web site. He was entirely right. This post actually made my day. You cann’t imagine simply how much time I had spent for this info! Thanks!

  247. antistax capsules

    27th March 2026 at 1:46 pm

    I’ve been browsing on-line more than 3 hours nowadays, but I by no means found any fascinating article like yours. It’s pretty price sufficient for me. Personally, if all site owners and bloggers made good content as you probably did, the net will probably be a lot more helpful than ever before. “Learn to see in another’s calamity the ills which you should avoid.” by Publilius Syrus.

  248. situs deposit pulsa 10k

    27th March 2026 at 3:29 pm

    The very crux of your writing while sounding agreeable in the beginning, did not work well with me after some time. Someplace within the sentences you actually managed to make me a believer unfortunately only for a very short while. I nevertheless have a problem with your leaps in assumptions and one might do well to fill in those gaps. When you can accomplish that, I will surely be amazed.

  249. dwg288

    28th March 2026 at 9:39 pm

    Nice weblog here! Additionally your web site so much up fast! What host are you using? Can I am getting your affiliate hyperlink for your host? I wish my web site loaded up as quickly as yours lol

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

KEO News Wire

Handre Pollard makes powerful Bulls & Boks statement

Handre Pollard converted the big moment penalty kicks to ensure the Bulls remain a United Rugby Championship play-off contender.

Published

on

By

Handre Pollard Bulls No 10

Handre Pollard converted the big moment penalty kicks to ensure the Bulls remain a United Rugby Championship play-off contender. Pollard made a powerful statement that he is integral to the Bulls title challenge and the Springboks 2027 World Cup defence.

Handre Pollard puts the boot into Munster

Pollard kicked two long range penalties in the final quarter that proved decisive in the Bulls 34-31 win against Munster at Loftus in Pretoria.

South Africa’s 2023 World Cup goal kicking hero, the scorer of all 12 points in the one point win against the All Blacks in the final, was used sparingly in the 2025 Springboks season. But be sure that Pollard remains massive to the Springboks and even bigger to the Bulls in their search for a first URC title after three losing finals in the league’s first four seasons.

The Bulls are eighth, well positioned to challenge for a top four finish when the URC resumes in the third week of April.

The Investec Champions Cup last 16 and last eight will be the focus in the first two weeks of April and Pollard will be pivotal to the last 16 match against Glasgow in Glasgow.

Keo’s Bulls Takeways

Potency in the scrum.

Ruan Nortje, the best lock in South Africa.

Embrose Papier, influential and brilliant at No 9.

Cheswill Jooste, the SA under 20 winger who will play for the Springboks this season.

Pollard, the master off the kicking tee, and all-round general.

Keo’s Lions Takeaways

The scrum

The composure

The defensive desire

The maturity in game management, courtesy of No 10 Chris Smith.

Quan Hỏrn, the most under appreciated fullback in South Africa.

Ruan Venter, he is the going to have a breakthrough international season.

The Bulls beat the Dragons 42-26, to be the first team to pass 400 points in the league this season.

The top five position is the best return after 14 rounds for the Lions in the history of the league.

Keo’s Stormers Takeaways

Evan Roos is the most consistent and best performing No 8 among the SA URC quartet.

Damian Willemse is good enough to play anywhere in the backline.

Scrum potency.

Paul de Villiers and Deon Fourie represent two generations, in age difference, among specialist flankers who play to the ball. In tandem, they could be the equal, in effectiveness, of George Smith and Phil Waugh for the Wallabies, when the Australians were world champions.

Individual brilliance and lethal transition play makes them a machine that can misfire for 65 minutes, only to turn a deficit into a 19 point win, as illustrated in the 33-14 win against Edinburgh in Cape Town.

The Stormers, with their 11th win of the league season, are second to Glasgow.

Keo’s Sharks Takeaways

JP Pietersen’s impact as head coach.

Andre Esterhuizen’s growth as captain and presence in the midfield.

Ox Nche and Vincent Koch’s power in the scrums.

The Sharks, thanks to Pietersen’s philosophy and approach, finally appreciating there is as much honour in making a tackle as there is glory in scoring a try.

Great mental resolves to beat Cardiff 21-15 and continue their league climb from 14th to 10th.

United Rugby Championship Table

Pos Team PTS PL W D L BP PF PA DIFF
1 Glasgow Warriors 55 14 11 0 3 11 389 197 192
2 DHL Stormers 51 14 11 0 3 7 378 239 139
3 Ulster 47 14 9 0 5 11 399 286 113
4 Leinster 46 14 9 0 5 10 361 299 62
5 Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 43 14 8 1 5 9 421 385 36
6 Cardiff Rugby 41 14 8 0 6 9 262 271 -9
7 Munster 41 14 8 0 6 9 279 304 -25
8 Vodacom Bulls 40 14 8 0 6 8 397 340 57
9 Connacht 39 14 7 0 7 11 336 326 10
10 Hollywoodbets Sharks 33 14 6 1 7 7 322 348 -26
11 Ospreys 30 14 5 2 7 6 293 325 -32
12 Benetton 28 14 5 2 7 4 257 331 -74
13 Edinburgh 23 14 4 0 10 7 269 340 -71
14 Scarlets 21 14 4 1 9 3 261 347 -86
15 Dragons RFC 21 14 2 3 9 7 274 357 -83
16 Zebre Parma 12 14 2 0 12 4 226 429 -203

 

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

The Stormers have made Cape Town South Africa’s rugby capital

Stormers crowd attendance at DHL Stadium tells the real story. Cape Town is South Africa’s rugby capital and the numbers back it.

Published

on

By

Cape Town is South Africa’s rugby capital – and the Stormers crowd attendance proves it. The numbers are bigger than any other club, and it goes beyond nostalgia and history. Newlands had 131 years to build its legacy and the DHL Stadium, in just five years, is producing bigger moments, bigger crowds and a stronger connection with the public.

Stormers crowd attendance: DHL Stadium, Cape Town numbers don’t lie

The Stormers moved homes from Newlands to Green Point in 2021, but significantly they have moved the market that speaks to an occasion more than it does a rugby match.

The Stormers have done it, post Covid, and in a competition that includes previously unfamiliar northern hemisphere club teams and playing some of their biggest derbies in late December and early January, a summer season peak that is incomparable in its challenge to anything experienced, season-wise, in Super Rugby’s history from 1996 to 2019.

Newlands & DHL Stadium 

Newlands averages (1996–2019)

Category Matches Average attendance
Stormers Super Rugby 157 33,189
WP Currie Cup 146 18,959
Springboks Tests 24 43,586

DHL Stadium – Stormers era

URC average attendance (last four seasons + 2021/22 play-offs*)

Season Matches Average attendance
2021/22 home play-offs* 3 27,100
2022/23 10 27,216
2023/24 7 28,531
2024/25 8 26,686
2025/26 6 29,375
Total (incl. play-offs) 34 27,733

* Covid-restricted capacity, but effectively full houses within permitted limits.

Investec Champions Cup average (last four seasons)

Season Matches Average attendance
2022/23 3 19,814
2023/24 3 21,725
2024/25 1 23,682
2025/26 1 24,893
4-season average 8 21,649

Springboks at DHL Stadium

Season Opposition Crowd
2023/24 Wales 51,347
2024/25 New Zealand 58,417
2025/26 Australia 56,350
Category Tests Average attendance
Springboks Tests at DHL Stadium 3 55,371
*45 000: The Springboks v Barbarians FC, 2025

 Stormers crowd attendance Cape Town the biggest days

DHL Stadium Top 10 Stormers crowds

Rank Crowd Opposition Season Competition Stage
1 56,334 Munster 2022/23 URC Final
2 53,682 Bulls 2025/26 URC League
3 52,087 Sharks 2025/26 URC League
4 47,261 Connacht 2022/23 URC Semi-final
5 47,171 Bulls 2024/25 URC League
6 46,002 Sharks 2024/25 URC League
7 44,109 Bulls 2022/23 URC Quarter-final
8 39,925 Bulls 2023/24 URC League
9 37,246 Sharks 2023/24 URC League
10 35,202 Lions 2023/24 URC League

Newlands Top 10 Stormers Super Rugby crowds

Rank Crowd Opposition Season Competition Stage
1 50,000 Highlanders 1999 Super Rugby Semi-final
2 49,725 Cats 1999 Super Rugby League
3 49,170 Chiefs 1999 Super Rugby League
4 49,000 Blues 1999 Super Rugby League
5 48,739 Bulls 2010 Super Rugby League
6 48,700 Brumbies 2002 Super Rugby League
7 48,492 Crusaders 2011 Super Rugby League
8 48,211 Bulls 2011 Super Rugby League
9 48,184 Crusaders 2010 Super Rugby League
10 48,026 Sharks 2012 Super Rugby Semi-final

 URC dominance Stormers lead South Africa

URC all-time league table (85 matches)

Rank Team Log Points
1 Leinster 328
2 Stormers 289
3 Glasgow 287
4 Bulls 280
5 Munster 269
6 Ulster 261
7 Sharks 221
8 Lions 214
9 Edinburgh 213
10 Connacht 210
11 Benetton 204
12 Ospreys 200
13 Cardiff 195
14 Scarlets 175
15 Dragons 88
16 Zebre 76

In the history of the URC, across 85 league matches, the Stormers are the most successful South African side and second only to Leinster overall. They are also the competition’s most successful finals team, with one title and two home finals. The Bulls have reached three finals – two away and one at home – and have yet to win the title.

Different season, bigger Stormers crowd attendance Cape Town

Super Rugby’s February start meant Capetonians were never asked to show up at a stadium to support the Stormers in December and January, in the heart of summer, holiday and cricket season, but those months are integral to the URC league season, especially South Africa’s derby matches.

