The former NWU Eagles standout is set for a rare start since joining the Peacock Blues. Robinson will link up with Jack Hart in the halfback pairing. 

Up to now, the Griquas have relied on exciting youngster Liam Koen in the No. 10 jersey, with the vastly experienced George Whitehead – who celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday (17/3) – providing steady cover off the bench. 

Despite facing only the Leopards and Valke so far in the SA Cup, both Koen and Whitehead have impressed with their composure and control.

Zinedine Robinson in action against Western Province. Photo: Louis Botha Fotografie

Robinson’s time at the Griquas has been disrupted by injury, most notably a fractured ankle. Following Tylor Sefoor’s move to the Valke, he currently finds himself third in the pecking order at flyhalf. However, Saturday presents a golden opportunity to change that narrative.

Bergh told OFM Sport that Robinson simply needs to seize the moment and, in doing so, rebuild his confidence.

“It’s a good opportunity for Zinedine,” said Bergh. “Last year was tough for him – he had a strong pre-season, but then broke his ankle, which really put him on the back foot, and he never quite got his chance after that.

“But the year before, in our last Currie Cup game against Western Province here at home, he delivered one of his best performances. We know what he’s capable of.

“He obviously hasn’t played much, so we need to keep that in mind when assessing him this weekend,” Bergh said.

“He’s had a few minutes in the friendlies, but we felt it was important to give him a start, let him run from the beginning, and just throw him in.

Liam Koen scored 19 points on debut againt the Leopards. Photo: Morgan Piek

Bergh said Robinson needs to rebuild his confidence. Over the past 18 months, he’s only played one match, so he must get game time.

“At the same time, he needs to push Liam and George, who are currently first and second choice in that position. He must apply pressure and show that when he’s needed, he’s ready to perform.”

Saturday’s clash between the Griquas and Border Bulldogs at Suzuki Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

Griquas – 15 Connor Mahoney, 14 Dylan Maart, 13 Tom Nel, 12 Mnombo Zwelendaba (captain), 11 Gurswin Wehr, 10 Zinedine Robinson, 9 Jack Hart, 8 Phumzile Maqondwana, 7 Marco de Witt, 6 Carl Els, 5 Carel van der Merwe, 4 Lungi Mbiko, 3 Johan Louw, 2 Janco Uys, 1 Miango Ngundue.

Replacements – 16 Keagan Blanckenberg, 17 Leon Lyons, 18 Ntobeko Shezi, 19 Malembe Mpofu, 20 Lourens Oosthuizen, 21 Bobby Alexander, 22 George Whitehead, 23 Sako Makata.

Border – TBA

OFM SPort/Morgan Piek sm