The South African Police Service (SAPS), with the support of Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), has arrested two more drug mules at OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday.

This brings the total number of drug traffickers arrested at the international gateway to four over the past three days.

On Monday, SAPS members deployed at the airport acted on information regarding suspected drug traffickers allegedly planning to travel to Frankfurt and London via Doha.

Police spokesperson Lt Col Amanda van Wyk said authorities successfully intercepted a 66-year-old Somali national who was reportedly in possession of a Netherlands passport.

"A search of the suspect’s luggage led to the discovery of 55 kilograms of khat, with an estimated street value of more than R100,000."

On the same day, police discovered abandoned luggage at the airport containing approximately 45 kilograms of khat, worth over R90,000.

In a separate incident on April 25, 2026, a multidisciplinary team operationalised intelligence, resulting in the arrest of a 33-year-old South African female suspect who was reportedly on her way to Hong Kong.

Further investigation led to the discovery of drugs worth more than R500 000, suspected to be cocaine and crystal methamphetamine, concealed inside her luggage.

Van Wyk said all suspects are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court this week on charges related to drug trafficking.

She added that investigations are ongoing.

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique admitted his team will likely need to score several more goals away to Bayern Munich next week to be sure of reaching another Champions League final after a remarkable 5-4 victory in the first leg of their semi-final on Tuesday.

"I just asked my staff how many goals they thought we would need next week and we all think we will need to score at least three," said the Spaniard, who masterminded PSG's 5-0 triumph over Inter Milan in last season's final.

That allowed them to win the Champions League for the first time in their history and next Wednesday's semi-final second leg will be their first visit to the Allianz Arena since then.

"Bayern will of course be in their stadium and will be even stronger with their fans behind them but going back there will bring back beautiful memories for us. We want to have the same mentality and will go out to try to win the game."

Tuesday's thriller was the highest scoring semi-final match in the modern Champions League era - you have to go back to 1960 to find the last game as prolific at this stage of the European Cup.

That was a 6-3 win for Eintracht Frankfurt away to Rangers, before the Germans lost 7-3 in the final to Alfredo di Stefano's Real Madrid.

"The intensity of the game throughout was exceptional," said Luis Enrique.

"We won it and we are very pleased, but at 5-2 we thought we could have had a better result.

"We desverved to win, but we also deserved to draw and lose!"

A crazy first-half at the Parc des Princes saw Harry Kane give Bayern the lead with an early penalty, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Joao Neves strike for the hosts and Michael Olise then make it 2-2, only for an Ousmane Dembele penalty to put PSG back ahead at the interval.

Kvaratskhelia and Dembele then both scored for PSG before the hour mark, leaving them seemingly out of sight at 5-2, but Dayot Upamecano and Luis Diaz pulled goals back for Bayern.

That ensures it will be game on next week in Munich, and there is a strong chance this tie could become the most prolific ever in the Champions League.

The record for most goals in a two-legged tie in Europe's elite club competition is 13, including in last season's semi-final in which Inter beat Barcelona 7-6 on aggregate.

"I was proud of how we reacted at 5-2. It was incredible how the players fought back," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany, who had to watch from the stands due to suspension, an experience he described as a "catastrophe".

Asked about the attacking approach of the two teams, he added: "Football is a bit like religion - people believe what they believe, and there is not one style of play that is superior to another.

"What happened today was a clash of two similar ideas - normally in these situations you have one team that starts to sit back a bit but neither team wanted to do that and that is why the match was how it was," he said.

Bayern will hope to overturn their one-goal deficit next week as they look to reach a first Champions League final since 2020.

"It can't come quick enough," Kompany said of the return leg.

"There is not much in it and we just need to win the game. The weight of our stadium can make a difference. It is a legendary venue where Bayern have had so many great successes."

AFP

Kaizer Chiefs will be eager to bag three points and bounce back to winning ways when they visit Siwelele in a Betway Premiership clash at Free State Stadium on Wednesday night (7.30pm kick-off).

Chiefs have been enjoying a purple patch. They are unbeaten in their last seven games, having won five and drawn the other two against Polokwane City and Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby.

With their defence in safe hands, and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen showing his brilliance since the start of the season, we look at three players who must step up against Siwelele.

Wandile Duba – Attacker

Duba showed up in the Soweto derby, making a solo run down the flank before setting up Pule Mmodi to score the opener. His pace, aggression with and without the ball, and eye for an assist or key pass are what make him stand out. However, Duba needs to deliver that on a consistent basis.

Lebohang Maboe – Midfield

Maboe has been a kingpin in Chiefs’ engine room, serving as the link between defence and attack. He thrives on breaking up play and breaking tight lines going forward. However, he can’t afford to rest on his laurels now. He must continue keeping things tidy to ensure that Amakhosi are well-organised in the run-in.

Bradley Cross – Left-back

Cross has been one of Chiefs’ livewires. He has settled under co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, knowing when to track back and push forward, adding numbers in attack. Given his glowing reviews, he needs to finish the season on a high, as that could possibly earn him a Bafana Bafana call-up ahead of the World Cup.

More than 40,000 learners are set to lose access to government-funded scholar transport due to severe budget cuts.

The Department of Education has revealed a “proposal” that will decrease the number of learners benefiting from scholar transport from 76,000 to 32,000 by July this year, leaving the balance without transport. This development has troubled department officials, who indicated that this is a reversal of their gains, pointing out that the cuts come as there are more than 100,000 learners on the waiting list for the service.

The department briefed members of the committee and warned that the scholar transport function could completely collapse by August this year.

The department was forced to reduce the number of buses and taxis transporting pupils to schools due to funding shortfalls.

This function is managed by the Department of Transport on behalf of the Department of Education.

The revelations stunned members of the Education Portfolio Committee, who warned that this could trigger high absenteeism, deprive learners of education, and entrench inequality. The scholar transport service assists thousands of learners who live far from their schools. Currently, the service includes a contracted fleet of 611 buses, 19 midi buses, and 35 taxis, benefiting 76,000 learners from 434 schools, with an estimated budget of R669 million.

Department official, Vukani Khumalo, briefed the committee members and stated that the situation has been critical over the past few years due to funding shortfalls. Khumalo noted that in recent years, the programme has continuously faced budget shortfalls, leading to the allocated budget being exhausted within the earlier months of the financial year.

“Previously, the provincial treasury was able to supplement the budget mid-financial year to prevent disruption of the programme. However, due to the treasury's own budgetary constraints in recent years, they have not been able to intervene lately,” Khumalo said.

“This situation has led to the Department of Transport, which signed contracts with service providers, continuing to pay from their own budget to avoid the collapse of the programme in the middle of the financial year,” he added.

Khumalo told the committee members about the dire situation, stating, “The main issue we are presenting to this committee relates to the reduction of the current fleet by almost half as a result of budgetary constraints.”

“We are in a very bad situation that we found ourselves in, which is likely to collapse the programme before the end of the calendar year,” he said. He said while the budget for the required function is R669 million this financial year, the allocated budget is only R339 million. Over the last three years, the budget has been cut by almost R100 million per year.

The department said as of 2025, they have looked to reduce the number of schools served, cutting services to schools where there is reliable public transport or where learners travel less than five kilometres to school.

They intend to cut 40 schools, reducing the number of schools receiving transport to about 388. He added that while this reduces the projected budget for the function from R669 million to R520 million, there is still a shortfall of R180 million. “In that process, we had to cut to the bone; we tried to remove every school that no longer qualified (where there is reliable public transport and learners travel less than five kilometres to school).”

The report on the matter showed that as a result of the cuts, the number of buses will drop from 611 to 359, and taxis from 235 to 207.

“The department stated that this decision carries serious risks for the department and education as a whole. We have identified serious risks associated with the removal of so many learners from the programme, including massive province-wide protests which might grind the education system to a halt and may lead to violence and damage,” the report said. It further noted the decision to remove so many learners from the programme would be in breach of the child’s right to education.

Hlengiwe Mavimbela, chairperson of the Committee, said the function must be scrutinised to ensure that indeed the ones who benefit are the learners who need it. “We have seen that learners who are not supposed to be benefiting are benefiting, such as learners being transported to a school of choice, not the school of need.”

She warned that disruption to the service in the middle of the academic year would be disruptive and could result in more children dropping out,” said the chairperson.

Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and stated he would engage with Premier Thami Ntuli on the matter and would be discussing it with the cabinet.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

KwaZulu-Natal recorded a net loss of 41,000 jobs in the final quarter of 2025, as newly expanded labour force data presented at the provincial Jobs and Skills Summit revealed a deeper and more complex unemployment crisis than previously measured.

Speaking at the summit hosted by Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli and Economic Development MEC Musa Zondi at the Durban ICC on Tuesday, Statistics South Africa’s Anneline Creighton said recent methodological changes now capture previously unmeasured forms of labour underutilisation.

Creighton said the revised Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), aligned with International Labour Organization standards, now includes “time-related underemployment” and a broader “potential labour force.”

“This essentially says there are persons available to work, but they are not given sufficient hours,” she said. “We are now capturing those hours as underemployment.”

The changes also include people who are willing to work but not actively searching, as well as students seeking entry into the labour market.

Nationally, the official unemployment rate declined slightly to 31.5% in the fourth quarter of 2025, down by 0.5 percentage points. However, when the expanded indicators are included, the combined rate rises sharply to 42.1%, representing about 12.4 million people either unemployed or outside the labour force but still wanting work.

Creighton said this broader measure “gives an idea of the full extent of those that are actually not working.”

In KwaZulu-Natal, the picture is worsening. The provincial unemployment rate increased from 31.7% to 32.3%, marking the first time the province has exceeded the national average in recent quarters.

“We had about 16,000 more people unemployed,” she said. “We’ve lost 41,000 jobs in KZN for quarter four.”

The losses were concentrated in trade and community services, while modest gains were recorded in transport, finance, and agriculture.

The data also points to structural challenges. Long-term unemployment defined as joblessness exceeding 12 months, now accounts for about 80% of all unemployed people nationally.

“Youth are still bearing the brunt of unemployment,” Creighton said, noting that those aged 15 to 24 face unemployment rates as high as 57%.

The revised data further shows that about one-third of South Africa’s youth—roughly 3.5 million people—are not in employment, education, or training (NEET), underscoring the scale of disengagement from the economy.

Education remains a key differentiator. Graduates face an unemployment rate of 10.3%, significantly lower than those without matric (37.6%). However, in KwaZulu-Natal, graduate unemployment stands at 19.9%, nearly double the national figure.

Creighton said the expanded data also highlights the composition of those outside the labour force, with students making up 36.7%, followed by discouraged work-seekers at around one-fifth.

“These are the people that we actually really have to focus on in terms of tackling unemployment and absorbing them into the economy,” she said.

The summit, convened to address unemployment and skills shortages, is expected to focus on aligning education and training systems with labour market demands, as well as improving pathways into employment.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Durban snake catcher, Nick Evans, has unpacked the real story behind the python spotted swimming at sea.

Last week, a video went viral on social media showing a snake swimming out at sea.

Taking to social media, Evans explained that the snake was spotted by Dwayne Boshoff and his father, who were competing in a fishing competition.

"To their disbelief, they spotted the snake swimming about 2.5km out at sea.

"The father and son team didn't hesitate, and hurried into action. Mr. Boshoff got the boat close enough, while Dwayne, who is not a seasoned snake-catcher, brilliantly scooped the snake out of the water, securing the sharp end and supporting the body," he said.

Evans said the men, who obviously had no plans to catch a python that day, were without a snake bucket, and put the reptile in the hatch of the boat.

Boshoff's brother, Dean, contacted Evans for assistance.

Evans said that the boat's design meant it could not come ashore, so he and his wife, Carla, had to walk into the water to get the snake.

"We started walking in with Dwayne and Dean, while every wave seemed to enjoy hitting us. We thought we were going about waist-deep. We went a lot deeper than that! Finally, we were pulled onto the boat by Mr Boshoff, and drove out to calmer waters," Evans said.

He said when the hatch was opened, Carla reached in to grab the snake.

"The python is a minimum of 2.5m, probably more actually, and is a male in good condition.Dwayne swam with our python box, so we put it in there," Evans said.

He said they jumped into the water and had to swim while pulling the floating box, containing the snake.

Evans said one safely on land, the snake was assessed and washed with fresh water.

He said that there were no definitive answers for how the snake ended up at sea.

"It could have been well hidden in of the dozens of boats, or it could have swam across a river and ended up in the sea. Unfortunately, we'll never know," Evans said.

Evans has thanked the Boshoffs for their act of bravery and kindness.

COMMENT

The elevation of the Lions from United Rugby Championship also-rans to genuine play-off contenders has been one of the most compelling narratives of the current season.

While the explosive pace of the back three and the abrasive nature of their pack often grabbing the headlines, the quiet architect behind this resurgence has been flyhalf Chris Smith. Since his move to Johannesburg, Smith has played with a level of authority that suggests he is no longer just a reliable provincial pivot, but a player who warrants to be in the Springbok selection debate.

The case for Smith begins with the fundamental requirements of a Test-level flyhalf: game management and goal-kicking.

In the altitude-assisted arena of Ellis Park, Smith has mastered the art of the tactical long-game. His ability to pin opposition teams back with a probing boot has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ six-match winning streak at home.

Moreover, his success rate off the tee remains among the highest in the competition. In the pressure-cooker environment of international rugby, where Test matches are frequently decided by three-point margins, Smith’s metronomic accuracy is a luxury Rassie Erasmus cannot easily ignore.

However, Smith has added a layer of flair to his pragmatism. He has become adept at taking the ball to the line, identifying the soft shoulders in defensive structures, and releasing the Lions’ dangerous runners at the perfect moment. A great example of his skillset was on show during the Connacht win this past weekend, when he produced two wonderful passes that ended with Angelo Davids scoring the first try of the match.

It feels like Smith has come out of his shell and embracing his "main character" tag after playing second fiddle as a back-up option almost everywhere he has played. Confidence can really bring out the best version of player.

The road to a Springbok jersey, however, is congested with world-class talent, each offering a different proposition to the Boks at flyhalf. To break into the Springbok squad, Smith must navigate a hierarchy that is as deep as it has ever been.

Handré Pollard remains the gold standard when it comes to big-match temperament, having kicked the Bulls to victory in Saturday night’s late kick-off against the Scarlets. His experience and ability to execute under pressure make him a valuable asset despite falling behind younger, more attacking flyhalves.

Manie Libbok has been cooking in Japan’s second division, looking like a player mentally refreshed away from the spotlight in South Africa. He remains the country’s premier attacking flyhalf, offering a level of unpredictability that can dismantle any defence. 

