One of the most remarkable features of Affies’ 2026 campaign has been the evolution from a traditionally forward-dominated outfit into a side boasting one of the most dangerous backlines in schoolboy rugby.
So much so that there must be a measure of relief within the Maritzburg College camp that the Witbulle side running onto Goldstones on Saturday, 25 July 2026, will be without two of their standout backs through injury. Both are still U17s and both have enjoyed exceptional seasons – Dandre Brink and Rico du Plessis.
The powerfully built Brink has been sensational on the wing, delivering a level of consistency that is perhaps matched only by teammate Dehan Botha. If anything, Botha brings an even greater physical presence. Blessed with immense strength in contact, he regularly wins one-on-one collisions and leaves defenders in his wake.
While Brink and Botha still fit the traditional image of an Affies back, Du Plessis has been something altogether different. The young centre possesses an instinctive feel for attacking play, combining sharp decision-making with excellent hands and footwork. Whether linking with teammates or exploiting space himself, he has repeatedly shown an ability to unlock defences.
There is some good news for Affies, however. Highly rated scrumhalf Fourie Roberts returns to the fold, setting up what should be a fascinating battle with College No. 9 Dom du Toit. The Pretoria side also welcomes back another exciting U17 talent in fullback Kyle van Staden, whose attacking instincts and elusive running are expected to pose a significant threat.
As impressive as Affies have been on attack this year, it is difficult not to look ahead with excitement to what 2027 may bring. Incumbent flyhalf Ruben Smith will return, as will 2nd XV scrumhalf Ethan van Zyl and centre Janko van der Walt. Grant Khomo Week also provided a glimpse of the depth in reserve through the effective midfield pairing of Louwrens Grobler and Heinrich Bekker. Exciting fullback Wilhelm Boer and the pacey Pieter van Niekerk are among several others who could help ignite what is shaping up to be a truly special backline next season.
Maritzburg College, meanwhile, remain a side built on grit, character and an unwavering willingness to put their bodies on the line. Their pack is loaded with competitors, from the front row through to second-row enforcer Sean Jansen and hardworking loose forwards Rory Stanton and David Collenbrander. While an Affies pack of years gone by might have presented an intimidating prospect, this College side certainly possesses the tools to compete up front.
The hosts will, however, be without the dependable Linamandla Mabanga at prop.
College’s backs have also bought into a strong defensive system, showing admirable discipline and commitment throughout the season. What they have yet to consistently produce is the punch, fluency and pace required to unleash a truly threatening attacking onslaught. Their challenge becomes even greater with powerful centre Olwethu Kosani unavailable after a season repeatedly disrupted by injury.
For all the excitement surrounding this year’s Affies backline, the feeling persists that what supporters are witnessing now may merely be the opening act. If the current crop has announced itself in 2026, the foundations already being laid suggest something even more formidable could be on the horizon.
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