Hawies Fourie confident ahead of new season as Boland Kavaliers chase Currie Cup dream

The Boland Kavaliers believe there will be a bigger target on their backs this season as they head into the SA Cup next month in search of Currie Cup qualification.

Hawies Fourie, Boland coach, said on Friday that they are geared for the new season, but teams will now view them with a different perspective after their strong domestic campaign last year, where they outplayed some of the top franchises in the country to reach the Currie Cup semi-finals.

Although a big task awaits them to qualify again for South Africa's oldest domestic competition, Fourie managed to retain most of his players, despite offers from elsewhere to poach them. He is hoping that continuity stands them in good stead when they start their season in March.

The Bolanders also acquired some top local players, like back Chris Smit (loan) from the Bulls and towering Pumas lock Jeandre Leonard. They will also look to utilise some Springbok Sevens players later in the season after backs Donavan Don and David Brits played key roles in 2025.

Four teams from the SA Cup (the semi-finalists) will qualify for this year's Currie Cup and will join the Lions, Bulls, Sharks and Western Province in the Premier League of the tournament in July.

While defending Currie Cup champions Griquas must qualify to be able to defend their title, Fourie believes the SA Cup is the perfect place for his side to start launching their 2026 ambitions from.

“Last year we flew a bit under the radar when qualifying, but teams will definitely have taken note of us after our performances,” Fourie said.

“We believe there will be a target on our backs. However, every team will start at zero again. I feel it is a good thing that we are playing and qualifying via the SA Cup. Although Griquas (as the defending Currie Cup champions) will probably be the unhappiest, having to qualify again to win the competition.

“But if we don’t play in the SA Cup, where will we get games? This is a good opportunity to play some rugby, improve our players and create opportunities for them. It is a positive that we are playing in the tournament.”

According to Fourie, it could’ve helped teams if there were some continuities in staying in the Currie Cup, but every team will be in the same boat in terms of qualifying.

He added that the challenge from teams like the SWD Eagles, EP Kings and Valke will be a tough one, and they will also be ready to add their name to the hat of teams wanting to play in the Currie Cup later this year.