One of the defining themes of the 2026 season to date has been the impressive form of the KZN schools. The province’s top sides are more physical than ever and increasingly comfortable operating within well-organised defensive systems — in some cases even ahead of their counterparts elsewhere in the country.
Yet a lingering question remains. With KZN fully removed from the premier Noord-Suid Tournament, their leading teams have not consistently tested themselves against the traditional heavyweights of the schoolboy game.
That is what makes Wildeklawer 2026 such a significant proving ground. For the four KZN representatives, this is an opportunity either to validate their growing reputation among the elite — or to give weight to the doubters.
What is clear from the Kimberley fixture list is that there is no easing in. No soft landings, no dodging the big guns. The English-medium schools from the so-called Last Outpost face some of the toughest assignments of the tournament.
Durban High School vs Monument
When the 2026 season is reviewed, there is a sense that Monument may be remembered as a side rich in talent that did not fully capitalise on its resources. On paper, the Witbulle have it all — and, pleasingly, have returned to the direct, physical style that defined their most successful Krugersdorp teams.
DHS, no strangers to forward muscle themselves, will need to brace for a barrage up front. Their hopes will rest on absorbing that pressure, producing cleaner distribution than they managed against Northwood last weekend, and finding a way to bring their backs into the contest with quality ball.
Maritzburg College vs Stellenberg
Stellenberg are relentless up front and operate at an exceptional defensive level, conceding just 10 points per game — the best defensive record in the country. College, seventh on that metric, are not far behind and arrive in strong form.
This will be a brutal forward contest. Expect parity at the breakdown and in the collisions, although College’s lineout could come under pressure. While their RBW backline is improving, this remains an area where the Jade Brigade’s creative structures — with mobile, ball-playing forwards linking effectively with the backs — may provide the clinical edge.
Westville vs Oakdale
Westville’s tight five face arguably the most formidable scrum in schoolboy rugby. The Oakdale Bulle will test them relentlessly in both the set piece and the tight-loose exchanges. However, Oakdale have shown vulnerability in their lineout at times.
In contrast, the backline battle leans heavily towards Westville — a high-tempo, sevens-influenced attack steered by a livewire flyhalf and a dangerous fullback. If Oakdale cannot dominate up front and force Westville onto the back foot, they may struggle to keep pace with a side averaging 40 points per game compared to their own 22.
Northwood vs Paarl Boys’ High
Northwood may be the lowest-ranked KZN side at the festival, but they are physically imposing and possess a few standout individuals. Their likely approach will be territory-driven, using the boot — though Paarl Boys’ High may mirror that strategy.
Boishaai’s attack can appear one-dimensional, but it is built on patience — a methodical wearing down of defensive structures before striking decisively. Their pedigree should see them through, but if Northwood remain resilient, they could make this far more uncomfortable than expected. There is also a psychological angle, with Boishaai perhaps already casting an eye ahead to their marquee clash against Affies later in the festival.
Maritzburg College vs Outeniqua
College’s second outing pits them against one of 2026’s standout overachievers. The Kwaggas bring a solid forward base and genuine attacking spark out wide. With fatigue potentially setting in and more space opening up, Outeniqua may enjoy the looser nature of the contest — yet this could be tighter than many expect.
Northwood vs Garsfontein
This presents a daunting challenge for Northwood. Garsfontein are among the top sides in the country, with strength across all departments. Even if they arrive slightly fatigued after a major fixture against Paul Roos, they have repeatedly shown an ability to rise again quickly. A very tough assignment for the Knights.
Durban HS vs Paarl Gim
A hugely demanding test for DHS. Paarl Gimnasium’s tempo from phase play is relentless, making defensive reorganisation extremely difficult. Combined with a solid set-piece foundation and the cohesion that is synonymous with their blueprint, they present a complete and formidable package.
Westville vs Waterkloof
This offers Westville an opportunity to return from their debut Wildeklawer campaign with a perfect record.
Waterkloof are often underestimated but function effectively as a cohesive unit. If Westville can impose their tempo, they will back themselves — but Kloof’s structure and balance ensure this is no straightforward task.
@KES Oldboy (Comment #13)
Correct both boys are u19… Afrikaner was the Sa u18 wing last year.. Koopman picked up a horrible injury in the warm up game against lions befor the Craven week.they didn’t play Grant Khomo…. both boys
@beet (Comment #14)
Yes – apologies for my spelling of their names. What I do know is that they are both outstanding players.
@Westville_Boy (Comment #12)
I think he’s referring to Koopman and Afrikaner. Both u19s who played in last year’s 100% winning record Wvl team
@Westville_Boy (Comment #12)
Last year’s fullback Siyaya is brilliant. What a beautifully balanced runner! Kopman at 10 is definitely U19 – he played Grant Khomo in 2023 and has been in 1st team since 2024 so he can’t be U18. I may be mistaken but I also think Afrikander was in the 1st team in 2024 which also makes him U19.
@KES Oldboy (Comment #11)
Nope last year’s Fullback played for the sharks against Edinburgh. 15 played seconds last year. Same flyhalf from last year though.
@beet (Comment #7)
Am I correct in saying that both of those boys are U19? They were both playing 1st XV in 2024.
