Several of their standout players spent time with United Rugby Championship teams following the historic Currie Cup final in Johannesburg, where the Griquas edged the Lions to claim the world’s oldest domestic rugby competition title for the first time in 55 years.

Cebo Dlamini - Morgan Piek

Captain and tighthead prop Cebo Dlamini had a busy season, representing both the Sharks and the Dragons in Wales. George Whitehead made his URC debut for the Sharks, while Marco de Witt turned out for the Ospreys. Janco Uys and Eddie Davids linked up with the Lions, and Dylan Maart was sensational for the Stormers. Meanwhile, Gurswin Wehr took his talents to England with the Sale Sharks in the Gallagher Premiership.

All of these players - except Maart and Davids - will be back for the SA Cup, with some already deep into preseason with the Peacock Blues.

Coach Pieter Bergh told OFM Sport he is thrilled to have his stars returning, expecting them to come back stronger following the invaluable experience gained at higher levels. But for Bergh, it’s also about staying grounded and sticking to the Griquas’ core values.

“We’re slowly getting our players back from the URC and other competitions around the world,” Bergh said.

“George Whitehead and Janco Uys have already joined us, and next week Cebo Dlamini and Gurswin Wehr will be back. Only Dylan Maart and Eddie Davids won’t be with us.

Marco de Witt - Morgan Piek

“We’ve built good depth over the last few seasons, and there’s strong competition for places. It’s important that no one gets too comfortable and that everyone is pushed hard in training to get the best out of each other.

“The players coming back should be more experienced and better players, but that depends on their mindset. One of our successes last year was that there were no egos - it was all about the Griquas - and we want to continue that this season.

“So far, those who have returned have been brilliant, showing no entitlement and putting the team first. If everyone stays on the same page, these players will come back stronger and hopefully continue to improve and have great seasons with us.”

The Griquas open their SA Cup campaign at home against the Leopards. While it’s a slightly easier start, Bergh warned that the third edition of the competition will be tougher than ever, with every team needing to be respected if they’re to achieve their goals.

“We’re not going to underestimate any team. Last year the SA Cup was already stronger than the year before, and this year I expect it to be even tougher. Every team will be better this season.

“There will be extra pressure on us as Currie Cup champions. Everyone will be motivated when they play us, but sport doesn’t work like that - we have to work hard every day and be mentally ready.

Dylan Maart - Morgan Piek

“Only four teams can qualify. Valke missed out by one point last year, so we know how tough it is. We have a difficult draw away from home, and the pressure will be on us, so we need to be ready.

“Our first goal is to finish in the top four and make sure we’re in the Currie Cup. Obviously, we want to win the SA Cup, but qualification comes first.”

The Griquas kick-off their 2026 SA Cup campaign on 7 March against the Leopards at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport