united rugby championshiplatest news & developments
Stormers loose forward Hacjivah Dayimani is looking to step up as a senior leader following his return to the Cape side.  |  Backpagepix
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Hacjivah Dayimani refines his game as Stormers prepare for Edinburgh clash

Often referred to as the “Dennis Rodman of rugby” because of his bleached hair and painted fingernails, the 29-year-old Dayimani is also known for his flashy style of play.

Sharks co-captain Phepsi Buthelezi says his side are looking forward to measuring their progress against defending champions Leinster at Kings Park.  |  Backpagepix
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Sharks ready to measure progress in acid Test against defending champions Leinster

After making a winning start to their URC campaign, the Sharks are aiming to test their off-season improvements when they host champions Leinster in Durban.

Reinhardt Ludwig powered over for two tries in the Bulls' URC season-opening win over Zebre Parma.  |  Backpagepix
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Reinhardt Ludwig out to fill Ruan Nortje's boots for Bulls after Parma masterclass

Bulls second-rower Reinhardt Ludwig has turned last season's selection disappointment into fuel as he steps up to fill the void left by former captain Ruan Nortje.

Haashim Pead has returned to his Cape Town roots after signing a four-year contract with the Stormers.  |  Backpagepix

Junior Springbok star Haashim Pead joins Stormers on four-year deal

Exciting scrumhalf Haashim Pead has returned home to Cape Town, completing a four-year transfer from the Lions to join the Stormers.

Rising Lions star Siba Mahashe produced a Player of the Match performance against the All Blacks at Ellis Park as he targets a spot in the Springbok setup.  |  Backpagepix
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EXCLUSIVE | Siba Mahashe: The unstoppable Lions loose-forward chasing Springbok glory

From East London to tearing up Ellis Park against the All Blacks, rising Lions star Siba Mahashe opens up about his meteoric rise, team ethos, and big Springbok ambitions.

The Bulls made it to the final of the URC last season, only to be soundly beaten by Leinster.  |  Backpagepix
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South Africa target play-off clean sweep as 2026/27 URC season kicks off

A complete guide to the 2026/27 United Rugby Championship season for South Africa's four franchises: the Bulls, Lions, Sharks, and Stormers.

Ivan van Rooyen has backed Haashim Pead to make a major impact for the Lions in the upcoming URC season.  |  Backpagepix
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Ivan van Rooyen backs Haashim Pead for key Lions role amid Stormers transfer drama

Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen insists scrumhalf Haashim Pead remains a central figure in their plans despite transfer interest from the Stormers.

Ethan Hooker opened up on his resilience through tragedy, his swift injury return, and his willingness to fit into Rassie Erasmus' Springbok plans last week.  |  Backpagepix
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Through tragedy and injury, Ethan Hooker proves he has the heart for Test rugby

Rising Springbok and Sharks star Ethan Hooker opens up about his secret stint at eighthman, honoring his late father, and recovering from a severe shoulder injury.

Former Springbok wing Breyton Paulse reflects on the incredible rise of Cheslin Kolbe as the star prepares for his return home to Cape Town.  |  Backpagepix

EXCLUSIVE | Breyton Paulse hails Cheslin Kolbe's evolution ahead of Stormers homecoming

Former Springbok wing Breyton Paulse praises Cheslin Kolbe's incredible journey, highlighting his character, resilience, and return home to the Stormers.

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie will use the clash at Loftus Versfeld to settle his starting lineup for the opening Test against the Springboks.  |  AFP

Why an All Blacks win at Loftus might actually suit the Springboks

As the Bulls prepare to host New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld, a victory for the visitors could be the ideal scenario for the Springboks ahead of next week's first Test at Ellis…