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, however, is an incumbent that will not be easily unseated. His physical presence, massive boot, and ability to turn any game on its head, with his running ability have made him the darling of the selectors. He hasn’t the greatest of seasons, but his all-round play make the No 1 choice in the No 10 jersey

Where does this leave Smith, then?

Well, he represents a middle ground. He is more territorially dominant than Libbok, yet more comfortable in an expansive, high-tempo system than Pollard.

In the Lions’ recent victory over Connacht, Smith showed he could manage a game through periods dominance and when they had a player in the bin without losing his composure, a trait that has defined Springbok rugby in the Erasmus-era.

While he may not possess the flashy footwork of Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s highlight reel, Chris Smith possesses the one thing the national selectors value above all else: a winning habit. As the Lions continue to roar, the noise surrounding their flyhalf’s international credentials is only going to get louder.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has dismissed claims of rising xenophobia in the province, characterising recent tensions as a "demonstration of civil society" concerned with undocumented migration rather than a hatred of foreigners. 

Speaking at the KZN Jobs and Skills Summit alongside Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs MEC Musa Zondi, Ntuli sought to set the record straight on the international narrative surrounding the province’s social climate.

“There is no xenophobia in KwaZulu-Natal,” Ntuli stated firmly. “I know that what you see there is a demonstration of civil society or civic organisations that are saying we are worried about people who are coming to South Africa without documents.”

The Premier's comments come in the wake of viral videos and organised movements calling for the deportation of undocumented foreign nationals. Ntuli noted that these groups are largely advocating for adherence to legal processes, urging individuals to "go back and get proper documents."

He emphasised that the government is actively working to address the "problem" of illegal immigration but warned that protests pose risks to the province’s reputation.

While acknowledging the frustrations of the public, Ntuli issued a stern warning against the daily disruption of economic activities and the potential for violence. He argued that sustained, daily protests risk projecting an image of a "government that is not stable" to the rest of the world.

“It's even worse when there is confrontation and conflicts. It presents a government that is having instability or violence,” he said. The Premier expressed concern over "criminal elements" who have begun to hijack legitimate civic concerns to sow chaos.

“We are worried with the criminal elements among those hijacking the protests. Because there are those now who are using these demonstrations to do what is not supposed to be done,” Ntuli added.

Addressing the citizens of KZN directly, the Premier urged for a return to legislated channels of grievance. While he acknowledged the right to express frustration, he insisted that such expressions must remain within the parameters of the law.

“While it's acceptable to write a message or statement, we must be law-abiding citizens while we express our frustration and our concerns.”

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Orlando Pirates might not be pleased with the six points they’ve dropped recently, but they could still become champions at the end of the season – thanks to competitors Mamelodi Sundowns also dropping points.

Pirates are top of the standings with 59 points, one ahead of Sundowns, who will play their game in hand against Polokwane City at Seshego Stadium on Wednesday night (7.30pm kick-off).

Granted, Sundowns are favourites on paper, but such has been their run of form lately that anything can happen in Seshego. Sundowns dropped four points in their last two games – at home to Stellenbosch and away to Richards Bay.

Given the fact that Polokwane City also beat them at home last season, coach Phuti Mohafe and his players are expected to show the same resilience at home and possibly cause another upset against the reigning champions.

Anything other than a win for Sundowns could benefit Pirates in their title push. That’s what the recent four points dropped by Sundowns have done.

Pirates looked to be out of the title race when they drew with Siwelele at home, Richards Bay away and Kaizer Chiefs at home. The advantage seemed to have swung towards Sundowns, as they were expected to capitalise on their games in hand due to their form. However, that wasn’t the case.

Playing in two competitions seems to be a daunting task for Sundowns. Since shifting focus to their CAF Champions League semi-final second leg – in which they beat Esperance 1-0 at home to win the tie 2-0 – they’ve struggled domestically.

That feat suggested they could drop more points this month, as they will also focus on winning the two-legged CAF Champions League final against AS FAR, starting with the first leg on May 17.

Winning those games in hand won’t be their only challenge. They will still face Polokwane City in a back-to-back fixture, as well as a rejuvenated Chiefs side in the coming days.

Pirates, meanwhile, don’t have such distractions. Their focus is solely on the league, while their four fixtures against Stellenbosch, Magesi, Durban City and Orbit College make them favourites.

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou knows that he has depth at his disposal; however, they need to make up for their inexperience in title races by showing grit and desire in all the remaining games this season.

Granted, individual brilliance has helped them in difficult moments, with Relebohile Mofokeng standing out in recent matches. But it cannot be that when Mofokeng is not in form, the team completely fades away. They need to function as a unit, with individual performances complementing the collective effort.

Pirates also cannot afford to drop their heads when they concede first. They need to maintain their fighting spirit – not only to get the equaliser but to push for the win. In all three draws, they conceded first and failed to come out victorious.

It is well documented that they lack a lethal striker, as Yanela Mbuthuma and Evidence Makgopa have not been consistently finding the net. However, the players need to understand that sharing the scoring responsibilities is just as important as defending – especially with Sipho Chaine having impressively matched a club record of 17 clean sheets already this season.

The South African government has extended and expanded its temporary fuel levy relief measures in an effort to shield households and businesses from continued fuel price pressures driven by the ongoing Middle East conflict.

In a joint announcement, the National Treasury and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources confirmed that the temporary reduction in the general fuel levy, initially introduced in April, will remain in place through June, with phased adjustments before ending in July.

The departments said the original relief package, announced on March 31, was introduced to provide “limited short-term relief to households from rising fuel prices following the Middle East conflict.”

With international oil prices remaining elevated, government said further intervention had become necessary.

“To provide further relief and to address concerns of higher inflation and negative impacts on economic growth due to increasing fuel prices, the following relief measures are proposed for May and June 2026.” 

Under the revised measures, the R3 per litre fuel levy reduction on petrol will be extended until June 2, 2026.

Diesel users will receive even greater relief, with the levy cut increasing by 93 cents to R3.93 per litre from May 6 to June 2, effectively reducing the diesel general fuel levy to zero during that period.

“The general fuel levy for diesel will decrease from R0.93 per litre to R0.00 per litre,” Treasury said.

From 3 June to 30 June, the relief will be scaled back as government begins phasing out the intervention.

For that month, petrol relief will be reduced to R1.50 per litre, while diesel relief will be lowered to R1.96 per litre.

The full fuel levy will be reinstated from July 1, with petrol returning to R4.10 per litre and diesel to R3.93 per litre.

Government estimates the total cost of the temporary relief measures from April through June at R17.2 billion in foregone tax revenue.

However, Treasury stressed that the intervention “is designed to be revenue neutral” and will be funded through “a combination of higher-than-expected tax revenue and underspending,” adding that the package “will not have an impact on the fiscal framework adopted by Parliament following the 2026 Budget.”

Officials also warned that motorists may still face additional price adjustments through the fuel pricing mechanism.

“It should also be noted that according to the Self Adjusting Slate mechanism the under recovery of importers of petroleum products must also be accommodated,” the statement noted, adding that “the Slate levy on petrol and diesel will also be adjusted for the month of May.”

Meanwhile, the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said it has launched a broader review of South Africa’s fuel pricing formula.

“The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources has initiated a review of the formula whose conclusion will determine how fuel prices are regulated going forward.” 

The extension comes as policymakers attempt to balance inflationary pressures, economic growth concerns and fiscal discipline amid volatile global energy markets.

IOL

Durban-born opera singer, Mimi Coertse has passed away. She was 93-years-old.

The sad news was shared by long-time friend, Lizet Du Plessis.

"It is with great sadness to share with everyone who loved her that Our Mimi passed away peacefully in her sleep last night.

"Our thoughts are with her children, Mia and Werner, and grandchildren, whom she loved so fiercely," Du Plessis shared in a post on social media.

She said funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Coertse later matriculated at the Helpmekaar Girls High School in Johannesburg. She started her vocal studies in 1949, and her debut performance was in 1951.

In 1953, Coertse married SA composer Dawid Engela. The couple divorced, and she went on to marry Italian businessman Diego Brighi in 1965. When that marriage ended, Coertse married South African businessman, Werner Ackerman, in 1970 and the marriage lasted until 1994.

She had two children, Werner and Mia. 

Throughout her illustrious career, she went on to receive a number of honours and awards including the Austrian Cross of Honour for Science and Art, the Title of Kammersängerin, and an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Pretoria.

IOL

Bernard Parker is hoping that his TS Galaxy side maintains their cup final record, particularly in the Nedbank Cup, when they face Durban City at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday night (6pm kick-off).

Galaxy have had mixed performances this year. They are enduring an 11-game winless streak, following nine defeats and two draws. However, they’ve been near-flawless in the Nedbank Cup, reaching the final of the competition.

The team’s poor run of form led to the sacking of coach Adnan Beganovic, who was in just his second season at the club, following an impressive top-eight finish in his first campaign after the departure of Sead Ramovic.

Enter Parker. The former Kaizer Chiefs player takes over the reins following an impressive playing career, which included spells abroad and, most recently, with Galaxy.

While he might be taking over coaching duties in the senior division for the first time, he has a background in coaching, having worked with Galaxy’s reserve team before he was Beganovic’s assistant.

The final will test Parker’s readiness to compete with the big boys full-time. However, he feels that he’s ready.

Having created history by becoming the first NFD side to win the competition – beating Parker’s Chiefs team in the final in Durban – Parker hopes that he is now on the winning side with Galaxy.

“I think the universe designed it. It’s by God’s grace,” Parker said. “Nobody expected that I would be in this situation – it came as a shock. People expected things otherwise regarding who should be in charge of the Nedbank Cup final.

“Other than that, I am a servant of the game – as a player previously, and now as a coach. A lot of work is done behind the scenes; the club is working together with the coaches and the players.

“The confidence and trust that the chairman has shown in me makes me proud and confident that I have what it takes (to do well). I also have the players’ response. So, it’s for all of us to go there and make sure that history repeats itself.”

Parker admitted that the players weren’t in the right state of mind in recent weeks, which is why winning the Nedbank Cup could help them rediscover their winning mentality.

“We don’t have time, and we have seen that the players are not at the right level mentally and physically. That’s why we had a string of losses,” Parker stated. “The good thing, though, is that we have the Nedbank Cup to fight for.

“We rode on the good fighting spirit that we had against Sundowns. With everything that has been happening, we still have the quality, energy and character, most importantly, to turn things around.”

Having been with the team for some time, Parker insisted that he knew what was wrong all along – which is why he was able to find immediate solutions. He drew his first game in charge, earning a precious point that could come in handy in their fight for survival.

“I am happy that we have completed most of the things so far. I have brought in a change in how we want to do things,” Parker said.

“We are making sure that we look more solid and mature. That will help in ensuring that we are a tough opponent to beat. The response of the players has been great; we just need to execute properly.”

South African opera singer, Mimi Coertse has passed away. She was 93-years-old.

The sad news was shared by long-time friend, Lizet Du Plessis.

"It is with great sadness to share with everyone who loved her that Our Mimi passed away peacefully in her sleep last night.

"Our thoughts are with her children, Mia and Werner, and grandchildren, whom she loved so fiercely," Du Plessis shared in a post on social media.

She said funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Coertse was born in Durban and later matriculated at the Helpmekaar Girls High School in Johannesburg. She started her vocal studies in 1949, and her debut performance was in 1951.

In 1953, Coertse married SA composer Dawid Engela. The couple divorced, and she went on to marry Italian businessman Diego Brighi in 1965. When that marriage ended, Coertse married South African businessman, Werner Ackerman, in 1970 and the marriage lasted until 1994.

She had two children, Werner and Mia. 

Throughout her illustrious career, she went on to receive a number of honours and awards including the Austrian Cross of Honour for Science and Art, the Title of Kammersängerin, and an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Pretoria.

IOL

Kaizer Chiefs are confident that they can bag all three points against Siwelele in their Betway Premiership clash on Wednesday night (7.30pm kick-off), although they know the Bloemfontein-based side will be tough hosts.

Chiefs are relishing a seven-game unbeaten run. They won five games in a row and drew the last two, including against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Given the fact that Chiefs went into the Soweto derby as underdogs, were on the back of a 3-0 embarrassment in the reverse fixture, and sustained a pre-match brawl which resulted in them cutting short their warm-ups, the point was precious.

However, they can’t dwell on the past. They need to bounce back to winning ways and get points against Siwelele at Free State Stadium.

The trip to the City of Roses will be a special one for Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy, and that’s why he’s motivated to help Amakhosi secure three points and keep their top-three aspirations alive.

“Playing in Bloem is not extra special, but it’s sort of sentimental to me because it’s where my father (Fabian McCarthy) started playing,” McCarthy said. “I am looking forward to that, and confident (that we’ll win).”

A Chiefs win could also see them surpass the 50-point tally for the first time since they finished second with 59 points during the 2019/20 season under coach Ernst Middendorp.

McCarthy is not naive, though, thinking that Siwelele will be there for the taking. They are also desperate for three points to ensure safety and make a late push for the top eight. They are currently 11th on the log with 29 points, six behind eighth-placed Golden Arrows, who have played one game more.

“Siwelele is a good team. They managed to draw with Pirates, so we shouldn’t underestimate their individual performers. Going into the rest of the season, we just need to do the most as a team and make sure that we get three points in each and every game,” McCarthy explained.

With games coming thick and fast, players are enduring many challenges, taking knocks physically and emotionally. As such, during the goalless draw with Polokwane City, McCarthy felt uncomfortable and had to be substituted.

“In the other game, I had stiffness in my left hamstring. It was a precautionary move to be substituted and not an injury,” McCarthy added. “So, that was to be sure that I am fit and ready to play in the derby.”

McCarthy has been integral to Chiefs’ recent resurgence. As such, there were recent reports that he was rewarded with a contract extension by the club.

Should he continue delivering eye-catching performances, it might not be long before he becomes an Amakhosi legend, following in the footsteps of his father.

With left-footed defenders in the country also rare, his rise and maturity could attract the attention of the Bafana Bafana coach, possibly after the World Cup, as coach Hugo Broos has likely finalised his squad.

The KwaZulu-Natal police are searching for an outstanding suspect wanted for the murder of the Monswamy family of seven.

This was confirmed by Deputy KZN provincial police commissioner Major General Anthony Gopaul when he was speaking to the media outside court on Tuesday.  KZN Premier Thami Ntuli attended the court appearance. 

Three other men charged with the murders made a brief appearance in the KwaDukuza Magistrate's Court on Tuesday. They also face charges of kidnapping and robbery.