This is a significant difference between the old world of Newlands and the new order at the DHL Stadium in 2026.

Newlands delivered its biggest crowds in traditional rugby windows, and the Stormers of the past five years have had to do it in peak holiday summer seasons, which shows the enormous shift in audience behaviour.

The people of Cape Town care about the Stormers and the Stormers care about the people of Cape Town.

No other team in South Africa and no team in the URC, the Irish giants of Leinster and Munster included, can claim such consistently high stadium numbers over such a lengthy period of time.

And only Leinster, in the brief history of the URC as a league, have earned more points from wins, draws and losing bonus points than the Stormers.

Cape Town is also a banker whenever the Springboks play, be it at Newlands, pre-2019 or in the three Tests played, in front of crowds, in the past four years.

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Bulls Finish. Stormers Create. Glasgow Lead

Bulls finish, Stormers create, and Glasgow lead the URC through balance and consistency.

Published

on

By

Bulls try-scoring machines. Paul de Wet and Canan Moodie of the Bulls celebrating a try against the Sharks in the URC (Photo by Anton Geyser/Gallo Images)

The Bulls know the way to the try line, the Stormers know how to get close to the try line and Glasgow’s Warriors are the most complete and balanced team in the 2025/26 URC team stats.

URC Team Stats: Bulls, Stormers, Lions and Sharks Compared

The Warriors are the league leaders after 13 rounds, with 10 wins from 13 and a total of 50 points. The Stormers are second with 10 wins and 46 points, while the Bulls, despite scoring the most tries this season, are eighth with seven wins and 34 points.

The URC official Team Stats emphasise the potency of Franco Smith’s Warriors, who have also shown quality in squad depth to produce winning results in matches when stripped of their Six Nations internationals.

Smith, the former Springboks utility back and Cheetahs and Italian coach, has been a revelation at Glasgow. He, in partnership with South African-born winger and club captain Kyle Steyn, have been at the forefront of Glasgow’s growth into one of the best teams in Europe.

Glasgow, in the 2023/24 season, beat the Bulls at Loftus in Pretoria to win the third edition of the URC.

This season’s league showcases the Bulls try-scoring ability, exposes their charitable early season defensive form, and illustrates just how dominant the Stormers are in getting close to the opposition try line, but equally how impotent they are in converting those opportunities once in the 22 metres attack red zone.

The Stormers have had no issue in applying pressure, given they are second for entries into the opposition 22 (150), but it is their failure to convert this earned advantage into tries.

The Lions have gone big on volume and the Sharks, the lowest of the South Africa teams with an 11th place league ranking, are chasing consistency and a winning habit since JP Pietersen replaced John Plumtree as the Sharks coach.

The Glasgow Warriors lead the table and the key performance metrics, combining territory, possession and execution better than any side in the competition.

The Bulls know how to cross the try line, the Stormers are battling to find their way to the try line and the Warriors have married pressure and points scored to top the league.

URC 2026 Team Stats – South African Rankings

Total Tries Scored

Team Rank Total
Vodacom Bulls 1 54
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 4 51
Hollywoodbets Sharks 6 45
DHL Stormers 8 43

Total Points Scored

Team Rank Total
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 1 379
Vodacom Bulls 3 363
DHL Stormers 5 345
Hollywoodbets Sharks 8 301

Total Metres Gained

Team Rank Total
Vodacom Bulls 2 5611
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 6 5009
DHL Stormers 11 4112
Hollywoodbets Sharks 13 3955

Total Entries into Opposition 22

Team Rank Total
DHL Stormers 2 150
Vodacom Bulls 5 137
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 6 134
Hollywoodbets Sharks 11 125

Total Turnovers Won / Defensive Impact

Team Rank Total
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 4 316
Vodacom Bulls 7 275
Hollywoodbets Sharks 10 249
DHL Stormers 12 245

Keo’s 10 Takeaways

  1. The Bulls are the best finishers in the URC – first for tries scored (54).

  2. The Bulls’ attack is built on momentum – second for metres gained (5611).

  3. The Stormers are excellent at creating try-scoring pressure points – second for 22 entries (150).

  4. The Stormers don’t always convert that pressure into points.

  5. The Lions are the competition’s top scorers, with some big scores at home  – first for total points (379).

  6. The Lions’ game is built on tempo and attacking volume, Ellis Park’s fast pace surface, attitude & altitude.

  7. The Sharks are outside the top tier across the key metrics, which is a reinforcement of their awful start to the season.

  8. No South African team dominates the defensive categories because their attack has been stronger and they have won more than they have lost.

  9. Glasgow lead the competition for metres gained (5873) and overall control metrics.

  10. Glasgow and the Stormers are strong in very different areas, for example the Stormers kick volume and effectiveness compared to Glasgow’s. Equally Glasgow’s ball in hand game, but the reality is that both have 10 wins from 13 and the points differential is less three points on average a game.

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Magical Mapimpi is the STECO Hybrid Power Tool Hero

Makazole Mapimpi needed a magical moment to beat Nizaam Carr’s outrageous kick assist for the Bulls in Round 13 of the URC to be named the STECO Hybrid Power Tool Hero of the Week.

Published

on

By

Makazole Mapimpi 21 Mar 2026 Steve Haag Gallo Images

Makazole Mapimpi needed a magical moment to beat Nizaam Carr’s outrageous kick assist for the Bulls in Round 13 of the URC to be named the STECO Hybrid Power Tool Hero of the Week.

Makazole Mapimpi Magic

Mapimpi, the Sharks winger, celebrated his 100th match in style, although it took him 78 minutes to produce the most sensational individual two minutes, with his reward being two tries of varying degrees of brilliance.

Mapimpi, the first Springbok to score a try in a World Cup final, bagged a double in the final stages of the Sharks 45-0 thumping of Ireland’s Munster.

The win was the Sharks’ third in their last four URC matches. The Sharks play Cardiff in Durban on Friday evening in Round 14.

On the Keo & Zels Rugby Show, Zels and I discussed the nominations and why Mapimpi got our nod.

ZELS:
That Stormers scrum absolutely obliterated the Dragons tight five, and Evan Roos was on hand to pick up and dive over. Sensational try. That’s a proper team try for me, with everyone involved. That’s the hybrid element, right? Power, but skill within it.

KEO:
You talk about hybrid. It is more like one tool doing many things. That Stormers pack did everything. From loosehead to tighthead, hooker, both locks, six, seven, eight. This was the full unit.

Then you look at the Bulls.

Nizaam Carr, Bishops old boy and former Stormers, has been outstanding. That kick-assist was sensational. That’s a footballer’s touch. Like a corner kick dropping onto the head of a striker. Perfect weight, perfect execution. Five points.

ZELS:
So you’re going with Carr?

KEO:
I was because I did not think anything or anyone would match it over the weekend because it takes something special to beat that for the STECO Hybrid Power Tool Hero of the Week.

And then, Sharks v Munster, 79 minutes played and enter Makazole Mapimpi.

He scores a try and everyone celebrates, “finally got one.” But look deeper. He didn’t see much ball. Worked relentlessly. It’s his 100th. He’s 35, looks 19. The physique, the engine…

He leaps high from he kick-off, takes it clean, lands, beats two, goes again; inside, outside and then those final five metres. Munster’s 10 comes across, makes the tackle attempt… Mapimpi finishes.

That’s the moment. That’s the one.

And the irony? He’s wearing 11. Andre Esterhuizen – the STECO ambassador – is at 12. And Mike Sharman from Retroviral, who work with STECO Ryobi, they’ve told Mapimpi’s story it’s on YouTube.

Go watch it.

Then I get a message from Richard Stevens, Marketing Head, Stevens & Co, saying how fitting it is: 11 and 12, powered by them STECO/RYOBI doing the business for the Sharks … and Mapimpi delivers that.

Richard, there should be something in the post for Mapimpi, via courier.

ZELS:
I agree. Something powerful to keep powering him.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Keo_Zels_Show (@keo_zels_show)


ANDRE ESTERHUIZEN IS THE ULTIMATE STECO HYBRID POWER TOOL, ON AND OFF THE FIELD

Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images

 

 

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Sacha’s stats statement slays Dragons

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu slayed the Dragons in Cape Town and his match statistics emphasised his influence in the Stormers bonus-point win against Newport’s Dragons.

Published

on

By

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu 2 22 March 2026 Ashley Vlotman Gallo Images

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu slayed the Dragons in Cape Town and his match statistics emphasised his influence in the Stormers bonus-point win against Newport’s Dragons.

Stormers v Dragons – United Rugby Championship

The Stormers 29-21 win was their 10th in 13 league starts and ensured they finished Round 13 in second place, four points off league leaders Glasgow, whom they play in Cape Town in April.

Stormers No 10 Feinberg-Mngomezulu scored the match’s opening two tries, which he converted for 14 points, but as memorable were a try-saving tackle late in the first half and second half defensive moment of mastery to deny the Dragons a further try. His points totalled 19, with three conversions and a penalty added to his two five-pointers, but the 14 points he saved, tells the story of his significance against the Dragons.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu made 13 kicks and 13 passes, claimed a line out win statistically from a quick throw and won a ruck turnover, one of just four for the Stormers in 80 minutes. He made seven tackles to complete a busy and big defensive afternoon.

On attack, he made the most metres in the match, with 78, beat three defenders, which was the second most of the match, carried the ball nine times and his three line breaks were the most in the match.

His 19 points took his league season tally to 81 points in his eighth match of the league. His URC career total is 17 tries, four drop goals, 30 penalties and 47 conversions, for 281 points. He has started 27 of 44 URC matches.

