Madibaz looking to make mark on Varsity Cup return

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NMU Madibaz head coach Andre Tredoux opens up on last year’s Varsity Shield campaign, changes to his squad and his expectations for the coming Cup season.

NMU MADIBAZ

Last year (Varsity Shield) – Played: 4, Won: 3, Lost: 1

Best Varsity Cup finish – 4th on log (2013, 2014)

Head coach Andre Tredoux on …

Last year’s Covid-19-shortened campaign

‘Our new coaching staff watched last year’s Varsity Shield games on video to access strengths and weaknesses. There was a lot of really good stuff that we can build on going into the Varsity Cup.’

Expectations for 2021

‘Our guys are really keen to get back on to the field having not played rugby for a year. It is what they love doing, so they are excited to get going and make the step up from the Varsity Shield to the Varsity Cup. We’ve had to look hard at our fitness levels and the boys have worked really hard. We’re South Africans, so we want to win, but we also have realistic expectations. We want to be as competitive as possible in this year’s competition.’

Their squad

‘We have lost a few players from last season, including [fullback] Luvo Claassen, who is currently playing for the EP Elephants. Our captain for this season is Luyolo Dapula, who was with the Southern Kings. He is a strapping 1.92-metre lock who can also play blindside flank, so he’s a great addition for us. [Centre] Aya Oliphant and [hooker] Temba Boltina will also be part of the leadership group.’

Photo: Michael Sheehan

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Dylan Jack