Suzuki Griquas reigned supreme in their top-of-the-table SA Cup clash with the Airlink Pumas when they defeated the defending champions on Sunday, April 26, to remain unbeaten in 2026.

In a high-stakes clash between the SA Cup sides, Griquas played to a hard-fought 44-34 victory at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley.

The loss means that, should the Pumas and Griquas face each other in the final, the match will be played in Kimberley. But, the Pumas have not yet secured a semi-final, let alone a home semi.

The Pumas must win their remaining two matches, against the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers on May 3, and the Nonavit Griffons on May 8. Both matches will be played at Mbombela Stadium.

The weekend’s result keeps Griquas firmly at the summit of the log with 35 points, while the defending champion Pumas are second on 28. They stand just one point ahead of the chasing pack, led by SWD in third on 27 points, while the Kavaliers are in fourth on 25, the same number of points as the Cheetahs, whose points’ difference is slightly worse.

The top four teams at the end of the single round of league action will play in the semi-finals, while also qualifying for the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division.

The Pumas, Eagles, Kavaliers and Cheetahs will be chasing the three remaining semi-final and Currie Cup qualification places in the last two rounds.

The Pumas encourage all their fans to arrive at the stadium early on Sunday and gather at the braai park for pre-match geesbou. The braai park is at the north-east side of the stadium.

“To all the Airlink Pumas faithfuls, our next two home matches come at a crucial stage of the competition. Every point matters with the log so tightly packed and four teams still fighting for three semi-final and Currie Cup qualification spots. The Pumas need their supporters now more than ever,” said Marius van Rensburg, CEO of the Mpumalanga Rugby Union.

“We urge all our fans to pack the stadium for both matches. Your presence makes a real difference; it lifts the team and puts pressure on the opposition. Bring your family on Sunday. A dedicated braai area will be available at the stadium before kick-off and again after the match, giving supporters the chance to build gees together and carry that energy into the stands. That atmosphere, passion and unity can help push the team over the line.

“If you don’t have a Pumas shirt, or you’re looking to get a new one, jerseys will be available at the Must Be Nice Gazebo at the stadium. Hollywood Bets is also giving you a chance to win R1 000 at half time, along with the opportunity to experience the game right next to the field on the pink couch – what an experience! Let’s get behind our boys and turn the stadium pink.”

On Sunday, the Suzuki Griquas held a narrow 19-15 lead at the interval following tries from Tiaan Lange, Dylan Maart and Albert Liebenberg.

The Pumas remained in striking distance through first-half tries by Thomas Bursey and Jay-cee Nel.
The second half saw the momentum swing repeatedly.

Nel’s second try briefly put the visitors ahead, but Griquas responded immediately through Carel van der Merwe and Caleb Abrahams.

Despite a Pumas fightback with tries from Tiaan de Klerk and Sango Xamlashe, George Whitehead’s accurate goal kicking and a late try from Janco Uys finally sealed the win for the home side.

The match between the Pumas and the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday will kick off at 15:00, but the gates for access to the braai park will be open early.