He has played four Investec Champions Cup matches and his overall Stormers record is 31 starts in 48 matches for 308 points, with 17 tries, four drop goals, 33 penalties and 56 conversions. He is 24 years-old.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu was named the 2024/25 South African Vodacom United Rugby Championship Player of the Year beating off Bulls prop Wilco Louw and Bulls loose-forward Cameron Hanekom for the prize.

The counter to those match-winning statistical returns against the Dragons, was a speculator pass to Damian Willemse that was not a good option and twice missing penalty kicks to touch. His four from six off the kicking tee has matched his league accuracy this season, which is 10 percent down on his 75 percent-plus career average as a goal kicker.

URC 2026 League Table (After Round 13)

Pos Team P W D L BP PF PA Diff Pts
1 Glasgow Warriors 13 10 0 3 10 358 187 +171 50
2 DHL Stormers 13 10 0 3 6 345 225 +120 46
3 Ulster Rugby 13 8 0 5 10 371 274 +97 42
4 Leinster Rugby 13 8 0 5 9 325 280 +45 41
5 Cardiff Rugby 13 8 0 5 8 247 250 -3 40
6 Munster Rugby 13 8 0 5 7 248 270 -22 39
7 Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 13 7 1 5 8 379 359 +20 38
8 Vodacom Bulls 13 7 0 6 7 363 309 +54 35
9 Connacht Rugby 13 6 0 7 11 315 312 +3 35
10 Ospreys 13 5 2 6 5 279 304 -25 29
11 Hollywoodbets Sharks 13 5 1 7 7 301 333 -32 29
12 Benetton Rugby 13 5 2 6 4 247 300 -53 28
13 Edinburgh Rugby 13 4 0 9 7 255 307 -52 23
14 Scarlets 13 4 1 8 3 242 311 -69 21
15 Dragons RFC 13 2 3 8 6 248 315 -67 20
16 Zebre Parma 13 2 0 11 4 214 401 -187 12

Stormers No 8 Evan Roos also enjoy a busy afternoon. He scored a try to take his league season tally to seven, but it was the balance in his attack and defence that was most telling. Roos carried 14 times, the most in the match, and made 11 tackles, which was the most from a Stormers player.

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Mapimpi & Van den Berg gives Saffas 100 reasons to smile

Makazole Mapimpi & Morne van den Berg celebrated their 100th matches for the Sharks and Lions in style and triumphant. It made for a Super Saturday of rugby for Saffas as the Sharks and Lions both won against Munster and Edinburgh respectively in the United Rugby Championship.

Published

on

By

Makazole Mapimpi 21 Mar 2026 Steve Haag Gallo Images

Makazole Mapimpi & Morne van den Berg celebrated their 100th matches for the Sharks and Lions in style and triumphant. It made for a Super Saturday of United Rugby Championship action for Saffas.

Magnificent Mapimpi

Mapimpi, in his 100th match, scored two tries in the final two minutes of the 45-0 hammering of Munster in Durban.

The 35 year-old showed the pace of a teenager sprint sensation when outstripping the Munster chasers for his first try, scored in the 78th minute.

Then, remarkably, he lept into the Durban skies from the final restart of the match, landed open two feet, beat two defenders with a step, took off down the touchline, swerved inside, beat a defender, then outside and put on the afterburners to race the remaining 40 metres and finish a 70 metre solo-try with two Munster defenders on his back.

This was from a 35 year old in his 100th match. It was straight from a movie.

Earlier, Van den Berg, so good this season for the Lions, controlled the match in the No 9 jersey as the Lions, SA Shield winners, crushed Edinburgh 54-17. The Lions led 35-0 at halftime and scored eight tries to three.

Van den Berg scored a try to take his career tally for the Lions to 20.

The Lions scored eight tries to three, the Sharks six tries to nil and the Bulls, on Friday night, scored seven tries to one, to take the South African try-tally to 21-4 with the Stormers v Dragons on Sunday afternoon in Cape Town sure to add to the 21 tries.

For context, the travelling sides were without incumbent Six Nations regulars, which highlighted the depth issues when Test players are not available.

Still, it was statements made by the South African teams with five rounds of the league to play.

The Stormers, Lions and Bulls, are well positioned to make the play-offs and the Stormers are chasing a top two, with the other two hunting a top four.

The Sharks remain 11th in the URC but they are now three wins from their last four league matches, having won just two from their first nine matches.

Keo’s Top 10 Takeaways

No. Takeaway
1 Full-strength South African teams at home are overwhelming understrength touring sides
2 The Sharks, Lions and Bulls have all shown significant defensive improvement
3 The Sharks kept Munster scoreless a complete defensive shutout
4 The Bulls scored 40 unanswered points and kept Cardiff scoreless for the final 77 minutes
5 The Lions held Edinburgh scoreless for 45 minutes after a 35-0 halftime lead
6 Ruan Venter delivered a standout performance at No 4 lock for the Lions one that will please Rassie Erasmus
7 Cameron Hanekom made an impactful 24-minute return for the Bulls after a nine-month injury lay-off
8 The Lions midfield pairing of Bronson Mills and Henco van Wyk continues to evolve with authority
9 The Sharks scrum has become a dominant weapon
10 Nineteen-year-old Sharks fullback Luan Giliomee, a former schoolboy flyhalf standout at Charlie Hofmeyr and Boland, made a composed debut

 

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Papier in power performance as Bulls charge in URC

Bulls No 9 Embrose Papier responded to his omission from the Springboks alignment camp in the best possible way, with another Player of the Match performance in the URC.

Published

on

By

Embrose Papier stars for Bulls against Cardiff in URC Photo: Anton Geyser Gallo Images

Bulls No 9 Embrose Papier responded to his omission from the Springboks alignment camp in the best possible way, with another Player of the Match performance in the URC.

Papier was proper in the Bulls 40-7 win against Cardiff in the URC at Loftus, Pretoria, having been a late withdrawal a week ago against the Stormers a week ago.

The Bulls lost to the Stormers and Papier’s absence was obvious.

Against Cardiff he was at the heart of everything good about the Bulls attack, was individually decisive and composed, produced consistency in his kicking game management, electric pace for his try and was always a threat on the break, especially close to the fringes of the ruck.

Rassie Erasmus picked Papier for the Springboks in 2018, but it has been seven long years in-between drinks for the Bulls No 9.

In this time Erasmus, coach in 2018, Jacques Nienaber, coached between 2020 and 2023 and Erasmus, back as head coach from 2024, have relied on Faf de Klerk, Herschel Jantjies and Cobus Reinach to win the 2019 RWC and on De Klerk, Reinach, Grant Williams and Jaden Hendrikse to win the 2023 RWC.

Nienaber and Erasmus (National Director of Rugby) picked all four No 9s in the match 23 that beat Romania 76-0 at the World Cup. Reinach started at No 9, Williams started on the right wing and Hendrikse was the reserve No 9 and De Klerk the reserve No 10 and goalkicker.

In the 2024 and 2025 Test seasons, Lions No 9 Morné van den Berg played Test rugby and in Erasmus’s first Springboks alignment camp for 2025, earlier in March, SA under 20 World Championship winner Haashim Pead was included in a group of No 9s, while De Klerk and Jantjies were among the overseas-based players selected for a virtual alignment camp.

De Klerk, who spent a lengthy time on the sidelines because of injury, found form in scoring three tries for the Yokohama Canon Eagles’ 38-29 win against Dave Rennie’s Japanese League 1 log-leading Kobelco Kobe Steelers. He was named Player of the Match.

Jantjies has started nine of 15 matches for French Top 14 club Bayonne.

De Klerk has signed to return to South Africa and play for the Cheetahs after five seasons in Japan. Before Japan he played for Sale Sharks in Manchester, England, having made his Test debut when playing for the Johannesburg-based Lions.

In 2018 the then Bulls No 9 Ivan van Zyl and Lions No 9 Ross Cronje were also selected for the Boks.

Papier, a Bulls Centurion, has started 10 of 14 matches for the club this season, 11 in the United Rugby Championship and three in the Investec Champions Cup, and has scored six tries.

Papier made his Test debut in 2018. He has not played for the Boks again since 2018.

He is still just 28 years-old

SH Rugby Blog, back in 2018, asked if Papier was not trusted by Erasmus, given the minimal game time.

List of games in which Papier was in the Match Day 23, and his minutes played

Date Opponent Detail
June 2, 2018 Wales 4 minutes at wing, Washington DC (Springbok debut)
June 2018 England Not in matchday 23 for first two Tests
June 23, 2018 England 5 minutes at scrumhalf, Cape Town (3rd Test)
August 18, 2018 Argentina 7 minutes at wing, Durban
August 25, 2018 Argentina Unused substitute, Mendoza
September 8, 2018 Australia Unused substitute, Brisbane
September 15, 2018 New Zealand Replaced in matchday 23 by Ross Cronjé (unused), Wellington
September 29, 2018 Australia Unused substitute, Port Elizabeth
October 6, 2018 New Zealand 7 minutes at scrumhalf, Pretoria
November 3, 2018 England 6 minutes at scrumhalf, London
November 2018 France Not in matchday 23

Papier, on the 17th November, 2018, finally got to start against Scotland at Murrayfield and played for 78 minutes. The Boks won 26-20, with Handre Pollard scoring 18 points and Elton Jantjies kicking a late penalty to secure the win. Of the Boks match 23 of that day, 19 went onto win the World Cup, left winger Aphiwe Dyantyi was banned for testing positive, right winger Sbu Nkosi lost form and his appetite for rugby, beset by off-field disciplinary issues, Van Zyl found a future at Saracens in the English Premiership and Papier was sent back to the Bulls.