@Kantman (Comment #9)
No Played 8 Lost 8
But agree there were performances to be proud of by the four at Wildeklawer given the conditions and quality of opposition.
I think Maritzburg College was the KZN team of the day followed by Northwood.
Some solid performances from KZN teams. Could have gone either way. Just checking – was there a win today for a KZN team at tournaments?
Good effort by Northwood. Lots of heart and desire. Very allowed HJS to settle and fought back from 21-10 down to make the score a very respectable 21-18
Westville really got pounded by those Oakdale big forwards who paved the way for the win. Westville backs put together some nice plays to stay in the game. Koopman maybe the KZN player of the season so far and Afrikaner with another good performance
MC battled back very well after suffering at the hands of the Stellies intensity in the first half.
Very pleasing effort in the second half. Tsoko did well.
Daniel Mongie at 12 for the Jades was awesome. Pity Kosani missing from MC to contain him
DHS forwards gave a good account of themselves vs Monnas. Just could not get the backline firing again. Kicks missed vs Monnas landing many of theirs was a big difference maker in the end
Here is my personal 10 KZN surprise package players for the season so far
1. Ross Steyn (HC)
Outstanding. In a position crowded with returning big-name loose forwards, he has set himself apart. A powerful ball-carrier who consistently gets his side over the gain line and onto the front foot.
2. Sean Jansen (MC)
It was disappointing to learn before HMK that he isn’t Jake’s brother, but his performances have impressed regardless. For a U17, he has taken on significant responsibility and shows a very “Jake-like” presence.
3. Alande Ngubane (MC)
An U19 who has been central to Maritzburg College’s go-forward. Exceptionally strong and consistently effective.
4. Lwandle Makhanya (Wvl)
Another U19 who burst into the 2026 season. Offers real dynamism through his explosiveness and work rate.
5. John Grubb (HC)
Strong against Westville and proving to be a reliable, dependable performer. Looks settled with a lot to offer.
6. Jack Carmody (MHS)
Before the season, “Chunky” looked as though he might be a liability at flyhalf. Instead, he has become something of a glue player. He has an excellent natural feel for the game and is tough as nails.
7. Trevor van Vollenstee (NW)
A marked improvement on 2025, when it seemed the sooner he moved on from fullback the better. He has started the season firing, showing maturity and a willingness to take responsibility.
8. Ezra Karolisin (Wvl)
Still developing (u17), but his pace and skill are remarkable for a loose forward. He reflects the direction of modern schoolboy rugby—loosies with genuine backline attributes.
9. Thomas Aylward (KC)
Once appeared surplus to requirements, but has stepped up impressively. Now looks comfortable as a utility option, in a mould similar to Sale’s KCOB Robert du Preez (covering 10 and 13), with comparable size.
10. Richaard Kriel (DHS)
KZN has several capable scrumhalves, but u17 Kriel stands out. He’s suited to running with the ball, Antoine Dupont like, with sharp lateral movement.
10. Jonah Chaita (Gwd)
There was a desire to include a Glenwood player, and u17 Chaita fits well. A horses-for-courses selection who could help steer the Hoppers’ backline in a more effective direction. Not easy to come in and replace a chosen leader.
@sbw_offload_99 (Comment #2)
Love your posts below. Great recognition for those boys who have been delivering good performances each week. For NW I would add both Van Vollenstee brothers. Flank and Fullback. Both been very effective and important to the team success in their own ways.
UNDERRATED KZN PLAYERS TO WATCH 2ND PART
He takes to the line gingerly but has deceptive burst and passes in the right channels with decent timing. His kicking is also sound he was mainly a catch and kick slash distributing ten with limited passing range but has now slightly improved in movement and power. if he lets the big guys work or creates the space with his own carrying and playcalling we could see an unstoppable attack by college.
…………………………………………………………
Lux Sonkononkono
wow what a baller. should manage the game better now that he has learned from the mishaps in the kick chase game against Jeppe. he can now assist at speed and has different attacking solutions. which is crucial for a fb. his legend grows every game.
…………………………………………………………
Caleb Scheepers
He’s genuinely fast and uses his body well (feints and fends) also has a defensive game which not a lot of wingers get noted for in SBR.
…………………………………………………………
Tristan Parkinson
We already know Wimble but Parkinson is a proper ball playing forward because well… he used to be a no.12. His height to help with an already decent lineout. he’s lanky but actually carries with good aggression his return from injury will undoubtedly fire the boys up.
UNDERRATED KZN PLAYERS TO WATCH 1ST PART
Captained the team in the last fixture, they are going to need his leadership to inspire a cohesion we haven’t seen from this stacked DHS outfit. He’s also a great player to watch himself does everything well he’s a slightly shorter Josh Neill.
…………………………………………………………
Awande Mthethwa & Janco Visagie
Janco Visagie is a pretty decent rugby player. He probably could have gone to a P5 school or a prominent Noordvaal school to fight for a starting position at some point but he stayed at the School Of Choice and is reaping big time.
NW LH giving u17 selectors a good headache he was pulling up trees for them in the carry and in the scrum. they’ve both restored credibility to their teams set-piece which allowed us to see their pocket rocket Centers and free-range Fullback for all their glory. combine that with their efforts to get back on D and not concede pens you’ve got true quality at a game shaping position.