According to reports, the men the accused, aged 21, 26 and 28 informed the court that they did not want to apply for bail at this stage.

While the court allowed media photographers to take pictures, it ordered that the faces of the men not be shown.

The case has been adjourned to June 23.

The victims - Alan and Sandy Monswamy, their children Kraidon and Shamarie, and relatives Cliffy Padayachee, Mooniamma Padayachee and Mariamma Appanah were kidnapped from their Newark home in northern KZN on Tuesday night. 

They were found murdered in Melmoth the following day. 

Deputy KZN provincial police commissioner Major General Anthony Gopaul told eNCA on Tuesday that investigators have been hard at work on the matter while the search for the fourth suspect is under way.

“The team has been working tirelessly from the instance of the arrests, even through the weekend including the public holiday, putting things together not just for court but pursuing the outstanding suspect which created a lot of momentum.”

Gopaul also confirmed that Alan Monswamy's Ford Ranger that was used by the suspects to transport the family to Melmoth was recovered by the police and evidence had been collected from it.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Close to 5,000 invoices have been processed through eThekwini Municipality's new online invoice system after concerns were raised by service providers about payment delays.

The municipality said in a statement on Tuesday that it has processed 5,000 invoices through its newly introduced online invoice payment system, with a further 2,982 invoices approved for payment.

Service providers recently protested outside the City's offices in the Durban CBD arguing they have not been paid for months.  

The municipality had said at the time that system was had been behind the delays. 

The introduction of the online invoice system forms part of the Municipality’s broader efforts to enhance efficiency, transparency, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing financial management.

“Service providers are encouraged to continue working collaboratively with the Municipality during this transition period to ensure full compliance,” said the municipality in a statement.

The new system introduces several key benefits aimed at improving the overall experience for service providers and strengthening financial governance:

• Improved turnaround times through automated workflows and reduced manual processing
• Enhanced transparency, allowing service providers to track the status of their invoices
• Greater accuracy by minimising human error associated with manual submissions
• Strengthened compliance with financial regulations and audit requirements
• Better record management, with all invoices securely stored and easily accessible.

The city reminded service providers of the importance of submitting invoices timeously.

“This will assist the Municipality in meeting its commitment to process payments within 14 days for SMMEs and within 30 days for all other service providers, in line with regulatory requirements.

In line with previous communications, service providers are encouraged to utilise the system by uploading their invoices directly onto the platform.

For those experiencing difficulties or lacking access to computers, assistance is available at the relevant line directorates,” it said.

The municipality said that from 4 May 2026, service providers may also visit Sizakala Centres for support with uploading invoices to their profiles on the portal.

The Municipality will continue to provide training, and service providers are encouraged to attend.

In addition to the available video resource, training may also be requested by emailing: Accountspay.ewfqueries@durban.gov.za

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY 

The Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates is the crown jewel of South African sport, a vibrant explosion of colour, history, and passion that divides even the most loving of households and brings the nation to a standstill .

But on Sunday, as the scheduled kick-off time came and went with the FNB Stadium still surrounded by thousands of desperate fans, it became something else: a logistical nightmare that threatens to tarnish the prestige of one of Africa’s greatest footballing rivalries.

When a match of this magnitude starts 40 minutes late, it is not merely an "inconvenience." It is a failure of planning that borders on the dangerous.

The scenes outside the stadium have become an all-too-familiar script. Gridlocked traffic, frustrated supporters pushing against perimeter fences, and a digital ticketing system that often buckles under the sheer volume of 90 000 people trying to access a single geographical point.

On Sunday, the decision to delay the start was a "safety measure," a term that serves as a polite euphemism for the fact that organisers lost control of the flow of human traffic.

Logistically, the FNB Stadium sits in a unique pinch-point. While it is a world-class architectural marvel, its surrounding infrastructure remains trapped in a bygone era. The "last mile" of the journey for fans is a gauntlet. When you combine insufficient parking management with a culture of "fashionably late" arrivals, you create a recipe for the chaos we witnessed.

However, the blame does not rest solely with the authorities. There is a hard truth that South African football fans must face: We are our own worst enemies when it comes to match-day punctuality.

Despite repeated pleas from Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and the PSL to arrive at least three hours before kick-off, the African sun often sees the stands half-empty thirty minutes before the first whistle. The "late surge" is a phenomenon that no amount of turnstiles can solve if 40 000 people decide to enter the stadium simultaneously.

Yet, this does not excuse the organisers from the responsibility of evolution. In an era where technology and AI keep progressing, it is galling that the simple act of scanning a barcode and passing through a gate remains such a point of friction.

We have seen global events manage similar crowds with far more surgical precision. Why is the Soweto Derby still treated with the logistical rigour of a pre-season friendly?

The Soweto Derby deserves better because of what it represents. It is the one day where the social fabric of South Africa is woven together through 90 minutes of football.

For the fans who save their hard-earned money for months to travel from the far reaches of the Eastern Cape or Limpopo, being caught in a crush outside while the opening whistle blows is a betrayal of their loyalty.

Organisers must move beyond reactive measures. We need a radical rethinking of the precinct’s transport plan, perhaps involving mandatory park-and-ride schemes from central hubs in Johannesburg and Soweto.

Digitally, the integration of transport and ticketing needs to be seamless to prevent the bottlenecking that leads to these delays.

Simultaneously, the fans must honour the occasion. Respecting the kick-off time is a respect for the game itself. A 40-minute delay disrupts the rhythm of the players, the broadcast schedules, and the international image of the league.

If the Soweto Derby is truly to be measured against the El Clásicos and Old Firms of the world, it must be world-class from the moment a fan leaves their front door, not just when the ball is in play. Anything less is a disservice to a rivalry that remains the heartbeat of South African sport.

Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has formally requested the National Treasury to launch an investigation into allegations of procurement irregularities regarding textbooks for the Foundation Phase.

In a media statement released on Tuesday, Gwarube expressed “serious concern” following media reports detailing potential malfeasance within the department's procurement processes.

The request follows serious reports involving the awarding of contracts for Grades 1 to 3 learning materials. Central to the allegations is a newly formed entity, Lighthouse Publishers, which reportedly secured approximately 26% of the national catalogue approvals—a deal estimated to be worth over R285 million. 

Concerns were raised after it emerged the company was registered just days after the tender’s terms of reference were released, sparking questions about the fairness of the selection process.

The minister emphasised that the integrity of these processes is paramount, noting that the delivery of quality educational materials to over 13.7 million learners across South Africa hangs in the balance.

"Any compromise in the integrity of textbook procurement directly threatens the ability of the education system to function effectively and undermines the constitutional right of every child to access basic education," Gwarube stated.

Gwarube confirmed she has written to Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana to request a formal intervention. She cited National Treasury’s role as the legal custodian of procurement compliance in South Africa as the primary reason for seeking their counsel before taking further internal steps. 

The minister issued a stern warning to those who may be implicated in the alleged scheme, promising swift action should the Treasury investigation uncover evidence of wrongdoing.

"Should the investigation by Treasury uncover malfeasance, I will not hesitate to act," Gwarube said. "Any and all those implicated will be dealt with. I cannot allow the future of our children to be compromised by corrupt individuals."

The Department of Basic Education has not provided a specific timeline for the investigation.

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KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, is at the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday to attend the court appearance of three suspects who have been arrested for the killing of seven members of the Monswamy family.

Three suspects, aged 21, 26, and 28, are set to appear in the dock while the search continues for the remaining two at large. 

The victims were Alan and Sandy Monswamy, along with their children Kraidon and Shamarie, plus relatives Cliffy Padayachee, Mooniamma Padayachee, and Mariamma Appanah. 

The victims were allegedly been abducted from their home in Newark and their bodies were later discovered in a secluded area near Melmoth. They had been stabbed or shot. One of the victims was also raped by the suspects before being killed.

In a statement, the KZN provincial government said the premier’s attendance underscores the government’s unwavering support for the bereaved families and affected communities, as well as its firm stance against violent crime.

“Premier Ntuli is attending proceedings to stand in solidarity with the victims’ families and to reinforce the call that those accused of such heinous crimes should face the full might of the law, including opposing the granting of bail under these circumstances.”

Dozens of people and members of political parties including the DA and MK Party have also gathered outside the court to call for bail to be denied to the accused.

The KZN Department of Community Safety and Liaison said its staff together with its Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV) activist were also holding a picket outside the court.

The department said collected a number of signatures in a form of a petition that forms part of a united community response to strongly oppose the granting of bail to the suspects.

“The department, alongside civil society, community members, and GBV activists, will stand in solidarity with the bereaved family and send a clear message that violent crimes of this nature cannot be normalised, nor treated with leniency.”

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

The Legal Practice Council's case to have attorney Douglas Shaw suspended for appearing in a matter, where the applicants are seeking certification of a R60 billion class action against major banks, is expected before the court this week.

Shaw appeared earlier this year in the Johannesburg High Court without a Fidelity Fund Certificate - which is a vital document that all attorneys and some advocates must have. This document is a mandatory annual licence for legal practitioners (attorneys and certain advocates) in South Africa, confirming they are authorised to operate a trust account and handle client funds. It is issued by the Legal Practice Council (LPC) and protects the public against theft of funds.

Shaw has been driving the class case on behalf of previous homeowners who initiated the action against the banks aggrieved with how they lost their homes.

The LPC has now filed an application in the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria, for an urgent order seeking to have Shaw suspended.

Earlier this year, as Judge Leonie Windell was preparing to hear the long-awaited banks application, a legal representative for one of the banks informed the court that Shaw did not have a Fidelity Fund Certificate. This, the court was told, was divulged by a whistleblower.

Shaw explained to the court at the time that he had the certificate last year, but it was not renewed for this year. He explained that due to work pressure and being "overwhelmed", he simply did not get around to renewing it.

He, however, assured the court that he is on the brink of receiving it and that only a few documents required by the LPC were still outstanding.

But Judge Windell was adamant that without it, he would be off the case. She also requested the LPC to investigate the matter and to report back to court. The Gauteng arm of the LPC, in its report, stated that Shaw not only brought the legal profession into disrepute but committed a criminal offence when he appeared without a Fidelity Fund Certificate.

The Investigating Committee of the LPC recommended that an urgent application be brought to suspend Shaw from the roll of legal practitioners.

While the LPC has remained mum regarding the application, Shaw yesterday did confirm that the matter will be in court this week.

He declined to comment on the issue at this stage, other than to say that he will vigorously oppose it.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

The South African Reserve Bank has, for the first time, revealed that Ithala SOC Limited failed to meet several key conditions during the application process to become a commercial bank, leading to its application being declined.

One of the conditions contained in the Final Exemption Notice issued to Ithala required it to obtain authorisation to establish a bank before the actual application for a banking licence, prior to 30 June 2023. The Reserve Bank said Ithala failed to comply with this specific condition and all other conditions contained in the Final Exemption Notice, which were linked.

While Ithala had been conducting the business of a bank and accepting deposits from members of the public for a number of years, it was operating in terms of an exemption granted to it by the Finance Minister. It was understood that during this period Ithala would carry out the necessary processes to obtain a banking licence.

When the exemption expired, the Prudential Authority (PA) appointed a repayment administrator to recover and take possession of all deposits taken by Ithala from depositors or under its control in terms of the Banks Act.

The SA Reserve Bank detailed the history of Ithala's application after the entity's former board members explained what they believed were the reasons it failed to obtain a licence.

The board members, who spoke on condition of anonymity, claimed they lost out on the licence after failing to meet a condition of one of the final exemptions. They stated that this condition required them to cede R0.75 for every rand to the Reserve Bank, as contained in the final exemption granted by the bank.

One board member said: “That application was a long and very expensive process. We hired specialists who had worked on bank applications for other banks, but our application was denied without even being looked at.”

In a statement, the Reserve Bank said, “Ithala's application for authorisation to establish a bank did not sufficiently demonstrate how it would address the numerous supervisory concerns raised by the PA, with which Ithala remained non-compliant.

“Ithala failed to restructure to meet the requirements of the Banks Act for authorisation to establish a bank or a mutual bank under the Mutual Banks Act 124 of 1993.”

The Reserve Bank highlighted a string of other concerns, stating that Ithala failed to comply with all of the conditions of the Final Exemption Notice, including submitting its annual financial statements on time and being audited in accordance with the provisions of the Financial Sector Regulation Act 9 of 2017.

It noted that over the years, the PA has expressed concerns regarding the effectiveness of Ithala’s boards, particularly regarding compliance with the exemption notice and applicable legislation, as well as Ithala’s adherence to banking practices.

Issues included prolonged vacancies, challenges in attracting experienced and skilled banking executives, and difficulties in establishing a succession planning framework, which have contributed to the complexities faced by Ithala.

“Ithala has also experienced instability at the executive management level due to high rates of attrition. Moreover, there have been several instances of non-compliance associated with anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism. These issues could not be resolved without significant investment into a new information technology system,” it said.

The Reserve Bank noted that Ithala remains unlicensed and is not permitted to resume deposit-taking unless it is successfully licensed as a bank in the future.

MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Musa Zondi said he cannot speak on what happened when the application was first made as that was before his term, but he addressed that the government is busy with the work to revive Ithala and ensure that it is compliant.

Chairperson of the Economic Development Committee, Mafika Mndebele, said the committee has been briefed on the matter. “While Ithala has indicated that it made significant efforts to meet the licensing conditions, we must also appreciate that the regulatory standards applied are largely designed for commercial banks.

“We are of the view that developmental financial institutions owned by the state cannot be assessed solely on the same basis as commercial banks, as their primary mandate is not profit maximisation but advancing people-centred development, financial inclusion, and economic transformation.

“Accordingly, Ithala is undertaking the necessary reforms to address compliance gaps, and the committee remains confident that, with an appropriate appreciation of its developmental mandate, a sustainable solution will be achieved,” Mndebele said.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has confirmed that one of its councillors survived a shooting on the N2 highway near the Mtubatuba area in northern KwaZulu-Natal late on Sunday night.

The party did not make the councillor's identity public when contacted for comment on Monday, as they still needed to verify the details of the incident.

The party commented after reports emerged that an IFP councillor from the Mtubatuba Local Municipality was wounded while travelling on the N2 highway between Mtubatuba and Mfekayi in the north of the province.

The reports said the victim received medical attention following the attack. The circumstances and motive behind the shooting remain unclear at this stage, and authorities are investigating the incident.

The IFP stated, “We can confirm the incident, but there are certain things that the party still needs to verify regarding what transpired, as we are still looking to engage with the councillor involved on what happened.”