South Africa: Willie le Roux, Sbu Nkosi, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Aphiwe Dyantyi, Handre Pollard, Embrose Papier; Steven Kitshoff, Malcolm Marx, Frans Malherbe, RG Snyman, Franco Mostert, Siya Kolisi (captain), Pieter-Steph du Toit, Duane Vermeulen.

Replacements: Bongi Mbonambi (for Marx, 66), Thomas du Toit (for Kitshoff, 58), Vincent Koch (for Malherbe, 58), Lood de Jager (for Snyman, 60), Francois Louw (for Kolisi, 66), Ivan van Zyl (for Papier, 78), Elton Jantjies (for De Allende, 56), Cheslin Kolbe (for Nkosi, 64).

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

URC Influence Index: The Top 10 SA players

The URC Influence Index ranks the 10 most impactful players after 12 rounds, based on attacking, defensive, set-piece and tactical metrics.

Published

on

By

SA players are leading the URC Influence Index after 12 league rounds.

WHAT IS THE URC INFLUENCE INDEX? 

Players are ranked based on verified appearances across multiple high-impact categories in the URC:

  • Attack: defenders beaten, metres, breaks, offloads

  • Defence: tackles, turnovers won

  • Set-piece: lineouts, steals

  • Game control: kicking metres, points, goal-kicking

 The more categories a player influences statistically, the higher the ranking.

URC TOP 10 SA INFLUENCE INDEX (AFTER 12 ROUNDS)

1. Sebastian de Klerk (Wing/Centre, Bulls)

The competition’s most complete attacking player

  • 41 defenders beaten

  • 607 metres

  • 17 clean breaks

  • 15 offloads

De Klerk appears across four elite attacking categories, the most among South African players.

Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images

2. Chris Smith (No 10, Lions)

The URC’s scoreboard controller

  • 92 points (1st)

  • 25 conversions (1st)

  • 14 penalties

  • 1934 kick metres

3. Quan Horn (Fullback, Lions)

Horn’s balance in all areas is his strength

  • 2529 kick metres (2nd)

  • 494 metres

  • 96 carries

  • 13 offloads

4. Jeandre Rudolph (No 8, Bulls)

Breakdown King

  • 16 turnovers won (1st)

  • 112 tackles

Rudolph is the league’s elite jackal.

5. Marnus van der Merwe (Hooker, Cardiff)

Hybrid in his impact as a hooker

  • 85 lineouts won

  • 12 turnovers

6. Andre-Hugo Venter (Hooker, Stormers)

Set-piece anchor

  • 105 lineouts won (1st)

Dominates in contact and carries strongly

7. RG Snyman (Lock, Leinster)

Continuity machine

  • 20 offloads (joint 1st)

Unrivalled in the league with his offloading influence

8. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (No 10, Stormers)

The emerging game driver

  • 62 points

  • 2089 kick metres

  • 70 kicks in play

  • 10 clean breaks

Strong line kicking game, lethal in line break efficiency.

Photo: Gallo Images

9. Evan Roos (No 8, Stormers)

The Finisher

  • 6 tries

  • 97 carries

Plays with high risk and high reward.

Photo: Gallo Images

10. Vincent Tshituka (Flank, Sharks)

The Lineout Disruptor

  • 8 steals (1st)

The statistics tell the story of his value

Photo: Gallo Images

Players just outside the SA Top 10 

  • Werner Kok (wing, Ulster): breaks + offloads + tries

  • Johann Grobbelaar (hooker, Bulls): lineouts + tries

  • Paul de Villiers (flank, Stormers): tackles + turnovers

  • Ruan Venter (Flank, Lions): carries + tries

SET PIECE: SOUTH AFRICA’S STRANGLEHOLD

Lineout leaders

Player Lineouts Won
Andre-Hugo Venter 105
Johann Grobbelaar 92
Marnus van der Merwe 85

Lineout steals (SA presence)

Player Steals
Vincent Tshituka 8
Marcel Theunissen 6
Emile van Heerden 5
Marvin Orie 4

South Africa dominates the Influence Index.

  • 10/10 players in top 10

  • Leading in:

    • lineouts

    • turnovers

    • offloads

    • points

    • territorial kicking

  • THE BREAKDOWN: TURNOVERS WON (SA IMPACT)

    Player Turnovers Won
    Jeandre Rudolph 16
    Marnus van der Merwe 12
    Paul de Villiers 9
Continue Reading

International Rugby

Bielle-Biarrey owns the Six Nations stats sheet

In the 2026 Six Nations, France winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey owned the stats charts. Nine tries, four assists and a presence across ten statistical categories tell the real story of France’s title.

Published

on

By

Louis Bielle-Biarrey Six Nations 2026 top try scorer France. Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images

The Six Nations 2026 stats sheet was owned by France’s magnificent left winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey, with teammate Thomas Ramos the best of the many support acts within the squad that won the Six Nations title.

Ramos, without comparison off the kicking tee, kicked a penalty after the final buzzer, to beat England 48-46 in Paris, and ensure France were not denied a second successive Six Nations title.

Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images

The win was France’s 10th European title (Five Nations/Six Nations) in the last 30 years.

France’s Five and Six Nations titles since professionalism began in 1996

Year Competition Title type
1997 Five Nations Winners
1998 Five Nations Grand Slam
2002 Six Nations Grand Slam
2004 Six Nations Grand Slam
2006 Six Nations Winners
2007 Six Nations Winners
2010 Six Nations Grand Slam
2022 Six Nations Grand Slam
2025 Six Nations Winners
2026 Six Nations Winners

*Grand Slam indicates an unbeaten tournament.

Six Nations 2026 stats

Bielle-Biarrey’s nine tournament tries in 2026 is a record, and he is the first player to score in every match in two successive Six Nations campaigns. He has 18 Six Nations tries in 14 matches, with retired Ireland centre Brian O’Driscoll’s Six Nations record of 26 tries having come in 65 matches.

His strike rate is unmatched at Test level, with 29 tries from 27 Test matches.

Bielle-Biarrey, supreme as a try-scoring finisher, was everywhere the game lived.

Top of the try charts. Among the leaders for metres made. Present in try assists. Leading initial breaks. High in metres per carry. Involved in attacking catch success. Even appearing in the kicking metrics.

Bielle-Biarrey, who played every minute of the Six Nations, featured in 10 categories.

His back three teammate Ramos was as good, in a different way. Ramos featured in eight categories: Carries, metres, offloads, assists and, crucially, points. Ramos missed just four kicks at posts in 32, for an 88% return. He was also the tournament’s leading points scorer and one of the busiest players on attack.

France No 10 Matthieu Jalibert, who played four of the five matches, was top of the offloads, try assist and in the top bracket for defenders beaten. Add in his kicking influence, in tandem with captain and scrum half Antoine Dupont, and Jalibert is prominent in seven categories.

If France owned the attacking narrative, Ireland’s No 12 Stuart McCloskey owned the gainline. Seven categories tell the story: carries, offloads, assists, defenders beaten, dominant contact, post-contact metres and turnovers. There was no cleaner or more complete midfield presence in the tournament. Every carry broke the initial wall and every collision advanced Ireland’s attack.

The little generals in Dupont and Wales’s Tomos Williams don’t dominate tries, but they dominate territory. Kicks in play, kick metres, box kicks, retained kicks meant both No 9s are leading contributors in six categories.

Italy’s mighty midfielder Tommaso Menoncello  has a presence in six categories: Metres made. Defenders beaten. Initial breaks. Turnovers, Jakkals and Metres per carry. He was as consistent in his defence and attack and his Six Nations will be remembered for the try and try assist in Italy’s historic first win against England in Rome in Round 4.

England’s Ben Earl is the forward outlier. Leading carries. Leading post-contact metres. Dominant in contact. A four-category presence in a game that increasingly separates roles. He is the closest England has to a proper hybrid international player. Earl, best at No 8, can also play in the midfield.

Scotland’s versatile winger and Glasgow Warriors captain Kyle Steyn. The South African born former Stellenbosch University and Griquas star was a standout in defenders beaten, top tier in metres made and elite in metres per carry. Steyn enjoyed his most influential tournament, and was strong in Scotland’s wins against England and France at Murrayfield in Edinburgh.

Multi-Category Leaders – Six Nations 2026

Player Categories Featured
Louis Bielle-Biarrey 10
Thomas Ramos 8
Matthieu Jalibert 7
Stuart McCloskey 7
Antoine Dupont 6
Tomos Williams 6
Tommaso Menoncello 6
Ben Earl 4
Kyle Steyn 4
2026 Final Six Nations Table
Pos Team P W L BP PD Pts
1 France 5 4 1 5 +81 21
2 Ireland 5 4 1 3 +38 19
3 Scotland 5 3 2 4 -1 16
4 Italy 5 2 3 1 -38 9
5 England 5 1 4 4 +2 8
6 Wales 5 1 4 2 -82 6
Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

SA Schools Rugby: The Springbok Factory

South African schools rugby is the foundation of the Springboks, with historic derbies like Paarl Boys High vs Paarl Gimnasium showcasing the intensity, tradition and talent pipeline that defines the game.

Published

on

By

SA Schools rugby derby between Paarl Boys High and Paarl Gimnasium showcasing South Africa’s top schoolboy rugby rivalry

The road to 100 Springbok Test caps does not start with a professional contract. It starts at SA Schools Rugby and South Africa is blessed to have among the most powerful rugby-centric schooling institutions. The result is nine Test Centurions and four RWC titles and two third place finishes in eight tournaments since the Springboks won the 1995 World Cup on their first attempt.

