Rugby
Powerful prop Dlamini to lead Griquas in Currie Cup─── MORGAN PIEK 13:51 Wed, 23 Jul 2025
The powerful tighthead prop, Cebo Dlamini, has been named captain of the Suzuki Griquas for their 2025 Currie Cup campaign, which kicks off on Friday in Nelspruit.
Earlier this year, George Whitehead and Marco de Witt led the Peacock Blues as co-captains during the SA Cup.
However, coach Pieter Bergh has decided to take a different approach for the world’s oldest domestic rugby competition. Dlamini is a seasoned campaigner in Kimberley and a real handful in the scrums.
His first task as captain will be to lead the Griquas against the Pumas on Friday night. Speaking to OFM Sport, Dlamini said they’re expecting a tough challenge right from the start, but the team is ready for it.
“I think for us, whether the game is home or away, it doesn’t really matter,” said Dlamini. “We need a good start to have a good campaign.
“So, going back to Nelspruit and rewriting the story is actually a great opportunity for us. Everyone’s excited, and our focus is on delivering a strong performance on Friday night.”
Dlamini added that he doesn’t want to overthink the captaincy role too much, but rather lead by example, and appreciates the backing from the coach.
“For me, the main thing stays the main thing,” he said. “I had a chat with Coach Piet, and he believes in me.
“I really appreciate his support, but it’s important that I lead with my actions and play well. It’s crucial for the captain to perform and bring energy and calm to the group.
Pieter Bergh. Photo: Morgan Piek
We’ve got a great mix of experienced guys and new faces, so the balance is good, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead.”
Friday night’s Currie Cup opener between the Pumas and Griquas kicks off at 19:00.
Griquas squad for the 2025 Currie Cup:
Props: Eddie Davids, Cebo Dlamini, Johan Louw, Corne Lavagna, Leon Lyons, IG Prinsloo, Ebune Ngundu, Ntobeko Shezi
Hookers: Dandré Delport, Gustav du Rand, Tiaan Lange, Janco Uys
Locks: Athenkosi Khethani, Albert Liebenberg, Lungisile Mbiko, Malembe Mpofu, Derik Pretorius
Backrow: Marco de Witt, Carl Els, Gustav Erlank, Phumzile Maqondwana, Lourens Oosthuizen, Carel van der Merwe, Jac van der Walt
Scrumhalves: Caleb Abrahams, Bobby Alexander, Thomas Bursey, Xavier Swartbooi
Flyhalves: Zinedine Robinson, Tyler Sefoor, George Whitehead
Centres: Zane Bester, Tyler Bocks, Tertuis Kruger, Tom Nel, Mnombo Zwelendaba
Outside backs: Cameron Hufke, Dylan Maart, Connor Mahoney, Izzy Novuka, Gurswin Wehr
