The CPUT rugby men’s first team, affectionately known as Tekkies, delivered a heart-stopping performance on Saturday, that left the university community proud.

In a dramatic finale league game at Vygieskraal Stadium, the team came from behind to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat against Hamediehs RFC, overturning a 16-26 deficit with just five minutes left on the clock. Two brilliant tries in the dying moments sealed a 28-26 victory, ensuring CPUT’s place in the WP Super League B for 2026 and preventing relegation.

The match showcased these young men's resilience, determination, and sheer willpower. Tekkies’ journey this season has been far from easy — they faced narrow heartbreak in three one-point losses earlier in the campaign. Yet, under the steely leadership of Captain Kieran Naidoo, they demonstrated the kind of unity and brotherhood that defines championship rugby.

Reflecting on the season, Prof Mujahid Aziz praised the performance of all CPUT rugby teams, including the U20, 2nd, 3rd, and ladies’ teams, acknowledging the incredible challenges they faced in a tough league. “These teams have made us proud throughout the season,” he said, highlighting the talent, commitment, and passion displayed by all players.

The coaching and management staff, led by Coach Alastair Theys, received special commendation for their dedication over the past twenty weeks. Their rugby knowledge, motivation, commitment and ability to nurture young talent have kept Tekkies competitive at this high level. Theys emphasised that the Super League B campaign provided excellent preparation for the upcoming Varsity Shield competition, ensuring the team continues to grow in skill and resilience.

Written by CPUT News
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The CPUT men’s rugby team has won the B division of the University Sports South Africa tournament held recently at Wits University, Johannesburg. 

The high-scoring team won all of its three matches during the Rugby Week with convincing margins and was rewarded with medals for their efforts. 

The team beat the University of Fort Hare 50 - 37 during its opening game, then Tshwane University of Technology 34 - 24 after a heavily contested match and lastly, Rhodes University 57 - 19.

“For the first half of the Rhodes’ game the coaches gave all CPUT players who did not yet have an opportunity to start a game to be in the starting line-up,” says Student Development Officer Bulelani Mlakalaka.

“That decision put us on the back foot and the coaches had to make changes during the break, after which the team performed much better.”

During the second half, CPUT’s changed combinations dished out the best rugby of the tournament. No wonder the final score was 53 - 19 in CPUT’s favour.

CPUT Captain Henrico Jacobs received the best player of the tournament accolade in the B division.

“Physiotherapy work in the mornings and evenings ensured that all our players were in the best condition to perform, even on the days during which they rested,” brags Mlakalaka.

Written by Kwanele Butana
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.