SA Schools Rugby

South African rugby starts on school fields in Paarl, Newlands, Durbanville, Stellenbosch, Bloemfontein, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town, where reputations are made long before players earn contracts, caps or salaries.

This is where the edge is built, with rivalries more than 100 years old. This is where the journey of the greatest Springboks began and it is the playground of future Springboks and South Africa’s professional rugby elite.

Photo: Paul Kane/Gallo Images

The scale of the system is unmatched globally: structured leagues, nationally broadcast derbies, Easter festivals that act as early-season measuring sticks, and the annual Coca-Cola Craven Week, which remains the definitive pathway into SA Schools selection.

The Premier Schools: The heavyweights of South African rugby.

There is no officially sanctioned national ranking body in South African schools rugby. However, multiple independent platforms compile results-based rankings using fixtures, strength of schedule and head-to-head outcomes.

The most widely referenced is NextGenXV, whose final 2025 rankings are also incorporated into broader consensus rankings by platforms such as SchoolboyRugby (which combines data from NextGenXV, SA School Sports and Rugby365).

Top 20 Schools (Results-based – 2025 Final Ranking)

Rank School
1 Paarl Boys’ High
2 Paarl Gimnasium
3 Grey College
4 Affies
5 Oakdale Landbou
6 Westville
7 Paul Roos Gymnasium
8 DHS
9 Garsfontein
10 Rondebosch
11 Helpmekaar
12 Outeniqua
13 Hilton College
14 Wynberg
15 Stellenberg
16 Menlopark
17 Northwood
18 Noordheuwel
19 Boland Landbou
20 Queen’s College


The Western Cape dominates the depth conversation. Free State has Grey College and the Eastern Cape has heritage. Gauteng and KZN bring muscle, but no province matches the Western Cape for weekly jeopardy and top-20 spread.

Western Province: The Deepest Schools League in the Country

South African schools rugby’s heart beats the loudest in the Western Cape.

On a single WP Schools Day card in 2026, you get: Paarl Boys, Paarl Gim, Paul Roos, SACS, Bishops, Rondebosch, Wynberg, Boland Landbou, Durbanville and Stellenberg.

In the 2025 Top 20 rankings, the Western Cape placed eight schools in the top tier, including Paarl Boys, Paarl Gim, Oakdale, Paul Roos, Rondebosch and Wynberg.

No province produces pressure like this and no province produces Springboks like this. It is borne out by how Western Province dominated the annual Coca Cola Craven Week.

FNB Classic Clashes & King Price Derby Series

South African schoolboy rugby attracts some of the biggest sponsors, with FNB having the longest association with Schools Rugby. The additional exposure, through SuperSport’s live coverage of Schools 1st XV matches has added to the value of commercial alignment with Schools rugby.

The SuperSport Schools app has exceeded one million downloads.

The FNB Classic Clashes, launched in the early 2000s, grew from 10 fixtures to more than 50 nationwide, becoming a cornerstone of school rugby broadcasting on SuperSport Schools.

Today, the King Price Derby Series carries that torch, packaging the biggest rivalries into a national viewing product built on history, tribalism and crowd energy.

This is where schoolboy rugby becomes appointment viewing.

The Biggest Schoolboy Derbies in South Africa

This is the soul of the South African game.

Paarl Boys’ High vs Paarl Gimnasium

  • Crowd: 20,000+ regularly

  • Described as the biggest schoolboy derby in the world

Grey College vs Paul Roos Gymnasium

  • Two of the biggest Springbok-producing schools combined

Bishops vs Rondebosch

  • Bishops leads historic wins (103 vs 80, with 19 draws recorded)

Jeppe vs KES

  • Over 100 meetings; rivalry dates back to 1935

Affies vs Waterkloof

  • Began in 1987; Affies dominant historically

Hilton vs Michaelhouse

  • Played since 1904; one of KZN’s big rivalries

SACS vs Wynberg

  • Among the oldest Cape school rivalries

Boland Landbou vs Oakdale

  • The farmers’ derby physical, proud and unforgiving

Easter Rugby Festivals: The National Measuring Stick

The four major national festivals:

  • Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival

  • KES Easter Rugby Festival

  • St John’s College Easter Festival

  • St Stithians Easter Festival

  • Graeme College WildeKlawer Rugby Festival

Craven Week: Where Schoolboys Become Internationals

First played in 1964, the Coca-Cola Craven Week remains the pinnacle of schoolboy rugby.

At the end of the tournament:

  • SA Schools is selected

  • SA Schools ‘A’ is selected

The Schools That Built the Springboks

Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images

Most Springboks Produced by School

Source:

Rank School Springboks
1 Paul Roos Gymnasium 56
2 Grey College 49
3 Bishops 43
4 Paarl Gimnasium 32
5 SACS 32
6 Paarl Boys’ High 26
7 Kimberley Boys High 23
8 Rondebosch 21
9 Grey High School 17
10 Maritzburg College 17


The Western Cape production line of Springboks is unmatched.

Springbok Test Centurions and Their Schools

Springbok Test Centurions, by their School

Player Tests School
Eben Etzebeth 141 Tygerberg
Victor Matfield 127 Pietersburg
Bryan Habana 124 KES
Tendai Mtawarira 117 Peterhouse (Zimbabwe)
John Smit 111 Pretoria Boys High
Jean de Villiers 109 Paarl Gimnasium
Siya Kolisi 103 Grey High
Percy Montgomery 102 SACS *
Willie le Roux 101 Paul Roos

*2007 World Cup winner Percy Montgomery, SACS, was the first Springboks Test Centurion. 

Photo: Duif du Toit / Gallo Images

Continue Reading

International Rugby

From bolter to banished: Augustus defines Bok 2026 omissions

Published

on

By

Juarno Augustus Ulster URC

The Springboks 2026 alignment camp is, by definition, Rassie Erasmus naming his best 70 players. That is the starting point for any analysis, and it is why the omission of Juarno Augustus is the story.

Springboks 2026 alignment camp

A year ago ‘Trokkie’ Augustus was the bolter.

He forced his way into the 2025 alignment camp on the back of consistent performances in Europe, carrying with authority and playing with the kind of physical edge that traditionally translates to Springbok rugby. His inclusion suggested momentum and acknowledgement from Erasmus that the player, formerly of the Stormers, had moved from the periphery into genuine national contention.

Augustus made the on-field statement playing for Northampton Saints, but never made it to the Springboks camp because he had not passed a transfer medical to Ulster at the time.

Post this injury-enforced failed medical, Augustus moved to Ulster and has been a strong influence when fit. He had been on the sidelines in early 2026 but showed no rust in dominating the collisions as Ulster beat Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship last weekend.

Augustus, in the 2025/26 season, has started seven of nine matches for Ulster, with an average playing time of 54 minutes. He has played seven URC matches and two EPCR Challenge Cup matches.

In 2024/25, he started 15 of Northampton’s 19 matches, averaged 56 minutes a game, went past 1000 on-field minutes and was a star performer as the Saints marched toward the Investec Champions Cup final. Augustus missed the losing final against Bordeaux because of injury, but was fabulous in the semi-final win against Leinster at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Less than a year ago, Augustus, a former Junior Springboks Player of the Year, was a headline for all the right reasons. This week, his omission is the headline, given just a few days ago he was named Player of the Match 

It does not seem like a minor selection call from Erasmus.

In a system where the alignment camp reflects the coach’s thinking and pretty much his strongest available player pool, absence is definitive. Augustus has not been managed out. On the surface he has been left out, and the distinction matters. It tells you that, right now, he is not viewed as one of the leading options at No 8 or within the broader loose forward mix.

And that is where the context becomes important.

The Springboks are not short on depth in the back row. Established internationals remain in the system, while younger players have been backed through consistent exposure and selection. The competition among No 8 options is intense and Erasmus never selects on sentiment or for the sake of a good news story.

What is perplexing is what has changed regarding Augustus because his on-field performances remain as imposing as they did a year ago.

Erasmus has omitted players from alignment camps previously and picked them to play Test rugby that season.

The exclusion, this week when Erasmus named a virtual alignment camp group of overseas-based South African players eligible for the Boks, does not mean the door is locked, but it certainly doesn’t promise an easy way back in when the reality is that Erasmus has invited 70 players to his two respective camps, 49 for the early March camp in Cape Town, and a further 21 for the virtual camp.

Six players drop out of the Springboks 2026 alignment camp from 2025, but it is the absence of Augustus that defines the shift – from bolter to outside the Bok top 70.

 

2025 vs 2026 – Players OUT

Forwards omitted (2025 → not in 2026)

Player Position 2025 Status 2026 Status Note
Juarno Augustus No 8 Virtual camp (overseas) ❌ Omitted Biggest omission
Vincent Koch Prop Local camp ❌ Omitted Senior tighthead depth
Bongi Mbonambi Hooker Local camp ❌ Omitted Double RWC winner
Renzo du Plessis Loose forward Local camp ❌ Omitted Uncapped Test player

 Backs omitted (2025 → not in 2026)

Player Position 2025 Status 2026 Status Note
Willie le Roux Fullback Local camp ❌ Omitted Double World Cup winner
Ntokozo Makhaza Wing Local camp ❌ Omitted Varsity Cup standout

Springbok fixtures 2026:

International:
Saturday 20 June: Springboks v Barbarians (Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha) – TICKETS

Nations Championship:
Saturday 4 July: Springboks v England (Ellis Park, Johannesburg)
Saturday 11 July: Springboks v Scotland (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria)
Saturday 18 July: Springboks v Wales (Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban)

Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry:
Saturday 22 August: Springboks v All Blacks (Ellis Park, Johannesburg)
Saturday 29 August: Springboks v All Blacks (DHL Stadium, Cape Town)
Saturday 5 September: Springboks v All Blacks (FNB Stadium, Johannesburg)
Saturday 12 September: Springboks v All Blacks (M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, USA)
For available RGR tickets in SA, CLICK HERE

Once-off Tests:
Saturday, 8 August: Argentina v Springboks (venue TBC)
Sunday 27 September: Wallabies v Springboks (Optus Stadium, Perth)

Nations Championship:
Saturday 7 November: Italy v Springboks (venue TBC)
Friday 13 November: France v Springboks (Stade de France, Paris)
Saturday 21 November: Ireland v Springboks (Aviva Stadium, Dublin)
Friday 27 to Sunday 29 November: Finals Weekend (Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, London) – SOURCE

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

United Rugby Championship: South Africa’s rugby powerhouse

South Africa has redefined the United Rugby Championship since 2021, turning a northern league into a cross-continental powerhouse driven by Stormers flair, Bulls consistency and relentless Springbok influence.