The incident comes as political parties are gearing up for the local government elections that are expected to held later this year. 

In a recent statement, the IFP said the elections “present a critical opportunity to consolidate and expand the gains made” by the party across municipalities, and to strengthen our position as a credible, people-centred alternative in local governance.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

An alleged Brazilian drug trafficker was arrested by police at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg after being found with cocaine with an estimated street value of R8.7 million.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the 26-year-old transgender suspect was apprehended upon arrival on Sunday afternoon from Brazil after police, acting on intelligence, conducted a search of the suspect’s luggage.

During the search, members discovered multiple blocks of cocaine wrapped and concealed inside the traveller's luggage.

Mathe said the arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations targeting transnational drug trafficking networks operating through South Africa’s largest port of entry.

The arrest comes after a 33-year-old woman from Kempton Park was arrested at the OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday.

The police said the Hawks' Vaal Rand Serious Organised Crime Unit investigators in conjunction with Border Police and the Local Criminal Record Centre members acted on information received and found the suspect in possession of 1.5kg of cocaine and crystal methamphetamine.

The drugs found in possession of the suspect had an estimated street value of R1.5 million, the police statement said.

The police have made a number of arrests at OR Tambo in recent months.

“Police at OR Tambo International Airport have in recent months recorded several successes in intercepting drug traffickers attempting to smuggle narcotics. The interception of drug traffickers has gone a long way in disrupting the supply of illicit drugs and strengthening the fight against organised crime,” Mathe said.

The suspects are expected to appear in court this week.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

President Cyril Ramaphosa's Freedom Day address was briefly disrupted after he and the Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, were ambushed by an intruder on stage on Monday, before security quickly intervened.

During his keynote address, Ramaphosa reaffirmed the South African government's ongoing commitment to combating corruption and organised crime, and said the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and other crime-fighting efforts have ensured that those responsible were held accountable.

Ramaphosa spoke at the Dr Rantlai Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein, Free State.

He also used his Freedom Day address to reflect on the country's 32 years of democratic dispensation, saying that since 1994, when millions voted in the country’s first democratic elections, the country has ensured that transformation becomes a reality.

Reflecting on the momentous events of 1994—when millions cast their votes in the country's first democratic elections—Ramaphosa spoke about the importance of the ongoing journey toward transformation and the realisation of democratic ideals. 

Ramaphosa further stated that the country's Constitution, widely regarded around the world as one of the most progressive, visionary, and influential constitutions ever adopted, was a powerful promise of freedom and stood as South Africa's collective shield.

"Dignity means that people must also be able to live free from the fear of violence and crime. To give greater effect to our freedom, we have dedicated greater resources and effort to tackling organised crime, gangsterism, gender-based violence, and other forms of violent crime. We are reforming and strengthening the criminal justice system," he said.

He stated that over the past 32 years South Africa witnessed monumental strides governed by the rule of law, fostered by an independent judiciary that safeguarded the rights of all citizens, and that significant advancements in access to housing, healthcare, education, water, and electricity contributed to the realisation of the Constitution's transformative agenda.

Ramaphosa indicated that his administration's commitment to universal access to education symbolises a pivotal shift, with over nine million learners now benefiting from daily nutritional meals, reinforcing the government's dedication to its youth and future generation.

"In the 32 years of our democracy, we have been governed by the rule of law with an independent judiciary that serves as a guardian of the rights of all. We have expanded access to housing, to healthcare, to education, water, and electricity on an unprecedented scale. We have transformed our education system, which was used as a weapon to perpetuate oppression, making sure that universal access to education was denied to the majority of our people," he stated.

Meanwhile, IFP spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa stated that while political freedom has been attained, many South Africans still face economic and social challenges, adding that instead of celebrating, the country should use the day to reflect and tackle pressing national issues.

The IFP observed its Freedom Day celebrations during a commemorative event in Westonaria in the Westrand on Monday.

"This is not an easy time for the country. We reflect on the difficulty of unemployment and the economy. We find ourselves in the crosshairs of instability in the Middle East, and the country is at the struggling point. What is important now is the interventions that need to arise to turn things around," he stated.

siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za

The Lions will give their players another mental break ahead of two challenging final overseas fixtures in Ireland next month.

Following a sixth straight United Rugby Championship (URC) victory at Ellis Park, head coach Ivan van Rooyen will stick to the approach he has implemented this season by allowing the squad a complete break from rugby for the next couple of days. It will help them to reset and refocus on their goals ahead of the tour.

It is a strategy that has served the Lions well during the tournament, and Van Rooyen will hope it delivers similar results as they prepare for away clashes against Leinster next weekend and Munster the following Saturday on May 16. It is a daunting tour, but one where they could secure their place in the URC play-offs by collecting valuable points.

While South African teams typically depart for overseas URC matches in the week of the game, the Lions are set to leave for Dublin on Saturday, signalling their intent to adapt to Irish conditions as early as possible. This will afford them a full week of training in Ireland, particularly if preparations only resume later this week.

Teams rarely give players extended time off at such a crucial stage of the season, but the Lions could be in Europe for up to six weeks if they do not secure a home play-off. That, along with the need to manage sore bodies, is why Van Rooyen is keen for his squad to spend meaningful time at home with their families.

“We will take off until Thursday to sort out niggles and freshen up mentally, and then come in for a Lions session where we will focus on ourselves,” Van Rooyen said, about their week.

Who’s gonna stop them? 🤩🦁@Vodacom #URC | #RaceToTheEight pic.twitter.com/XFHNearBL0

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 27, 2026

“Friday, we will preview Leinster and have a session that focuses on them and on Saturday evening, we will fly out. There is also a SA Under-23 Cup game where we can look at some players to potentially add to the travelling group.

“We can easily speak about a six-week tour when we get together, but we are only looking at this as a two-week one. It is only about Leinster and Munster, and we must prepare for them as best as possible.

“Our first goal is to crack the Top 8, and if you get there, you can allow yourself to challenge for silverware. Munster and Glasgow showed that you can win the tournament away from home. So, if you give yourself that chance to reach the play-offs, then anything is possible.”

An off-duty police constable who attempted to investigate a gunshot at a tavern in Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal, was shot and killed in the early hours of Sunday morning. 

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza said police in Richmond are investigating a murder of an off-duty police constable, who was shot while responding to gunfire inside a tavern. 

“It is alleged that further gunshots were heard inside the tavern, and it was discovered that the police constable was shot. He was rushed to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries,” Magwaza said. 

He added the suspect handed himself over to the police on Sunday.

Richmond Municipality mayor Melikhaya Ngcongo expressed outrage following the murder of Constable Njabulo Cebekhulu, aged 32. 

According to the municipality, Cebekhulu responded to a distress incident outside Shames tavern, where a suspect was reportedly discharging a firearm in a public space, endangering the lives of innocent residents. While approaching the suspect to intervene, the suspect shot the officer multiple times. 

Ngcongo expressed profound sadness over Cebekhulu’s murder, who had worked at the Richmond Police Station for four years.

“Police officers are also human beings who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, colleagues, and loved ones of Constable Cebekhulu. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Ngcongo said. 

He also extended his condolences to the Cebekhulu family for their tragic loss. 

Ngcongo visited the crime scene and the police station, where he condemned the murder. 

He also extended his appreciation to the police, the community policing forum, and community members for their decisive and coordinated response, which led to the arrest of the suspect and his accomplice.

“We commend the police and the broader security cluster for their rapid action. The arrest of the perpetrators restores confidence in the rule of law and sends a clear message that those who commit such heinous crimes will face the full might of justice,” Ngcongo said.

The suspect reportedly shot the officer and then allegedly stole the service firearm, which was subsequently discarded. When the mayor visited the scene, efforts were still ongoing to find and recover the weapon.

“When I arrived at the station, I found that they were still searching for the officer’s firearm, which the suspect is said to have discarded,” Ngcongo said.

He warned against the illegal use of firearms in public spaces, emphasising that such behaviour will not be tolerated in Richmond.

“No individual has the right to terrorise communities and endanger lives. We will not allow our town to be turned into a lawless zone. Anyone who believes they are above the law will be dealt with decisively,” Ngcongo said. 

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za 

The race for Springbok jerseys is beginning to take shape as the United Rugby Championship (URC) edges towards the business end, with several standout performers forcing their way onto head coach Rassie Erasmus’ radar.

Across the four SA franchises, a mix of established World Cup winners and exciting, emerging talent are making compelling cases for inclusion for a blockbuster 2026 international season that includes the Nations Championship and Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.

With injuries already testing depth in key positions, opportunities are opening up — and several players will look to grab them with both hands. Here, we take a look at who has put their hand up.

Talk about bursting onto the scene💥@Vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #SCAvBUL pic.twitter.com/QAmGSHQpkd

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

BULLS

On Rassie’s radar

Props: Gerhard Steenekamp, Wilco Louw, Jan-Hendrik WesselsHooker, Johan Grobbelaar
Locks: Cobus Wiese, Ruan Vermaak, Ruan Nortje
Loose forwards: Elrigh Louw, Marco van Staden, Cameron Hanekom
Scrumhalf: Embrose Papier
Flyhalf: Handré Pollard
Outbacks: Canan Moodie, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Cheswill Jooste

To Pollard or not to Pollard? That will be on Erasmus’ mind. There is no doubt that the flyhalf has a place in the Bok setup — he showed against the Scarlets this past weekend that he still has ice in his veins — but whether that is as a starter or third-choice No 10 remains to be seen.

The Boks’ lock stocks will be severely tested this season with several seasoned campaigners injured. The importance of Nortje cannot be overstated.

The Bulls’ scrum. meanwhile, is the URC’s second-best set-piece — only the Sharks have been better — and that is no surprise with the likes of Steenekamp, Louw, Wessels and Grobbelaar powering the front rows. Combined with what the Lions, Sharks and Stormers have to offer, there is no doubt that this department will be rock-solid come the Tests against England, Scotland and Wales.

Erasmus has some big choices to make amongst his loosies, but Louw’s performances have been noteworthy enough for strong consideration in July and beyond.

Who’s gonna stop them? 🤩🦁@Vodacom #URC | #RaceToTheEight pic.twitter.com/XFHNearBL0

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 27, 2026

LIONS

On Rassie’s radar
Prop: Asenathi Ntlabakanye
Utility forward: Ruan Venter
Loose forwards: Siba Mahashe, Francke Horn
Scrumhalf: Morné van den Berg
Flyhalf: Chris Smith
Centre: Henco van Wyk
Fullback: Quan Horn

Three Lions players will surely be heavily involved this season in the Bok setup: Venter, Van den Berg and Quan Horn. The latter received widespread praise for his Player of the Match performance in the Lions’ 33–17 victory over Connacht this past weekend, showcasing a varied brand of attacking and tactical rugby in the No 15 jersey.

‘Krappie’ and Venter, meanwhile, could benefit from the injuries that have rocked the lock and scrumhalf stocks this season, but that does not mean they do not deserve their call-ups.

Venter has been outstanding on the flank for the Lions and is adding much-needed versatility at lock to his game. His work-rate on attack and defence has been relentless. Van den Berg is arguably the form South African No 9 at present.

There is plenty of excitement around centre Van Wyk, and the feeling is that it is only a matter of time before the outside-centre gets a call-up. He, too, has enjoyed a stellar fortnight for the Johannesburg-based side.

With an SA ‘A’ fixture scheduled against the Barbarians in Gqeberha, a handful of Lions players deserve a look-in, including skipper Francke Horn and points machine Smith.

SHARKS

On Rassie’s radar
Props: Ox Nché, Vincent Koch
Hooker: Bongi Mbonambi
Loose forwards: Vincent Tshituka, Manu Tshituka, Phepsi Buthelezi, Siya Kolisi
Scrumhalf: Jaden Hendrikse, Grant Williams
Flyhalf: Jordan Hendrikse
Centre: André Esterhuizen
Wings: Edwill van der Merwe, Makazole Mapimpi

A plethora of loose-forwards have been putting in strong shifts for the Sharks, despite the team struggling in their quest to reach the URC play-offs this season — whether it is Bok captain Siya Kolisi or Vincent Tshituka starting, or Phepsi Buthelezi and Manu Tshituka making an impact.

There have been consistent performances from the back-rowers, and Erasmus will have taken note. Vincent Tshituka’s versatility — he can also play at lock — should make him an exciting prospect at the start of the international season. He always empties his tank, even in a losing cause.

His brother Manu and Buthelezi are also enhancing their chances, and even if they do not make the Bok squad, they are putting their hands up to be part of the second string for the SA 'A' team. That clash against Zimbabwe’s Sables will be a perfect opportunity for the Springbok coaches to give them a run and assess what they can do.

STORMERS

On Rassie’s radar
Props: Ntuthuko Mchunu, Neethling Fouché, Zachary Porthen
Hooker: André-Hugo Venter
Loose forwards: Ben-Jason Dixon, Paul de Villiers, Evan Roos
Flyhalf: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
Utility back: Damian Willemse

Based on current form, Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Willemse will likely be the starting flyhalf and fullback for the Springboks, respectively. Despite a few below-par performances, Feinberg-Mngomezulu has shown, through some defining displays, that the No 10 jersey he wore last season should be entrusted to him.

His goal-kicking was flawless against Glasgow in the latest URC match, converting eight from eight, including six tries from a range of difficult angles. It was a mature display against seasoned Scotland internationals who gave England a run for their money in the Six Nations.

Willemse should be a clear frontrunner for the fullback jersey in the absence of the injured Aphelele Fassi. He returned in the No 15 jersey and delivered a no-fuss performance against the Warriors. His security under the high ball and impetus in attack were standout traits, while his defence also helped keep Glasgow scoreless in the second half.

COMMENT

Who will wear the Springbok scrumhalf jersey when the Nations Championship arrives in just over two months?

That is the big question floating around, as a sudden half-back injury crisis could leave the South Africans a bit thin in the crucial position ahead of a blockbuster 2026 international rugby season. Right now, Lions half-back Morné van den Berg and Japan-based Faf de Klerk appear to be the clear front-runners for the role following yet another injury setback to veteran Cobus Reinach.

There was little good news on the Reinach front when he hobbled off the field after the Stormers dismantled the Glasgow Warriors in Cape Town this past weekend. He looked back to his old self — full of running and sharp decision-making — after recovering from a previous groin operation, and seemed to be hitting his stride at a crucial stage of the United Rugby Championship (URC).

However, he cut a dejected figure in the changing room after the match, sporting a knee brace, with Stormers director of rugby John Dobson admitting that “it doesn’t look good” for his URC play-off chances. Any serious cruciate ligament injury would almost certainly put him in doubt for the Nations Championship opener against England on 4 July.