Published

on

By

United Rugby Championship

The United Rugby Championship was never meant to belong to South Africa, but in many respects it now does.

The United Rugby Championship shifted rugby’s power

South Africa has redefined the United Rugby Championship since 2021, turning a northern league into a cross-continental powerhouse driven by Stormers flair, Bulls consistency and relentless Springbok influence. From four finals in four seasons to hosting the first three deciders, the United Rugby Championship South Africa story is one of immediate impact, growing dominance and a competition that now runs through Cape Town and Pretoria as much as Dublin.

It is an evolution of the Pro 12, which was a northern hemisphere competition, built on Celtic identity, Irish excellence, Welsh tradition, Italian innovation and Scottish swagger. It had history, rivalry and relevance but it did not have the the presence of South Africa, the breeding ground of World Cup winning Springboks.

When South Africa arrived in the newly formed 16-team United Rugby Championship, it reshaped the league.

Four seasons into the URC era a South African franchise has featured in every single final. The country hosted the first three deciders. Two of those finals were in Cape Town and one was in Pretoria.

From Celtic comfort to cross-continental combat

The league started life in 2001 as the Celtic League,  a tight, regional competition. Then came evolution: Italy joined and it became the PRO12 and then the PRO14, with the South Africa’s Cheetahs and Kings more of an exercise in flirtation than finality.

The reset came in 2021, with the league played behind mostly with Covid restrictions.

The South African quartet, plus their Pro 14 predecessors the Cheetahs and Kings, had played in Super Rugby since 1996, and while South Africa’s decision to go north was deemed controversial by some, most in South Africa acknowledged the value of playing in the northern hemisphere.

What was once a northern league is now rugby’s most compelling cross-continental competition.

Different climates.
Different tempos.
Different rugby identities.

South Africa’s imprint: Immediate, Physical, Decisive

South Africa didn’t need time to adjust, as borne out by the first four finals.

  • 2022 Final (Cape Town): Stormers

  • 2023 Final (Cape Town): Munster beat Stormers

  • 2024 Final (Pretoria): Glasgow beat Bulls

  • 2025 Final (Dublin): Leinster beat Bulls

The 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning Springboks coach Jake White guided the Bulls to three finals in four years and the Stormers, under John Dobson, own South Africa’s most significant chapter, winning the inaugural URC season in beating the Bulls 18-13.

Dobson’s Stormers: The blueprint of URC success

Dobson’s Stormers play with instinct, speed and counter-attack but beneath it sits structure and belief. Western Province school rugby pipelines feeding a professional system that trusts its talent.

At home, at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town, they are difficult to beat.

And in doing so, they’ve defined what URC rugby can look like when South African skill meets South African confidence.

The Bulls: Power, altitude and unfinished business

If the Stormers are all about expression, then the Bulls are about power and pressure.

Loftus Versfeld, in Pretoria, remains one of the toughest assignments in club rugby, with the altitude and the attitude of the hosts often a tonic for opposition scoreboard strain.

The Bulls have been relentless contenders:

White did a fine job in getting them to three finals, but former Springboks lock Johan Ackermann has been tasked in the 2025/26 season in turning silver into gold.

Leinster, Munster and the Irish machine

The Irish provinces still set the standard system excellence. Leinster, in particular, operate like a production line of Test players, and their 2025 demolition of the Bulls in Dublin was clinical, ruthless and expected.

Munster remain knockout specialists, with their 2023 win against the Stormers in the final in Cape Town the stuff of folklore. Munster won their final four league matches to make the play-offs and travelled – and won – for the quarter-final, semi-final and final.

Glasgow’s Loftus miracle

Glasgow’s 2023/24 title win at Loftus made a statement that a good enough team can win a final anywhere and can overcome travel, fatigue, altitude and the odds of the bookies to triumph.

Glasgow’s title win proved the league is wider than the South Africa and Ireland power axis.

The URC has never been predictable, especially finals.

The rivalries that matter

This competition is built on collisions not just of teams, but identities.

  • Stormers vs Bulls – South Africa’s defining franchise rivalry

  • Leinster vs Munster – tradition, edge, history

  • Irish vs South African franchises – control vs chaos, system vs instinct

  • Glasgow v Edinburgh – a national trial
  • Benetton v Zebre – a national trial
  • Cardiff v every Welsh club – culturally so much bigger than a rugby match

South Africans have fallen in love with the URC because there are more wins than defeats, it fits their style of play, the times zones work, there is European relevance and the league is a proving ground for Springboks and for Springboks selection.

  • South African teams have featured in 100% of URC finals

  • The Bulls have played 75% of those finals

  • The Stormers have a title and multiple finals appearances

  • South African franchises win around 60% of matches since entry

  • Home venues like DHL Stadium and Loftus rank among the toughest in the league

What comes next? SA dominance or European resistance?

The next chapter of the URC will be defined by one question: Can Europe’s club, across the league, have enough title contenders to stop the South African surge to turning final appearances into consistent gold medals.

Ireland’s Leinster will always be there, Munster will always threaten and Scotland’s Glasgow have shown what’s possible. All three have won the title.

But South Africa has scale that is overwhelming when assessing their potential as the league grows because the country’s rugby players have an identity built on winning, as borne out by four Rugby World Cup golds and two bronze medals in eight tournaments.

The Final Word

The URC didn’t save South African rugby, as much as South Africa elevated the URC.

The South African four-club participation has brought intensity, edge and consequence to every fixture.

And it made the competition matter beyond its traditional borders.

Four finals in four years is a show of the country’s rugby strength as much as it is an impressive statistic.

Vodacom URC ERA GRAND FINALS 

2024/25: Aviva Stadium, Dublin (Leinster) – 46,127

2023/24: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria (Vodacom Bulls) – 50,388

2022/23: DHL Stadium, Cape Town (DHL Stormers) – 56,344 (record)

2021/22: DHL Stadium, Cape Town (DHL Stormers) – 31,000 (sell out based on available capacity)

Key Takeaways from the 2024-25 season.

  • Leinster dominance: 16 wins from 18 benchmark consistency in the URC

  • Bulls best of South Africa: Clear No.1 local franchise in league phase

  • Stormers playoff presence: Still competitive despite inconsistency

  • SA depth tested: All four SA teams inside top 10

  • Home-ground impact remains decisive across both hemispheres

URC 2024–25 Final League Table (Regular Season)

Position Team Played Wins Losses Draws Points
1 Leinster 18 16 2 0 73
2 Bulls 18 13 5 0 63
3 Munster 18 12 6 0 58
4 Glasgow Warriors 18 11 7 0 54
5 Stormers 18 10 8 0 50
6 Ulster 18 9 9 0 45
7 Edinburgh 18 9 9 0 44
8 Connacht 18 8 10 0 41
9 Lions 18 8 10 0 40
10 Sharks 18 7 11 0 36
11 Benetton 18 7 11 0 35
12 Cardiff 18 6 12 0 30
13 Ospreys 18 6 12 0 29
14 Scarlets 18 5 13 0 27
15 Dragons 18 3 15 0 18
16 Zebre 18 2 16 0 12

LATEST 2025/26 URC NEWS

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Stormers make it 10 wins from 12 vs Bulls in URC derby

Published

on

By

Stormers Bulls URC Loftus 2026 Gallo Images

The Stormers 32-19 win against the Bulls at Loftus on Saturday, 14 March extended their remarkable United Rugby Championship derby record to 10 wins from 12 matches. It was also their fourth win in five URC visits to Pretoria since the competition started in 2021.

Stormers and Springboks utility back Damian Willemse was Saturday’s official Player of the Match. The Paul Roos Gimnasium product is a fan favourite and an exceptional rugby player. He is the youngest double winner in the history of Rugby World Cup, having been just 25 when he won his second successive Rugby World Cup gold medal.

Photo: Gallo Images

Willemse, on Saturday afternoon, scored a try and created the Stormers fourth try with a 50 metre kick through. Among his stats were seven tackles and seven carries, but those are tangibles. What isn’t is his off-the-ball work, his on-field presence and what he offers as a support and guide to flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mnogomezulu.

Willemse, just 27 years-old, has played in excess of 8000 minutes of rugby since making his debut for the Stormers in Super Rugby in 2016. He was 18 years-old. He is a Stormers centurion and has gone past 50 Tests for the Springboks.

Stormers vs Bulls URC Record (2021–2026)

Overall

  • Played: 12

  • Stormers wins: 10

  • Bulls wins: 2

Venue breakdown: Cape Town vs Pretoria

Cape Town (DHL Stadium)

  • Matches: 7

  • Stormers wins: 6

  • Bulls wins: 1

Matches

  • 9 Apr 2022 Stormers 19-17 Bulls (League)

  • 18 Jun 2022 Stormers 18-13 Bulls (URC Final)

  • 23 Dec 2022 Stormers 37-27 Bulls (League)

  • 6 May 2023 Stormers 33-21 Bulls (Quarter-final)

  • 23 Dec 2023 Stormers 26-20 Bulls (League)

  • 8 Feb 2025 Bulls 33-32 Stormers (League)

  • 3 Jan 2026 Stormers 13-8 Bulls (League)

Pretoria (Loftus Versfeld)

  • Matches: 5

  • Stormers wins: 4

  • Bulls wins: 1

Matches

  • 22 Jan 2022 Stormers 30-26 Bulls (League)

  • 18 Feb 2023 Stormers 23-19 Bulls (League)

  • 2 Mar 2024 Bulls 40-22 Stormers (League)

  • 1 Mar 2025 Stormers 19-16 Bulls (League)

  • 15 Mar 2026 Stormers 32-19 Bulls (League)

Correct overall URC split

  • Played: 12

  • Stormers wins: 10

  • Bulls wins: 2

  • League matches: 10 five in Cape Town, five in Pretoria

  • Playoff matches: 2 both in Cape Town, the 2022 final and 2023 quarter-final

League matches vs URC play-offs

League Matches

  • Played: 10

  • Stormers wins: 8

  • Bulls wins: 2

URC play-off meetings

  • Played: 2

Year Stage Venue Result
2022 Final Cape Town Stormers 18–13
2023 Quarter-final Cape Town Stormers 33–21

Playoff record

  • Stormers: 2 wins

  • Bulls: 0 wins

URC derby snapshot

Stormers vs Bulls URC results since 2021

Category Played Stormers Bulls
Overall URC 12 10 2
Cape Town 7 6 1
Pretoria 5 4 1
League matches 10 8 2
Play-offs 2 2 0
  • The Stormers won the inaugural URC final in 2022 in Cape Town.

  • They repeated the knockout dominance in the 2023 quarter-final, also in Cape Town.

  • The Bulls’ two URC derby wins have both come in league matches, one in Pretoria (2024) and one in Cape Town (2025).

LATEST STATISTICS & MATCH HIGHLIGHTS 

MATCH STATS

BULLS V STORMERS IS SOUTH AFRICAN RUGBY’S BIGGEST RIVALRY

BULLS v STORMERS, 14th March, 2026.

Loftus, Pretoria

MATCH SQUADS

BULLS – 15 David Kriel, 14 Sebastian de Klerk, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Handré Pollard, 9 Paul de Wet, 8 Jeandré Rudolph, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Marcell Coetzee (c), 5 Ruan Nortjé, 4 Ruan Vermaak, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp.
Bench: 16 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 17 Alulutho Tshakweni, 18 Mornay Smith, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Nizaam Carr, 21 Marco van Staden, 22 Paul de Wet, 23 Willie le Roux.

STORMERS – 15 Warrick Gelant, 14 Suleiman Hartzenberg, 13 Ruhan Nel (c), 12 Damian Willemse, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Stefan Ungerer, 8 Marcel Theunissen, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Deon Fourie, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Bench: 16 JJ Kotzé, 17 Vernon Matongo, 18 Sazi Sandi, 19 Paul de Villiers, 20 Hacjivah Dayimani, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Jonathan Roche, 23 Wandisile Simelane.

BREAKDOWN WARRIORS

Since the URC began in 2021, the Stormers have owned South Africa’s fiercest franchise rivalry: 10 wins from 12 meetings, home and away, and two play-off victories at DHL Stadium.

Continue Reading

International Rugby

Europe reacts to France’s dramatic Six Nations title

Published

on

By

France players lift the Six Nations trophy after beating England in Paris Photo: Shaun Botterill Getty Images

France claimed the 2026 Six Nations title in extraordinary fashion, beating England 48-46 in Paris after Thomas Ramos landed a penalty with the final kick of the match.

The Stade de France thriller produced 94 points and 13 tries, making it one of the highest-scoring Tests in the history of the rivalry.

For France it was their 10th Six Nations title in the professional era, while England’s defeat denied Ireland the championship after a weekend that had swung wildly between contenders.

Across Europe the reaction was dramatic – French media celebrated the spectacle, English outlets lamented the heartbreak and Irish newspapers reflected on a title that slipped away in the final seconds.

France media reaction: ‘A victory of nerve and spectacle’

L’Équipe

Headline: “Ramos au bout du suspense: la France championne!”
(Ramos at the death: France champions!)

France’s leading sports daily focused on the composure of Ramos and the brilliance of winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who scored four tries in a match that will be remembered as one of the greatest “Crunch” encounters.

The paper called the final moments “pure theatre in front of a roaring Stade de France.”


Midi Olympique

Headline: “Un Crunch de folie: les Bleus sacrés au bout du pied de Ramos.”

The rugby weekly described the match as one of the wildest finales in Six Nations history, praising France’s attacking intent but warning that conceding 46 points to England exposed defensive vulnerabilities.


Rugbyrama

Headline: “Un final historique: Ramos offre le Tournoi aux Bleus.”

Rugbyrama highlighted the emergence of Bielle-Biarrey as the star of the tournament, noting his try-scoring feats while praising the resilience of Fabien Galthié’s side.


Le Figaro

Headline: “Les Bleus arrachent le Tournoi dans un Crunch irrespirable.”

Le Figaro framed the victory as a triumph of nerve, describing the contest as an instant classic of French attacking rugby.


England media reaction: ‘Heartbreak in a Paris epic’

The Guardian

Headline: “France win Six Nations with last kick as England fall just short.”

The Guardian described the match as an epic finale, praising England’s attacking ambition but noting discipline and key moments ultimately cost Steve Borthwick’s side.


The Times

Headline: “England heartbreak as Ramos penalty steals Six Nations title.”

The Times focused on England’s inability to close out the match after taking the lead late in the contest, questioning game management in the final minutes.


BBC Sport

Headline: “Last-gasp Ramos penalty denies England in Paris thriller.”

BBC analysis praised England’s seven tries but said the defeat would haunt the players after producing their most attacking display of the championship.


The Telegraph

Headline: “Brave England fall short in 94-point Paris epic.”

The Telegraph labelled the match one of the most extraordinary attacking Tests between the nations, highlighting the spectacle despite the defeat.


Ireland media reaction: ‘Title dreams shattered at the death’

Ireland began the final day of the championship still in the hunt for the title and, for several minutes late in the Paris match, looked set to benefit from an English victory.

Ramos’ penalty changed everything.


Irish Times

Headline: “Ireland denied as France snatch Six Nations in Paris drama.”

The Irish Times described the closing minutes as “a cruel twist” for Ireland, who had earlier completed their own victory but were forced to watch events unfold in Paris.


Irish Independent

Headline: “France break Irish hearts with last-kick title win.”

The paper wrote that Ireland’s title hopes were alive until the final whistle, only to be extinguished by Ramos’ decisive kick.


The42.ie

Headline: “Ireland’s title hopes dashed by Ramos’ dramatic penalty.”

Ireland’s leading rugby platform described the finish as “a brutal reminder of the margins that define championship rugby.”


One of the greatest Six Nations finales

Across Europe there was a rare consensus.

The match will be remembered as one of the greatest Six Nations finales ever played a contest that combined relentless attacking rugby, scoreboard chaos and a title decided with the final kick.

 

Continue Reading

International Rugby

France Rugby World Cup Record: Finals, History & Why They Never Won

Published

on

France rugby world cup record

France has produced unforgettable Rugby World Cup moments, yet in 10 tournaments, over 40 years, they have never won the tournament. Their Rugby World Cup record betrays their status as one of the great rugby nations.

France Rugby World Cup Record Explained

The France Rugby World Cup record includes three final appearances and three silver medals, but they remain the strongest rugby nation never to win the Rugby World Cup.

Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images

They have enjoyed success in the Six Nations, with their 2026 title win their 10th in Europe’s premier international rugby tournament, which started as the Five Nations and is now the Six Nations, with Italy’s inclusion.

Understanding France rugby World Cup record requires looking at several factors: their repeated finals heartbreak, the inconsistency of the professional era, and their historical struggles against southern hemisphere opposition.

France in World Cup finals

France have reached the Rugby World Cup final three times, but have lost on every occasion.

Year

Host

Final

Result

1987

New Zealand

New Zealand vs France

Lost 29–9

1999

Wales

Australia vs France

Lost 35–12

2011

New Zealand

New Zealand vs France

Lost 8–7

Overall

3 finals

0 wins – 3 losses

The closest France have come to lifting the trophy was in 2011. In a dramatic final at Eden Park, they pushed New Zealand all the way before losing 8–7 in one of the tightest finals in Rugby World Cup history.

France’s journey to that final was turbulent, including internal disagreements within the squad, yet they still produced one of the most spirited performances seen in a World Cup final.

Across tournament history, France have also reached the semi-finals six times, confirming their status as a consistent contender even without a title.

France rugby World Cup record

France have competed in every Rugby World Cup since 1987, maintaining one of the stronger overall tournament records among northern hemisphere nations.

Tournament

Played

Won

Lost

Drawn

1987

6

5

1

0

1991

4

3

1

0

1995

5

3

2

0

1999

6

5

1

0

2003

7

5

2

0

2007

7

5

2

0

2011

7

4

3

0

2015

5

3

2

0

2019

5

3

2

0

2023

5

4

1

0

Overall

57

40

17

0

France’s 70% tournament win rate reflects a team that regularly progresses deep into the competition, but they have struggled to finish the job when facing the world’s strongest sides in knockout matches.