Reinach is not the only concern. Sharks scrumhalf Grant Williams is also sidelined, while Jaden Hendrikse has suffered another concussion — his second in the space of a month. 

#Stormers director of rugby John Dobson on the injury to Cobus Reinach: "I don't see him coming back for a while."
It could be a big blow for their #URC chances but also for the #Springboks pic.twitter.com/dbm7I5cChZ

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) April 26, 2026

Those repeated head knocks could well affect his availability. He was stretchered off against the Bulls in early March and again against Edinburgh on Friday evening in Scotland.

The World Cup-winning scrumhalf has been brought back into the Springbok plans this year, but it would likely be wiser to stand him down for a couple of months following his latest injury.

Meanwhile, De Klerk has also earned a Bok recall. After dealing with injury earlier this season, he is back in action in Japan’s League One — a welcome development for head coach Rassie Erasmus.

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A post shared by Vodacom URC (@urcofficial_rsa)

Should Reinach, Williams and Hendrikse remain sidelined over the coming weeks, the world champions may be left with only Van den Berg and De Klerk as recognised international No 9 options. De Klerk — who recently signed for the Cheetahs — has reminded everyone of his quality with a series of commanding performances for the Canon Eagles.

With depth suddenly looking thin, Erasmus could be tempted to revisit the option of Embrose Papier, who has enjoyed an impressive season with the Bulls. While he endured a difficult outing as they edged past the Ospreys in a crucial URC clash, he has shown enough to suggest he could still offer value at international level.

For now, though, the situation may present a major opportunity for Van den Berg to gain valuable experience ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup as the Springboks begin a pivotal 2026 campaign.

The Film and Publications Board (FPB) has issued a takedown notice to Facebook after an Islamophobic post deemed to incite harm was reported by MP Imraan Subrathie.

Subrathie confirmed on Saturday that the post was removed within six hours of his escalation to the authorities, describing the content as “extremely vile, inciteful and Islamophobic”.

The FPB, in a public notice, said it had “noted with concern” a Facebook publication that “advocates hatred against the Islam religion” and constitutes incitement to cause harm. The post reportedly depicted the Prophet Muhammad in a derogatory manner.

According to the FPB, both the publication and any further sharing of the content contravene Section 18H of the Films and Publications Act, which prohibits the distribution of material that amounts to advocacy of hatred based on identifiable group characteristics and incites harm.

“The content of the post and the sharing thereof by any member of the public is in contravention of Section 18H,” the board said.

The regulator further warned that under Section 24G of the Act, those found guilty of distributing such content could face a fine of up to R150,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both.

Subrathie said he had come under pressure to publicly share the post and identify its author but declined to do so.

“Sharing the vile post would have been further dishonouring the Prophet of Islam,” he said, adding that revealing the author could “fuel anger and deepen religious intolerance in our communities”.

“My task as an elected public official is to always promote a peaceful, inclusive and cohesive society,” he said.

The FPB confirmed it had engaged Facebook’s parent company, Meta, to ensure the removal of the content and would continue monitoring digital platforms to prevent further dissemination.

It also urged the public not to share or repost the material, warning that doing so would amount to distributing prohibited content under the law.

Subrathie thanked the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, the FPB leadership, and the .za Domain Name Authority for their “expeditious” response over the long weekend.

He said the swift action sent a clear message that “social media is not a free-for-all space to spew incitement”.

The FPB has encouraged members of the public to report harmful online content through its toll-free line, WhatsApp channel, or official website.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Nearly 80 motorists were arrested for alleged bribery and corruption during a nationwide road safety operation, signalling what officials describe as a stricter enforcement approach on South Africa’s roads.

The arrests were made during a six-week campaign that began on March 20 and formed part of heightened traffic monitoring during the Easter holiday period and the Freedom Day long weekend.

According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation, the majority of the arrests, 75, were affected by the National Traffic Police, with additional arrests recorded in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo.

Officials said the motorists allegedly attempted to offer bribes to law enforcement officers to avoid prosecution for traffic violations.

“This is a sign of the new zero-tolerance approach that traffic authorities have adopted to deal with flagrant disregard for traffic regulations,” RTMC said in a statement.

Bribery and corruption in the traffic environment remains a concern, with officials linking the practice to a broader culture of non-compliance among road users. Authorities believe this contributes to the high number of crashes and fatalities recorded daily.

Over the same period, more than 6,800 motorists were arrested for various offences. Drunken driving accounted for the largest share, with 3,138 arrests, followed by 2,235 arrests linked to outstanding warrants for unpaid traffic fines.

Other offences included reckless and negligent driving, speeding, jaywalking on freeways, and the use of fraudulent documentation.

Traffic authorities stated that enforcement operations would remain intensified as the Freedom Day long weekend concludes, with continued monitoring expected ahead of the upcoming Workers' Day long weekend.

Officials added that highly visible policing and strict enforcement would remain in place to curb violations and improve road safety.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi has withdrawn South Africa’s draft Artificial Intelligence policy after an internal review confirmed it included fictitious sources.

This follows media reports that raised concerns about the accuracy of some academic references in the document, which led the department to investigate and confirm the problem.

The draft policy had been approved by Cabinet on March 25 and April 1, and was published in the Government Gazette on 10 April 2026 for public comment, with submissions open until 10 June 2026.

Statement on the integrity of the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy

Following revelations that the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy published for public comment contains various fictitious sources in its reference list, we initiated internal questions…

— SollyMalatsi (@SollyMalatsi) April 26, 2026

In a statement, Malatsi said the issue reflected a serious failure in quality control and that steps would be taken to hold those responsible to account.

"Following revelations that the Draft National Artificial Intelligence Policy published for public comment contains various fictitious sources in its reference list, we initiated internal questions, which have now confirmed that this was the case," Malatsi said.

"This failure is not a mere technical issue but has compromised the integrity and credibility of the draft policy. As such, I am withdrawing the Draft National Artificial intelligence Policy".

He added that "the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies did not deliver on the standard that is acceptable for an institution entrusted with the role to lead South Africa‘s digital policy environment".

"The most plausible explanation is that AI-generated citations were included without proper verification. This should not have happened. In fact, this unacceptable lapse proves why vigilant human oversight over the use of artificial intelligence is critical," he added.

"It’s a lesson we take with humility. I want to reassure the country that we are treating this matter with the gravity it deserves. There will be consequence management for those responsible for drafting and quality assurance".

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mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za

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The Stormers coaches showed real steely resolve in selecting young players to front up against the Glasgow Warriors in a must-win United Rugby Championship (URC) clash this past weekend.

And they are not about to retreat into their shells when the Cape side heads into the play-offs next month. They will continue to utilise their younger generation, not only to help them win in the URC but also to build towards their Project 2029 goal.

In what was a crucial game that the Stormers won 48-12 to go top of the URC log, scrumhalf Imad Khan (22) and 18-year-old centre Markus Muller came on against the Warriors and maintained the standard set by veterans Cobus Reinach and Dan du Plessis.

Khan controlled the game brilliantly during a period when Glasgow looked to fight back after Reinach left the field with a serious injury. His sharp play behind the breakdown and eagerness on defence stood out.

He will be crucial over the next couple of weeks to the Stormers’ cause after Reinach injured his knee. The Springbok stalwart is set to be out for a significant time and is set to miss the knockouts.

While Muller did not have many opportunities on attack, he impressed with his tackling against seasoned Scottish internationals such as Huw Jones and Sione Tuipulotu. The Stormers would’ve loved to see more of him on the attack; the promise he showed bodes well for the future.

Fetcher Paul de Villiers (23) started ahead of Deon Fourie and played an important role at the breakdown. Fourie stood himself down after the coaches opted to use him as a back-up hooker, allowing JJ Kotze to take the bench spot in the No 16 jersey.

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said they want to continue growing their project, and that it will only succeed if they back the talent coming through.

The first of many. #inittogether pic.twitter.com/bQOlEs8tN7

— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) April 25, 2026

“It’s so important for us to show that there is this pathway from our school system through. So it’s a good feel-good story,” he said on Muller’s debut.

“We must speak to Project 2029. I just really, really want people to know what we’re trying to do here, which is show this region: keep our players here, and then we have to give them the opportunities.

“That noise (when Muller took the field) ... that makes me proud of the crowd because that shows they're informed and they're enthusiastic and it was brilliant, wasn't it?

"He didn’t have much ball in hand, but his defence was really, really good. He stayed alive; his double-D (double tackles) was good. He’s the happiest kid in the world and that is important for our Project 2029."

The March and March movement is set to descend on the Union Buildings in Pretoria today and Hillbrow, Johannesburg on Tuesday, April 28, with leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma heading mass demonstrations calling for the removal of undocumented foreign nationals.

The action follows a series of high-profile "clean-up campaigns" and protests in the Durban CBD and South Beach areas over the past year and marks a significant expansion of the movement’s footprint into South Africa’s economic heartland.

Gauteng law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert as the group, supported by various civic organisations, continues to demand stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the prioritisation of South African citizens in the informal economy.

Speaking ahead of today's proceedings, Ngobese-Zuma issued a scathing challenge to the international community and foreign nationals residing in South Africa, accusing them of "assuming the position of being victims" while ignoring the frustrations of locals.

"No matter how hard we try to explain ourselves—that there's no xenophobia here, we are tired—they just start creating stories about people who are being hit, who are being killed," Ngobese-Zuma said.

She dismissed claims of xenophobic violence as "lying," questioning why those who label South Africa as xenophobic choose to remain in the country.

"If South Africa is xenophobic, why are you angry then that South Africans are saying go home? This is your opportunity to leave the xenophobic country. You don't have to put up with all the pain and suffering that you claim you're going through."

The movement’s leader also pointed to the popular television show Sizok’thola as evidence of what she claims is a disproportionate involvement of foreign nationals in criminal activities, specifically drug trafficking.

Ngobese-Zuma further criticised the lack of political activism by immigrants in their home countries compared to their resistance to South African immigration policies.

"You fail to fight in your own country for your rights, with your own government... but you are here in South Africa fighting South Africans because they no longer want you here. Where do you get this energy?"

She maintained that South Africans are "the authority" in their own land and vowed that the movement would not be deterred by "hiding behind the banner of xenophobia."

"Whether you like it or whether you hate it, South Africans are not going to move from the call of removing illegal immigrants. We are not going to allow you to break our laws anymore."

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Voters are fed up with corruption, crime, unemployment, poor service delivery and are demanding enforced accountability, evidenced by the removal of incompetent leaders. 

They say that the current political leaders in both local and national spheres lack the will to serve the public’s interests and improve service delivery.

Among the concerns raised by voters is that some ward councillors disappear from communities once elected to power, making it difficult for the public to access them.

Research conducted by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) in 2023, revealed that deep discontent with democratic and leadership performance and harsh views of core political institutions, are significant factors that keep voters away.

The issue of discontent is again in the public discourse with political parties around the country intensifying their campaigns ahead of the 2026/2027 Local Government Elections. The country has, over the years, faced a steady decline in voter turnout in local government elections, with previous turnout (2021) dipping an all-time low of 45.86%. 

Sèmanthe Combrink, a resident of Durban North, said there is deep frustration and a growing loss of respect for the government due to ongoing corruption and the failure to meet basic needs. 

Combrink said that while communities are struggling with basic service delivery, unemployment, and daily survival, political leaders continue to engage in debates that do not translate into meaningful change on the ground.

“The problems we face are not because solutions don’t exist — they are the result of failed leadership and a system that has been weakened by corruption. When those entrusted with power act in their own interests instead of serving the people, even the best systems collapse. What we are seeing is not just inefficiency, but a serious lack of accountability and consequence for wrongdoing,” she said.

Combrink also called for accountability to be enforced with real consequences, where leaders who fail to deliver or are implicated in corruption are removed from power, not protected. 

“There should be stronger mechanisms for communities to hold leaders directly accountable, including the ability to recall them. Transparency should not be optional. It must be mandatory, with clear reporting and visible outcomes,” she said.

Samuel Madire, a resident of Tshwane, said communities still struggle with basic service delivery, such as water and electricity.

“Our political parties are not serving the public’s interests. Our issues are infrastructure development, quality education, job creation, and improved overall service delivery. 

He said the never-ending, unfulfilled promises by politicians to the voters appear as if they (politicians) do not know what they are doing. 

“As South Africans, we suffer from an allergy to politicians’ lies. We all know that councillors only come to us when they need our votes. I wish we could have multiple Nelson Mandelas. He was always speaking in the true interest of the public. However, politicians nowadays just want to occupy political office, and when we need services, they are nowhere to be found,” Madire said.

He highlighted the need to implement lifestyle audits for everyone in public office or anyone who has access to the public purse. 

“You cannot earn R50 and then live a lifestyle of R200. Where is the other money coming from? The tender system needs to be transformed or eliminated because it is being misused by self-serving individuals to the detriment of the public,” Madire said. 

Sharon Olivier, a resident of Westbury in Johannesburg, said over the last decade, crime has increased, from daily robberies, hijackings, shootings of people, drug abuse, and unemployment.

"Everything is just getting worse by the day."

She said when she looks back to last year (2025), when there was a request from Westbury community members for the army to come in and assist with the gangsterism, drug lords, etc, this is done in the belief that “the justice system is failing us.”

“A lot of people have unanswered questions about certain cases within our area. I stay in Westbury, and we have a lot of social ills in our community, from unemployment to gangsterism to drugs and alcohol. So for us, it feels like we have a government that doesn’t care about the marginalised area or the marginalised race in our country. They are more worried about other people instead. We try to hold them (the government) accountable, but we are not getting any joy from all of this,” Sharon said.

Ayesha Omarjee, a Durban resident, said the current political discourse is not representative of the current and future generations.

“As a lecturer at a university, I can understand the hardships of the students, who struggle to attend lectures because of no funding available to them, and their parents also don’t have money either. Some students sleep in libraries because they cannot afford to go home. This is extremely disheartening, and I think we have lost faith in these so-called political leaders,” Omarjee said. 

She stated that there needs to be some form of accountability within the country’s political formations. 

“Since I joined the workforce, I want to see where my tax money is going, especially when we hear allegations coming out of the Madlanga Commission, where billions are being stolen. We are hard-working citizens who ensure we put food on the table and bring our kids up in a safe and comfortable environment. Yet, we have politicians who are making us these promises, that we see nothing of,” Omarjee said.

"We need leaders who are stepping up to ensure that those found guilty face the full might of the law and not let go."

She said many of her colleagues and friends have emigrated, describing it as a brain drain because those individuals are educated, but their knowledge is now being used to benefit other countries instead of helping make a better South Africa.

Khazamula Chauke, a resident of Youth View Informal Settlement in Mamelodi (Tshwane) since 2016, said he will not vote in the upcoming local government elections, because the government is not taking people of lower status seriously and their concerns are ignored.

Chauke said his disappointment with the government started during the 2019 floods and worsened after the 2022 floods.

“We were promised relocation from Youth View Informal Settlement to a safer place, but this did not happen. In 2022, we were moved to a community hall. We stayed there for a year and a half, until we realised that nothing was going to happen; it is better that we go back to our shacks,” he said.

He added that they have not stopped engaging authorities, but it has all been in vain.

“I began voting in 1994, but after the 2019 and 2022 incidents, I chose to never vote again. Voting for me is not important anymore. We have tried everything in our power to get help from the politicians, but nothing has happened. From the time until today, we have been engaging with the authorities. They keep on promising, but nothing comes up,” Chauke said.

He added that he has come to realise that “this thing of voting doesn’t assist lower people like myself; it only works for those who are in higher positions".

Chauke said that the government must 'take our people seriously' and that councillors must help communities by listening, taking grievances to the higher-ups in the municipality, and reporting back.

“The only thing that would make me reconsider voting is if we are relocated to a place where there is service delivery, such as water and sanitation, and schools for our kids. 

gcwalisile.khanyile@inl.co.za

The suspected attacker in a shooting that plunged a press gala attended by US President Donald Trump into chaos has been identified by news media as a 31-year-old mechanical engineer from California.

Hours after gunshots rang outside the ballroom where the glitzy White House Correspondents' Association dinner was being held on Saturday, Trump shared a photo of the suspect handcuffed and face down on the carpeted floor.

The man with brown hair and a moustache was identified by multiple US news outlets, citing law enforcement sources, as Cole Tomas Allen, 31, from Torrance, California.

US officials have not yet publicly confirmed the suspect's identity.

A LinkedIn profile with the name "Cole Allen" showed a picture of a man which appeared to match the photo shared by Trump.

On the social media profile, Allen said he was an engineer with a passion for game development, based in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area.

"Mechanical engineer and computer scientist by degree, independent game developer by experience, teacher by birth," according to his profile, which noted that he had an undergraduate degree from the California Institute of Technology.

A person named Cole T. Allen from Torrance graduated from Caltech in 2017 with a mechanical engineering degree, according to the school's commencement ceremony program.

He was part of the Caltech Christian Fellowship and Nerf Club, according to his profile.

Last year, Allen uploaded a picture wearing a graduation gown and cap, saying he was "done" with his computer science master's degree from California State University Dominguez Hills.

The name Cole Tomas Allen appeared in that university's 2025 commencement program.

Allen also posted about an indie game he developed called "Bohrdom," described as a "skill-based, non-violent" fighting game "derived from a chemistry model that is itself loosely based on reality."

On his LinkedIn, he said he was also a part-time teacher at a tutoring company called C2 Education.

The test-prep firm named Allen as "teacher of the month" in an Instagram post dated December 2024.

In that post, a man with brown hair and a half-smile is pictured wearing a navy blue quarter-zip sweater, hands folded behind his back.

Suburban residence

Trump told reporters that the suspect, who was detained at the scene, was a California resident and law enforcement agents were probing his home.

The suspect is due to be arraigned in court on Monday on firearm and assault charges, officials said.

Authorities said he was armed with a shotgun, a handgun and multiple knives, and was not known to Washington's Metropolitan Police Department.

"My impression is he was a lone wolf," Trump said, adding that the suspect's motivation was not yet clear but he believed the gunman was "sick."

FBI tactical agents were seen entering a gabled two-story residence in Torrance associated with the suspect on Saturday evening, according to an AFP photographer.

The brown house in the southwestern Los Angeles suburb was cordoned off, glowing red and blue under flashing police lights.

A neighbor told CNN that he saw Allen at the property "a couple of days ago."

According to NBC News, Allen attended the Pacific Lutheran High School in the LA suburbs and was a member of the volleyball team.

A former teammate described him as "borderline genius" and "super stable."

"Other people study hard. He didn't have to study. It would just come to him. He was really, really smart," the ex-teammate told NBC.

He was also described as a "gentle person".

Allen was registered to vote with no party preference, the Los Angeles Times reported.

According to Federal Election Commission records seen by AFP, a person named Cole Allen, identified as a teacher at C2 Education from Torrance, donated $25 to a group raising funds for Kamala Harris's presidential campaign.

AFP

There is a different feeling in the Lions’ camp this season ahead of two defining final United Rugby Championship (URC) round-robin matches in Ireland.

In third place on the log, they are not relying on other results going their way when the URC resumes in two weeks. They head to Leinster (9 May) and Munster (16 May) with a clear plan of what they must do to secure a first-ever URC play-off spot.

There will be no calculations about what needs to happen for them to make history, but they know two points should effectively seal their fate.

After defeating Connacht 33-21 in their final home match at Ellis Park, the Lions will take a short break ahead of their Irish mission, knowing their fate is in their own hands.

“Two seasons ago, when we thought we had secured a Top 8 spot, we slipped up in crucial games at home,” head coach Ivan van Rooyen said.

“We lost the last couple of matches and didn’t make it. However, I feel there has been plenty of growth since then. This time around, the feeling is a bit different, looking at where we are in our campaign and where we are heading.

“There is a sense of relief, yes, but we are not in the play-offs just yet.”

Kids Round delivered... 2️⃣ rounds left ✨@Vodacom #URC | #KidsRound pic.twitter.com/znzUnoH2qF

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 26, 2026

According to Van Rooyen, there has been significant growth in the squad since those shortcomings, and even this season, when things did not go their way early on. The Lions struggled at the start of the campaign but pulled things together with some impressive performances both overseas and at home.

That resilience over the past couple of months will give the team plenty of confidence heading into the final two clashes.

“Six months ago, we were spiralling, and you guys (the media) asked me how we were going to regain control. In that regard, we’ve grown quite a lot. Our decision-making is better. Our ability to transfer pressure onto our opponents has improved.

“Some elements of our game are developing consistently, and over the last three years, it just hasn’t been enough. But this year is different.”

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef condemned the ugly scenes that took place during the Soweto derby's warm-up, but revealed he did not use the incident to motivate his players following an impressive display.

Chiefs drew 1-1 with Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon in their reverse Betway Premiership clash.

Chiefs produced an improved performance, when compared to the disappointing 3-0 defeat they suffered in the first fixture in February. This came after a brawl during the warm-up involving Chiefs players and an official, who clashed with Pirates security personnel, resulting in the Amakhosi temporarily leaving the pitch before returning.

Although it was not clear who instigated the fight, it appeared to involve Pirates personnel, who allegedly tried to forcibly stop a Chiefs official from carrying out a ‘ritual’ during the warm-up.

Given the stakes surrounding the match, with family and friends watching — including those of Ben Youssef — the Amakhosi mentor was visibly disappointed with the pre-match events, revealing that he even received calls from his loved ones enquiring about his safety.

With the clash having a huge impact on Pirates' title race and Chiefs' Top 3 aspirations, Ben Youssef said such incidents were not the way to pursue success.

“I think what happened before the game is something that we can’t accept,” Ben Youssef said, in the post-match press conference.

“We are sending a bad image of our football. People are waiting to watch football, but what we saw before the game is unacceptable.

“I think this kind of situation is a shame. If you want to win the league, you can’t do it like that. You need to do it cleanly.”

Despite the incident, Ben Youssef revealed that the brawl did not affect the team's readiness to compete, as they were already prepared to fight for maximum points.

“We didn’t use that,” Ben Youssef said. “For this kind of game, you don’t have to motivate the players; if you are not motivated for the derby, then what are you doing in football?

“We had to keep them calm and focused on the game. They already had motivation internally. Pre-match, we did say that we had a clean bill of health – all the players were fit and ready to play to win, not to draw.”

Kaizer Chiefs’ co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef revealed the club are only focused on themselves, stating they don’t care which team wins the Betway Premiership title this season.

Chiefs drew 1-1 with Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby on Sunday, remaining third on the log with 48 points. The point earned is precious and could come in handy in their Top 3 ambitions. The Glamour Boys remain five points clear of the fourth-placed AmaZulu, as they chase the CAF Confederation Cup qualifying spot.

For Pirates, however, the two dropped points could be catastrophic in their title aspirations, as they failed to create more breathing space above Mamelodi Sundowns, who still have a game in hand, despite a 0-0 draw against Richards Bay — also on Sunday.

The Sea Robbers remain one point clear of the Brazilians, although the latter still hold the advantage heading into the final stretch of the season.

Chiefs are also scheduled to face Sundowns in a league clash at Loftus Versfeld in Hatfield in early May, which raises the possibility of playing a further role in the championship race. Speaking during the post-match press conference at FNB Stadium, Ben Youssef responded to the outside noise that Chiefs could play a huge role in who lifts the Premiership this season.

“Trust me, we are only thinking about ourselves, performance and the results,” Ben Youssef said.

"We don’t care who wins the league, it’s their problem – not ours. We want to win every game, because like I said, we are taking each game as a cup game.”

He concluded: “Importantly, we want to collect maximum points, and then we’ll see where we finish at the end of the season.”

The Amakhosi’s next match will be away to Siwelele in Bloemfontein on Wednesday (7.30pm kick-off). It is a game they will want to win to further consolidate their third-place standing.

COMMENT

The doubt around Brandon Petersen’s qualities must have been cleared up by now. He is the cornerstone of this Kaizer Chiefs team and deserves a spot in Bafana Bafana’s Fifa World Cup 2026 goalkeeping department.

Petersen was the standout performer when Chiefs drew 1-1 with arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the second Betway Premiership Soweto derby of the season at a sold-out FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Granted, he conceded Kamogelo’s Sebelebele's equaliser, which cancelled Pule Mmodi’s goal late in the game, but if it wasn’t for his exploits in goal, Chiefs would have arguably lost the derby.

It is not that Pirates were the dominant team on the day; far from it. They just happened to have clear-cut opportunities which Petersen proved equal to, salvaging a precious point for his team in their top 3 ambitions. Apart from his saves, Petersen’s presence and command of his defence brought comfort to the team, carrying out the captain’s role to perfection.

Chiefs have longed for such a figure in goal — someone who leads with aplomb. Since the days of peak Itumeleng Khune, they have lacked a goalkeeper who truly understands what it means to don the No 1 jersey for the club.

Petersen has come far to be where he is; arriving as an understudy to Khune and Daniel Akpeyi, he has since matured, and his leadership is evident in how he gets the best out of his teammates.

Chiefs started the game under a cloud of uncertainty. They momentarily abandoned their warm-up, being forced to return to the dressing room after a brawl between a club official and Pirates’ security heavily disrupted their preparations. Upon returning to the pitch, their focus must have been slightly disturbed, suggesting Pirates might walk over them, in a similar vein to the Bucs' 3-0 win in February.

But it wasn’t to be — largely due to Petersen.

The Chiefs No 1 kept his team in the game, his pre-match confidence and hard work clearly working in his favour. His heroics didn’t only sweeten the result but they must have also made Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos take further notice.

Broos bemoaned in the last Fifa window that had Petersen not been injured, he would have called him up. Sunday’s performance was certainly another reason why the Bafana mentor should include him in the national team, especially with the World Cup in June approaching. He didn’t only inspire Chiefs to a draw but also outshone his counterpart, Sipho Chaine.

The Pirates No 1 was dropped from the Bafana squad in the last window, putting his World Cup selection in jeopardy. While Chaine has matched a club record with 17 clean sheets this season, it remains to be seen if he has improved on the specific areas Broos highlighted.

On the other hand, ‘Beezer’ is ticking all the right boxes and endearingly himself to the Amakhosi faithful. He deserves to be rewarded with a plane ticket Mexico and the US for the World Cup.

The battle for a place in the United Rugby Championship (URC) play-offs will go down to the wire over the final two rounds, but the Stormers are already assured of their place in the knockouts.

Now, it’s over to the Lions and Bulls to ensure they join their fellow South African side, after all three teams recorded excellent victories to remain in the hunt for home fixtures in the quarter-finals.

Only nine teams remain in the play-off race, and with some sides set to face one another in the closing rounds, the contest for home play-off spots is set to go right down to the wire.

We take a look at the state of play for the SA sides ahead of the Champions Cup break.

Stormers (1st, Points 56, Played 16, Won 12, Lost 4, Points Difference 166)

They hold their ambitions in their own hands. With two games remaining against Ulster (8 May) and Cardiff (15 May), they must travel overseas if they are to retain top spot on the URC log. Following a commanding victory over the Glasgow Warriors to claim first place, the Stormers have the momentum to stay in the driving seat.

Eight points from these two matches should be enough to secure a Top 2 finish, but they will be targeting the full 10 points against two sides fighting to remain in the play-off positions. It will be anything but straightforward.

The loss of scrum-half Cobus Reinach to injury could also have a significant impact on how they approach their final two matches.

#Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson believes they are in the right mind frame to get full points from their final 2 #URC league matches pic.twitter.com/etSD1LIhXI

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) April 26, 2026

Lions (3rd, Pts 53, P16, W10, D1, L5, PD 90)

They are also heading overseas for tricky clashes against Leinster (9 May) and Ulster (16 May), making a Top 3 finish far from guaranteed. It is equally difficult to pinpoint which fixture they should target for at least one victory to secure a historic quarter-final berth.

After a run of six wins, they will need to reset and prepare mentally for what awaits in Ireland against the defending champions and a former URC winner. Their home victories will have boosted confidence, but the Lions must raise their performance levels to cope with the Irish conditions.

It is arguably the toughest assignment of the SA teams’ run-in, but they have the personnel to claim at least one victory. Having brought themselves into contention, two more wins would guarantee a home play-off in Johannesburg.

Kids Round delivered... 2️⃣ rounds left ✨@Vodacom #URC | #KidsRound pic.twitter.com/znzUnoH2qF

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 26, 2026

Bulls (7th, Pts 49, P16, W10, L6, PD 99)

Following a successful tour in which they collected nine points from challenging fixtures, the Bulls return to Loftus Versfeld to conclude their campaign against Zebre Parma (9 May) and Benetton (16 May). The latter fixture is likely to prove the sterner test, particularly after Benetton’s victory over Leinster this past weekend.

However, the Bulls will be confident of collecting a full 10 points against the Italian sides, given their respective positions on the log. Zebre remain rooted to the bottom, while Benetton have managed only six wins from 16 matches. It presents a favourable opportunity for the Pretoria side to push for a home quarter-final.