Most capped French players at the World Cup

Rank Player RWC Matches World Cups
1 Fabien Pelous 18 1995, 1999, 2003, 2007
2 Philippe Sella 17 1987, 1991, 1995
3 Raphaël Ibanez 16 1995, 1999, 2003
3 Olivier Magne 16 1999, 2003, 2007
5 Thierry Dusautoir 15 2007, 2011, 2015
5 Vincent Clerc 15 2007, 2011
5 Serge Blanco 15 1987, 1991
8 Frédéric Michalak 14 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015
8 Fabien Galthié 14 1999, 2003
8 Abdelatif Benazzi 14 1991, 1995, 1999

 

Most tries at the World Cup

Rank Player Tries World Cups
1 Vincent Clerc 11 2007, 2011
2 Christophe Dominici 8 1999, 2003, 2007
3 Jean-Baptiste Lafond 6 1991
3 Émile Ntamack 6 1995, 1999
3 Damian Penaud 6 2019, 2023
6 Didier Camberabero 5 1987
6 Philippe Saint-André 5 1991, 1995
6 Philippe Sella 5 1987, 1991, 1995

Most points at the World Cup

Rank Player Points World Cups
1 Thierry Lacroix 124
2 Frédéric Michalak 116
3 Christophe Lamaison 65
4 Jean-Baptiste Elissalde 61
5 Didier Camberabero 59
6 Camille Lopez 53
7 Gérald Merceron 50
8 Morgan Parra 48
9 Romain Ntamack 45
10 Thomas Castaignède 45

 

Professional era inconsistency

One of the key reasons often cited when asking why France never win the World Cup is inconsistency during the professional era.

Since rugby union turned professional in 1995, France have often struggled to maintain continuity at international level. Their domestic league, the Top 14, is one of the richest and most demanding competitions in the world. While it produces elite players, the long season and physical toll can make it difficult for the national side to build stability.

Between 2011 and 2019, France experienced a turbulent period marked by coaching changes, fluctuating performances and inconsistent results against top-tier opponents.

However, the current generation has helped restore stability. Under head coach Fabien Galthié, France won the 2022 Six Nations Grand Slam and re-established themselves as one of the world’s leading teams.

 

Record vs southern hemisphere

Another key factor behind France’s World Cup struggles is their historical record against the southern hemisphere powers.

France vs southern hemisphere nations (all-time Tests)

Opponent

Played

France Wins

Opponent Wins

Draws

New Zealand

67

15

51

1

South Africa

47

12

29

6

Australia

64

28

34

2

Argentina

56

40

15

1

Overall

234

95

129

10

 

France have historically struggled against New Zealand and South Africa, with both nations holding dominant head-to-head records.

Australia have also maintained a slight advantage, while France hold a strong record over Argentina.

Despite these numbers, France have produced some of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, including their famous 1999 semi-final victory over New Zealand and the 2007 quarter-final win against the All Blacks in Cardiff.

Those matches highlight France’s unique reputation in world rugby: a team capable of defeating anyone on the biggest stage.

 

Why France are different at home

France have traditionally been a very different team when playing at home.

The passionate atmosphere in French stadiums, combined with the emotional style of play often associated with Les Bleus, has helped the team produce some of their best performances on home soil.

This advantage was evident during the build-up to the 2023 Rugby World Cup, when France entered the tournament among the favourites after several strong seasons.

Crowd support, momentum and confidence have often played a major role in France’s performances in major tournaments.

Can they win in 2027?

Looking ahead, France appear well positioned to challenge for the Rugby World Cup again in 2027.

The current generation of players has developed within a strong domestic system and has gained valuable experience competing at the highest level. Combined with the tactical clarity introduced under Fabien Galthié, France have become one of the most balanced teams in world rugby.

However, the ultimate challenge remains the same as it has been throughout their World Cup history: defeating the southern hemisphere giants in knockout matches.

If France can consistently overcome teams like New Zealand, South Africa and Australia when it matters most, they may finally end their long wait for a first Rugby World Cup title.

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Bulls v Stormers is South African rugby’s biggest derby

Published

on

By

Bulls v Stormers. South African rugby's biggest derby.

The Bulls v Stormers is South African rugby’s biggest derby. The clash is north v south and historically it has never gotten bigger in any South African domestic or international provincial or club competition, as will be the case in Saturday’s United Rugby Championship match at Loftus, Pretoria.

The most recent match-up played out in front of 52 000 fans at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium and the Stormers needed a 78th minute try to win the URC league fixture 13-8.

STORMERS EDGE BULLS 13-8

LATEST BULLS AND STORMERS NEWS

Bulls v Stormers: The Complete Record of South Africa’s North–South Rugby Rivalry

Few rivalries in world rugby stretch across three centuries of competition and identity.

The battle between the Bulls and Stormers is the modern face of a rivalry that began long before professionalism when Northern Transvaal and Western Province first met in 1891.

From Currie Cup wars at Newlands and Loftus Versfeld to modern URC derby clashes, the North–South rivalry remains one of the defining fixtures in South African rugby.

Today the Stormers brand represents Western Province professionally, while the Bulls remain the professional flagship of the old Northern Transvaal union.

This is the complete statistical breakdown of Bulls v Stormers and the historic Western Province rivalry that created it.

Bulls v Stormers Head-to-Head Record

The Stormers and Bulls first met in Super Rugby in 1998, marking the professional chapter of the rivalry.

Bulls vs Stormers Record (1998–2025)

Matches Bulls Wins Stormers Wins Draws
44 27 17 0

The Bulls dominated much of the early professional era, particularly during the Heyneke Meyer and Frans Ludeke years, when Pretoria became the powerhouse of Super Rugby.

The Stormers have been more competitive in the URC era, winning seven successive matches with John Dobson as coach.

Bulls v Western Province: The Rivalry Before Professional Rugby

Before the creation of the Stormers franchise, the rivalry existed as Western Province v Northern Transvaal in the Currie Cup.

These matches built the mythology of North vs South rugby.

Western Province vs Northern Transvaal Record (1891–1996)

Matches WP Wins Northern Transvaal Wins Draws
120 54 61 5

Northern Transvaal held the edge through much of the 1970s, while Western Province dominated the 1980s with their legendary Currie Cup streak.

Bulls v Western Province Record (1997–Present)

After professionalism and the renaming of Northern Transvaal to the Blue Bulls, the rivalry tightened.

Bulls vs Western Province

Matches WP Wins Bulls Wins Draws
65 32 31 2

Few provincial rivalries in rugby have remained so evenly balanced across decades.

The North vs South Rivalry in Numbers

Combining all eras Northern Transvaal, the Bulls, Western Province and the Stormers the rivalry stretches back more than 130 years.

Combined Rivalry Record

Matches Northern teams wins Cape teams wins Draws
229 119 103 7

Pretoria’s teams hold a slight historical advantage, though the rivalry has repeatedly swung between dominance in the north and the south.

STORMERS BEAT BULLS FOR URC TITLE 

Bulls v Stormers Centurions

Every Player With 100+ Club Caps

The Bulls v Stormers rivalry is one of the defining fixtures in South African rugby.

Across the Super Rugby and United Rugby Championship eras, only a small group of players have reached the milestone of 100 franchise appearances for either side.

Below is the verified list of Stormers and Bulls centurions, based on franchise records and official announcements.

Stormers Centurions

(100+ Stormers caps)

Player Position
Brok Harris Prop
Andries Bekker Lock
Jean de Villiers Centre
Peter Grant Flyhalf
Schalk Burger Flanker
Siya Kolisi Flanker
Frans Malherbe Prop
Steven Kitshoff Prop
Deon Fourie Hooker / Flanker
Scarra Ntubeni Hooker
Damian Willemse Utility Back
Neethling Fouché Prop

Key Stormers appearance records

  • Most Stormers caps: Brok Harris

  • First Stormers centurion: Andries Bekker

  • Most Stormers centurions by position: Prop (Harris, Malherbe, Kitshoff, Fouché)


Bulls Centurions

(100+ Bulls franchise caps)

Player Position
Victor Matfield Lock
Morné Steyn Flyhalf
Fourie du Preez Scrumhalf
Bakkies Botha Lock
Danie Rossouw Utility Forward
Pedrie Wannenburg No 8
Wynand Olivier Centre
Pierre Spies No 8
Akona Ndungane Wing
Werner Kruger Prop
Embrose Papier Scrumhalf
Lizo Gqoboka Prop
Marco van Staden Flanker

Key Bulls appearance records

  • Most Bulls franchise caps: Victor Matfield

  • Most Bulls centurions by position: Lock

  • First Bulls centurion of the professional era: Bakkies Botha

What It Means To Be A Franchise Centurion

Reaching 100 appearances for a South African franchise is a rare milestone.

Several factors limit player totals:

  • Springbok duty removes players for long periods

  • Overseas contracts reduce long-term continuity

  • Squad rotation in Super Rugby and the URC

This makes the Stormers and Bulls centurions clubs among the most exclusive groups in South African professional rugby.

The Rivalry Enters a New Era

With Stormers now replacing Western Province in the Currie Cup from 2026, the professional identity of the rivalry is clearer than ever.

What began as Western Province v Northern Transvaal has evolved into the modern Bulls v Stormers derby but the essence remains unchanged.

Cape Town versus Pretoria.

Newlands tradition versus Loftus power is now Cape Town buzz at the youthful DHL Stadium versus the endearing beauty of the old lady Loftus.

North versus South.

And in South African rugby, no internal showdown carries the same history or significance as Bulls v Stormers.

FAQ

What is the Bulls v Stormers record?
The Bulls lead the Stormers 27 wins to 17 since 1998.

When did Western Province first play Northern Transvaal?
The first recorded meeting was in 1891.

 

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Keo.co.za