They will hope results elsewhere fall in their favour, while also sharpening their own performances to ensure maximum returns. Despite a few injury concerns, they should have enough quality to overcome their visitors once the URC resumes.

Talk about bursting onto the scene💥@Vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #SCAvBUL pic.twitter.com/QAmGSHQpkd

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

Sharks (10th, Pts 36, P16, W6, D1, L9, PD -35)

They endured a disappointing end to their overseas tour and are now out of contention for the play-offs. As a result, their final two home fixtures will be about building momentum and potentially giving younger players an extended run ahead of the new season.

A few have already made a strong impression, and it will benefit head coach JP Pietersen to offer them further opportunities, particularly in Durban. They face Benetton (9 May) and could do the Bulls a favour by softening up the Italian side. Their final match, against Zebre (16 May), offers a chance to end the season on a high at the Shark Tank.

Despite what people say about them, the Stormers know they have refreshed themselves and shown the doubters that they are a proper rugby team after thrashing the Glasgow Warriors 48-12 in Cape Town.

Now that they are back at the top of the United Rugby Championship (URC), they want to head overseas to claim 10 points from their final two league matches to seal the No 1 spot on the points table.

According to John Dobson, director of rugby, to stay ahead of the chasing pack they need five points from their next encounter against Ulster at Kingspan Stadium. Benetton also did the Stormers a favour by beating Leinster on Saturday, so there is a bit of breathing room at the top.

“Last week’s defeat was really expensive in the sense that we didn’t get one or two points from it, so now we must get full points at Kingspan,” Dobson said.

“On the 4G pitches, there tend to be tries because of the speed of the game. The change in mindset of the team is amazing, and we are going for the points. Glasgow is a very good team, and we showed what we can do.”

Dobson also had a few words for people who came for his team following last weekend’s defeat. He admitted that they missed an opportunity for victory, but the attacks on his players were unwarranted.

#Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson believes they are in the right mind frame to get full points from their final 2 #URC league matches pic.twitter.com/etSD1LIhXI

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) April 26, 2026

“We got a lot of criticism for the Connacht performance, but to understand what this team was going through, or what Chippie meant to us and to this organisation … to expect those guys to perform normally. Listen, we messed it up.

“To read things like ‘the Stormers slide continues’. We went to Toulon, who are a really good team, and we lost through a decision that should not have taken place, through their own admission. Our manager died, and we played poorly under the circumstances.

“It’s just a lack of humanity in my mind, the pressure they were under. Netwerk24 published two letters this week about how I should step down. I don’t understand it. I don’t mind when it happens to me, but what I don’t understand is the players getting hammered like that. It is not humane, and I did not appreciate it.

“Chippie was such an integral part of our organisation, and to get slayed for that performance. I really feel for the players.”

#Stormers director of rugby John Dobson on the injury to Cobus Reinach: "I don't see him coming back for a while."
It could be a big blow for their #URC chances but also for the #Springboks pic.twitter.com/dbm7I5cChZ

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) April 26, 2026

While the URC will take a week’s break for the Champions Cup semi-finals taking place this coming weekend, the Stormers won’t be resting on their laurels. They will get a few days off, but it’s back to the training ground over the next week as they prepare for what awaits in Ireland and Cardiff.

Captain Ruhan Nel said they are at the sharp end of the competition and won’t be skipping any training days, especially with two Friday matches overseas.

“If you lie at home for a week, it won’t do you well. It will be a very short week when we restart, including that travel day, so we will be limited when we get to Ireland. We will be on the field for three days this week.

“Being on top of the log, and if that does not motivate you to secure a home quarter-final, then not much else will. There is a good energy in the squad and we are excited to build on it.”

Chaos erupted during the Soweto derby warm-up on Sunday afternoone, as a fight broke out between Kaizer Chiefs officials and Orlando Pirates security personnel, resulting in tensions boiling over to the players. Amakhosi momentarily abandoned their preparations, returning to the dressing room.

The ugly scenes at the Betway Premiership encounter, which lasted for close to five minutes, seemed to have continued in the tunnel, with police working hard to keep the two sides apart. Chiefs’ decision to abandon the warm-up was supported by their bosses, with sporting director Kaizer Motaung Junior and football manager Bobby Motaung pitch-side when the fight broke out.

With Pirates being the home team for this clash, they had most of the control. As such, it is alleged that they did not agree with whatever the Chiefs official was doing in his pre-match ritual.

Chiefs eventually returned to the pitch to continue their warm-up. With kick-off delayed by 45 minutes — from the initial 3pm kick-off — due to traffic around the stadium, they had some time to catch up. 

The rise in tensions was expected heading into the match, given the high stakes during this end-of-season run-in. Aside from the country’s bragging rights, Pirates are chasing the title, having arrived top of the standings with 58 points — one ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand, and are scheduled to play Richards Bay later on Sunday.

Given all that, the Sea Robbers know any slip-up on the day could prove costly.

Chiefs, meanwhile, are eyeing a Top 3e finish. They currently occupy third spot with 47 points, five ahead of AmaZulu, who have played one game more. While there was a lot at stake, the battle was expected to be on the field, with players fighting tooth and nail for the three points.

With the Soweto Derby starting under a cloud of pre-match tension, the focus now shifts to whether the action on the pitch can outshine the drama off it.

The Bulls completed a successful final overseas United Rugby Championship (URC) tour on Saturday evening with a hard-fought 23–21 victory over the Scarlets, returning to South Africa in a strong position to secure a play-off spot.

With two home games remaining at Loftus Versfeld and the potential to collect 10 points from these clashes, they could still claim a home quarter-final if other results go their way.

However, the nine points earned on the road lifted them from eighth to seventh on the log, creating some breathing room between them and ninth-placed Connacht, who are still pushing for a Top 8 finish.

After four weeks abroad, head coach Johan Ackermann and his troops are looking forward to time back home, though he admitted that the pull of home comforts nearly came back to bite them against the Scarlets. They showed quality in patches but allowed the Welsh side to dictate much of the play.

If not for the reliable boot of flyhalf Handré Pollard and the forwards’ dominance at set-piece, the result might have gone the other way. Pollard contributed 18 points, including a try, and slotted a couple of crucial penalties to seal the win.

“The boys showed a lot of character. It was a tough four weeks on tour,” Ackermann said after the match.

“Although we addressed being away from your family, especially for the guys who have just got married or had a newborn, it is still a mental challenge knowing you are two days away from seeing them. I think you could see a bit of that in our performance. We were accurate, but not quite accurate enough.

Talk about bursting onto the scene💥@Vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #SCAvBUL pic.twitter.com/QAmGSHQpkd

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

“The positive is that even though we were down to 13 players at one stage (after two yellow cards), we showed heart and fight. We made some good decisions then. Tactically, we played well and slowed the game down. That is a big positive. But we were our own worst enemy when we lacked accuracy.

“But we can take a lot of confidence from this performance, especially when you grind out results in games you didn’t play well in.”

A break now awaits the Pretoria side before they return to action with an Italian job to finish at Loftus Versfeld in May. They face Zebre Parma (9 May) and Benetton (16 May), and a full haul of points from both fixtures could put them in a strong position heading into the knockouts.

“We owed ourselves that performance.”

That was the immediate reaction of Stormers captain Ruhan Nel after a convincing six-try, 48-12 United Rugby Championship (URC) thumping of the Glasgow Warriors in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon.

It was a massive response following an emotional loss to Connacht last weekend and the criticism the team received in its wake. With the victory, they claimed top spot on the URC log, booting Glasgow down to second place.

According to Nel, the victory will stand them in good stead as they head on tour for their final two games, looking to seal another home quarter-final. In the last two editions of the URC, they were forced to travel to Scotstoun Stadium and were knocked out by the Warriors at that stage.

“There was an internal drive to make each other proud, and this win will put more energy into our tanks,” Nel said.

“We were under pressure; we felt the external scrutiny and the public wanting a response. There was a feeling that we hadn’t performed to our potential following the death of uncle Chippie (Solomon). We did not want to disappoint our fans. To have won in that manner makes for a very happy changing room.”

Director of Rugby John Dobson said the squad had endured a horrendous ten days following the death of Solomon. However, after the funeral on Tuesday, the team switched into ‘game mode’ and found the freedom to prepare effectively.

Perfect assist, calm finish 🎨⚡️@vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #STOvGL pic.twitter.com/dYOAC9jidk

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

“To put last week into context and how emotional it was — often in life, you go through a crisis and don’t realise how miserable it is while you’re in it. Now we have a bit of breathing space,” Dobson said.

“Connacht is a good team, but we could’ve closed that game out. It was just a horrendous ten days. However, I feel we closed the game out well against Glasgow.

“We played directly; I think we had to. It is play-off rugby. Last week, in our desperation, we played poor-quality ball. We were a bit more conservative in putting pressure on Glasgow, and we knew we could do it with our set piece. That was effective.”

The Stormers are set to be without Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach for their final two United Rugby Championship (URC) round-robin matches and potentially the rest of the season.

Reinach (36) injured his knee in the 48–12 thrashing of the Glasgow Warriors on Saturday afternoon, and director of rugby John Dobson painted a grim picture of his injury after the clash.

While the Stormers returned to the top of the URC standings following the bonus-point victory, Reinach’s injury is a significant setback. He could face a spell of up to 11 weeks on the sidelines if it is a medial cruciate ligament (MCL) injury. However, if he has injured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the recovery could be significantly longer.

Dobson said afterwards he hopes it is a medial injury and not Reinach’s ACL, but he has made peace with the fact that they will not have the nippy scrum-half for their tour matches.

Reinach was seen hobbling off the field after he was trapped in a ruck on the Warriors’ tryline and was in a knee brace after the match as the Stormers celebrated a deserved victory.

“I don’t think so,” Dobson said when asked if Reinach is okay.

“He is in a brace but hasn’t been scanned yet. But I don’t see him coming back for a while. That is the truth. I just hope it’s not that bad for the Springboks. It’s going to put us under a bit of pressure. I thought Cobus played his best game in a while today (Saturday).

#Stormers director of rugby John Dobson on the injury to Cobus Reinach: "I don't see him coming back for a while."
It could be a big blow for their #URC chances but also for the #Springboks pic.twitter.com/dbm7I5cChZ

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) April 26, 2026

“After the hernia operation, he looked like (making) a comeback, so he’s pretty upset.”

The Stormers will have Stefan Ungerer, Imad Khan, Dewaldt Duvenage and Asad Moos available, with the responsibility likely to fall on Khan and Ungerer. Duvenage’s experience overseas could push the Cape side in his direction.

However, the young Khan played a good game on Saturday when he replaced Reinach, and the Stormers must back him to gain more experience in high-stakes matches ahead of the URC play-offs.

For South African writer, artist, educator and mother Farhana Yunnus, the Covid-19 lockdown didn't just bring the world to a standstill; it created a vast, painful silence between two cities.

While she remained in Cape Town, her son, Waheed Yunnus, was in Durban.

In that isolation, faced with the fragility of life and the physical distance from her child, Farhana picked up her pen. 

What began as a way to reach across the map became "Dear Waheed", a collection of 30 letters written over the course of Ramadaan.

It is a book born of a mother’s need to preserve her love, but it has evolved into a universal manual for healing.

Reaching across the divide

The motivation to write wasn't sparked by a single event, but by the cumulative weight of quiet, unsettling moments.

"I remember thinking how easily words can be left unsaid… how quickly time can shift without warning. That was the nudge," said Yunnus during an interview with "Independent Media Lifestyle". 

"I began writing because I needed a way to feel close to my child, despite the distance. The letters became my way of reaching across cities, of holding onto him at a time when I physically could not."

Writing during Ramadaan added a layer of spiritual stillness to the process. The sacred month invited a deeper introspection, turning her letters into an anchor of faith amidst global panic.

While her initial goal was simply to connect with her son, Farhana soon discovered a surprising byproduct: she was beginning to heal herself.

By confronting her own fears on the page, she found a quiet space to be honest without the need to be strong. 

"They also became something deeper, a way to process fear, to anchor myself in faith and to preserve love in the middle of so much uncertainty."

Faith in the stillness

The pandemic stripped away the usual routines that many people associate with resilience. For Farhana, this forced stillness refined her understanding of faith.

"What surprised me was how much quieter faith had become. It was not always in words or certainty; it was in small, almost imperceptible acts of surrender. In choosing to trust without needing to understand. In sitting with discomfort and not rushing to escape it.

"Resilience, too, took on a different shape. It was not about holding everything together; it was about allowing things to fall apart without losing myself in the process. It became softer, more internal, less about endurance and more about honesty.

"That stillness did not weaken those themes for me; it refined them. It showed me that both faith and resilience are not fixed states, but living, evolving experiences, ones that become most real when everything else is stripped away," Farhana shared. 

A legacy of "becoming"

Though the book is a personal correspondence, its themes of longing and resilience are universal. Yunnus chose the structure of thirty letters to mirror the rhythm of Ramadaan, suggesting that growth happens in gentle, daily increments rather than all at once.

More importantly, she chose not to write as an all-knowing authority. 

"Perfection is not something Waheed will ever live inside of, and I did not want my words to become something he feels he has to measure himself against and inevitably fall short of. I wrote to my child as I am: flawed, learning and sometimes uncertain.

"Not because I lacked answers, but because I understand that life is not lived through perfectly packaged wisdom.

"It is lived through moments of doubt, mistakes, repair and return. If I had only given Waheed 'perfect' advice, I would have given him something distant, something polished, but not something he could truly recognise himself in.

"Vulnerability, to me, is a form of honesty. It tells my child: you are allowed to be human. You are allowed to struggle; you are allowed to question and to get it wrong, but still find your way back. And more than that, it shows Waheed that strength is not the absence of fragility, but the courage to hold both at once."

Yunnus said she wanted her son to inherit "something real".

"Not a manual for perfection, but a language for navigating life as it is. Because one day, when he faces his own uncertainties, I do not want him searching for unattainable ideals; I want him to remember that even in his imperfection, he is still enough, he is still growing and still becoming. 

"And perhaps most importantly, I wanted him to know that he does not need to hide parts of himself to be worthy of love, not from the world, and never from me."

Ultimately, the journey of writing "Dear Waheed" transformed Farhana.

The woman who wrote the first letter felt a pressure to provide answers, the woman who finished the thirtieth realised that her greatest gift was her willingness to sit with the questions.

"The Farhana who wrote the first letter still believed she needed to have clarity before she could offer it. There was a quiet pressure to make the words meaningful, to ensure they carried enough wisdom, enough certainty. She stepped into the process as a mother trying to teach.

"But by the thirtieth letter, something had softened. She understood that her role was not to present a finished version of herself, but an honest one. That her strength did not lie in having all the answers, but in her willingness to sit with the questions.

"Writing became less about shaping her son, and more about uncovering herself, her fears, her hopes, her faith and her becoming.

"She began to see that she, too, was still growing. Still learning how to return, how to trust and how to surrender. She started by trying to leave something behind for her son, and ended by finding a deeper sense of herself within the words she gave him."

When asked for the best piece of wisdom she has gathered to navigate life's storms, Farhana offers a simple yet profound concept.

"Return, again and again, to Allah (God), to yourself, and to the quiet truth that steadies you. Return to Allah (God), even when you feel distant. Return to yourself, even when you feel lost. Return to what is right, even after you have fallen short. 

"I used to think that strength meant getting it right the first time, that certainty was something you either had or did not have. But over time, I came to understand that life is not a straight path; it is a continuous returning.

"That no matter how far you feel, or how uncertain the season, there is always a way back, and that returning is, in itself, a form of grace," she ended. 

The Lions’ historic march to the United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-finals continued at Ellis Park on Saturday afternoon when they emphatically ended Connacht’s six-match unbeaten run in the tournament, winning 33-21.

The Lions have never made it to the quarter-finals of the URC, but on the evidence of their own six-match winning streak, they are not only guaranteed a quarter-final spot, but smart money will back them to go deep into the playoffs.

The Lions have the best momentum you can get in rugby — the kind manufactured by old-fashioned hard work.

Their opening try was a beauty. Flyhalf Chris Smith wonderfully threaded prop SJ Kotze through the defensive line, and then Smith quickly worked the ball out wide for winger Angelo Davids to finish in the corner. Not for nothing is Smith the leading points scorer in the URC — he nailed the conversion from the touchline.

When the big man makes the break, you’ve got to finish it off 💪@Vodacom #URC #KidsRound | #LIOvCON pic.twitter.com/HXePtRM1yP

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

The Lions were impressive in how they varied their play, including Morne van den Berg winning territory each time he snuck round on the blindside when the opposition thought he would go wide.

Connacht tried to grind their way into the game, and they kept the Lions’ attacking game at bay, but on the 20-minute mark, Henco van Wyk smashed through the defence and raced 40m while handing off tacklers to score a superb solo try.

The Lions’ defence was also stout, with the Irishmen being held up over the line several times in the first half. They were also good at the breakdown, where the Connacht players were repeatedly penalised for holding on in the tackle.

Again Connacht fought back, and again their efforts came to nought, and once more the Lions took the ball upfield and scored, this time there was excellent finishing by flank Siba Mahashe.

At 21-0 at halftime, the Lions were over the hills and far away.

VAN WYK ON FIRE 🔥🦁

He can’t stop scoring at the moment 😮‍💨@vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #LIOvCON pic.twitter.com/8YymmL4M8M

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

And it was 28-0 early in the second half when captain Francke Horn created a try from nothing — he dummied a defender and once in a half gap, snapped a pass to centre Erich Cronje on the touchline, who finished neatly.

A yellow card for Kotze, because of a high tackle, gave Connacht an opportunity for a comeback. They immediately scored via Matthew Devine.

A deft 50-22 by fullback Quan Horn at the three-quarter mark laid the platform for Horn to create a second try for Van Wyk.

Connacht replacement fullback Shayne Bolton scored a consolation try for the Irishmen.

Scorers

Lions — Tries: Angelo Davids, Henco van Wyk (2), Siba Mahashe, Erich Cronje. Conversions: Chris Smith (4). Penalty: Smith.

Connacht — Tries: Matthew Devine, Shayne Bolton. Conversions: Hugh Gavin (2).

Mamelodi Sundowns are eager to make up for lost ground and retake control of their Betway Premiership title charge by bagging all three points against Richards Bayat uMhlathuze Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon (5.30pm kick-off).

Sundowns endured a 1-1 draw with Stellenbosch in their last league clash at home, Loftus Versfeld, during midweek action. This result left them second on the log with 57 points, one behind leaders Orlando Pirates, who have played a game more.

With six games remaining in their league campaign, Sundowns cannot afford to drop more points if they are to secure a record-extending ninth Premiership title in a row, and the second successive title under coach Miguel Cardoso.

The Portuguese coach was livid after the draw with Stellies, storming off his post-match media duties on television. He lamented that his troops had ample chances to kill off the game and completely manage it before Khulumani Ndamane conceded a penalty in the dying moments for the visitors..

Sundowns are accustomed to the pressure of the season's crunch time. They are widely expected to defeat Richards Bay away, which is why attacker Arthur Sales insists that the draw with Stellies served as a wake-up call.

“We feel bad about the draw. But I think it’s the right step for improvement. It will push us to do better,” Sales said.

Sales is not naive, though, acknowledging that Richards Bay will not be push-overs. The Natal Rich Boyz have recently made their home ground a fortress, making it difficult for any visiting team to leave with three points. 

Their notable strides include beating Kaizer Chiefs and holding Pirates to a recent draw. Pirates’ coach Abdeslam Ouaddou was highly impressed by the team, openly revealing that he hopes they do his side a favour against Sundowns.

Sales agreed with Ouaddou, acknowledging the game won’t be easy, which is why Sundowns need to be at their best from start to finish.

“I think it will be a tough game, playing that side. But I think we need to show something to our fans, how we answer to them,” he said.

Sundowns’ match against Richards Bay will follow the Soweto derby clash between Pirates and arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs, which will be headlining the day’s fixtures at an earlier kick-off (3pm) at FNB Stadium. 

The result of the derby will go a long way in shaping the title race, especially since Sundowns are still scheduled to face Kaizer Chiefs in their own league fixture next week.

Sales remains focused on Sundowns, not other teams. Given that their clash is also sold-out, with Masandawana expected to dominate in the stands, the towering attacker wants the team to live up to expectations.

“I think it will be nice to play in front of a full crowd because it shows that everyone believes in us,” Sales said. “So we need to give a good answer and show a 100% effort in the game, and try to win three points.”

The Soweto Derby could prove decisive in the ultimate fate of Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs this season, making victory a non-negotiable for both teams.

While a collective effort will seal the result at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off), individual brilliance will prove vital. We look at three key match-ups that could define the outcome.

Relebohile Mofokeng (Pirates) v Aden McCarthy (Chiefs)

Mofokeng has been thriving in the No 10 position this year, scoring crucial and well-executed strikes. His ability to bypass defenders, link up with teammates, and impeccable positioning have made him stand out.

He won’t have it easy against Chiefs. McCarthy is expected to watch him like a hawk, reading the gaps, injecting calm and composure into his defence, and allowing the wing-backs to flourish.

Thalente Mbatha (Pirates) v Lebohang Maboe (Chiefs)

Mbatha is one of the kingpins of Pirates’ midfield. He thrives on controlling the game's tempo and has a knack for goal, thanks to his smart movement alongside teammates during open-play and set-pieces.

Mbatha’s freedom on and off the ball will be tested by Maboe. The Chiefs youth graduate has been the team's central pivot since his arrival. He combines well with his teammates, utilising neat passes and excellent scanning of his surroundings.

Lebone Seema (Pirates) v Flavio Silva (Chiefs)

Seema has seamlessly adapted to life at Pirates since his pre-season arrival. He complements his fellow centre-backs by knowing exactly when to commit, cover, and move forward, having already scored two 'scorchers' this season.

He must continue to keep things neat and tidy against Silva. The Guinea-Bissau international is finding the net with crucial goals, a result of both individual skill and collective effort. Silva consistently creates space for himself, reads the movement of his teammates, and simply knows where the net is.

The Stormers returned to the top of the United Rugby Championship (URC) and effectively sealed a quarter-final place following a crushing 48–12 victory over the Glasgow Warriors in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon.

When captain Ruhan Nel scored the fourth try in the corner after chasing a neat grubber off the boot of flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, playing in his 50th cap, the match was all but sealed, although there were still 30 minutes left to play.

Even though the Warriors were at full strength for this clash, the way the home side controlled proceedings showed why they were comfortable after securing their bonus-point try. They were in control of the game from almost the first kick-off, although there were still a few hiccups in their play.

But the manner in which they physically dominated Glasgow in the tight exchanges throughout the clash, and the way they controlled territory and possession, laid the platform for the convincing win. They also redeemed themselves after letting a victory over Connacht slip last weekend under tough circumstances.

Player of the Match and loosehead prop Ntuthuko Mchunu scored two brilliant tries, despite injuring his shoulder early in the game. He made a crunching tackle and stayed down before receiving treatment that got him back on his feet.

His tries came five minutes apart, with the first following a neat tap-and-go penalty by hooker André-Hugo Venter, while a pass out the back door by tighthead prop Neethling Fouché cheekily sent Mchunu crashing through would-be tacklers to score. His second came after a strong rolling maul broke apart, allowing him to crash over with the ball in hand.

Perfect assist, calm finish 🎨⚡️@vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #STOvGL pic.twitter.com/dYOAC9jidk

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

Eighthman Evan Roos also scored a superb runaway try after a Glasgow high kick backfired, with the Stormers making metres along the touchline before some slick interplay by scrumhalf Cobus Reinach and Feinberg-Mngomezulu sent Roos over for his five-pointer.

Referee Eoghan Cross had his hands full with discipline, as expected in a top-of-the-table clash. Glasgow received two yellow cards — one of which could easily have been a red — while Reinach was also shown yellow after repeated warnings.

However, it was a victory the Stormers can be proud of. They never allowed the Warriors into the game, and it takes a strong defensive side to keep the Scottish club scoreless for over 40 minutes. Their forwards were outstanding, and the backs ensured the team played in the right areas of the field.

Evan can’t stop scoring! 🤩👏🏼@Vodacom #URC | #KidsRound | #STOvGLA pic.twitter.com/FstjAzKGvC

— Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial_RSA) April 25, 2026

Feinberg-Mngomezulu and returning loose forward Keke Morabe capped off the game by each dotting down in the final 10 minutes following further dominant rolling mauls by the home side.

They are back to winning ways with a resounding victory and will enjoy a short break before two crucial overseas URC matches that will determine whether they remain atop the table. The only blemish was the injury to Reinach, who hobbled off — and the Stormers will hope it is not a serious leg issue.

Points scorers

Stormers 48 (24) Tries: Ntuthuko Mchunu (2), Evan Roos, Ruhan Nel, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Keke Morabe. Conversions: Feinberg-Mngomezulu (6). Penalties: Feinberg-Mngomezulu (2). Glasgow Warriors 12 (12): Tries: Ollie Smith, Gregor Hiddleston. Conversion: Adam Hastings.

Brandon Petersen is relishing what he describes as his best season at Kaizer Chiefs, crediting hard work and patience within the team, as he looks to finish strongly, including winning the final Soweto derby of the campaign.

Chiefs will visit arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the return leg of the Betway Premiership Soweto derby at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off).

While they may be underdogs on paper, Chiefs are highly motivated. They are unbeaten in their last six league matches, with five wins and a draw against Polokwane City, and have Petersen back between the posts.

The Chiefs captain missed the first derby after undergoing surgery on the eve of the match – a setback that temporarily disrupted his form, having kept 11 clean sheets prior to that.

Now fully fit, Petersen has returned among the top performers, extending his tally to 13 clean sheets in 19 league matches. It’s no surprise he is pleased with how his season has unfolded.

“This is probably one of the best seasons I’ve had at the club, if not the best,” said Petersen ahead of the derby. “I think this season has been a good one – a special one. I had a strong start.

“I learnt a lot from last season, where things didn’t go well. We ended up winning the Nedbank Cup, but in the league, personally, I felt disappointed. We conceded a lot of goals in certain areas, so it was important to reflect.

“I sat down with the goalkeeper coach and my fellow goalkeepers to make sure that coming into this season, we were mentally and physically ready.”

Petersen’s journey to the top hasn’t been easy. He joined the club in July 2021 after spending the previous season without a team following the sale of Bidvest Wits.

His start was far from smooth, as he was initially behind two experienced international goalkeepers. But through patience and hard work, he has risen to become not only the No. 1, but also the club captain.

“In the beginning when I joined Chiefs, Itumeleng Khune and Daniel Akpeyi were there,” Petersen explained. “It was about understanding that I was stepping into a competitive environment, and that those before me had served the club well.

“But I realised that we are placed in certain situations for a reason, and we all have our own paths. I couldn’t try to be like those who came before me – I needed to focus on my journey and find my purpose at the club.”

His performances this season have not gone unnoticed. Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos recently indicated that, had Petersen not been injured, he would have been in contention for the latest national team squad.

With a handful of matches remaining and Chiefs pushing for a top-three finish, Petersen is focused on maintaining his form and letting his performances speak for themselves.

“It was disappointing, but only at that moment,” he said. “Hearing that from the coach gives me motivation to keep working hard.

“To be selected, you have to perform at club level. There are a few games left, and that’s where my focus is. That’s the only way to earn a national call-up.”

In Sunday’s derby, Petersen will come up against one of his rivals for a national team place, Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine.

Chaine has enjoyed an outstanding season, matching the club record of 17 clean sheets in a league campaign – previously set by Moeneeb Joseph.

Regardless of the competition, Petersen has praised his counterpart’s consistency.

“He’s had a phenomenal season, and last season as well. He’s been one of the most consistent goalkeepers in the league,” Petersen said. “Hats off to him. 

At clubs like Chiefs and Pirates, expectations are high, so to perform at that level consistently is impressive. Long may it continue.”

There was no masking the bitter disappointment in Sharks coach JP Pietersen’s voice when he commented on his team’s failure to make the United Rugby Championship quarter-finals.

The Sharks lost 33-28 to Edinburgh on Friday night to extinguish their faint hopes of finishing in the tournament’s top eight. The Sharks still have two matches to play — against Benetton and Zebre — but the gap between them and the eighth-placed team is now too vast to bridge.

“Obviously, I am very disappointed with the result,” Pietersen said. “It was two matches on the road that I felt we could have won, especially this one that seemed closer.”

The week before, the Sharks had controversially lost to the Ospreys.

“The top eight is out of reach now, and by our standards to finish outside of the top eight is hugely disappointing,” Pietersen admitted.

The Sharks had a good opening quarter and opened the scoring in the sixth minute when wing Edwill van der Merwe completed an impressive passage of play. At one point, they led 21-14.

“I felt we had control in the first half. We started well, scored a good try. In saying that, we gave away two tries in the first half through soft moments,” Pietersen said. “At times, we didn’t manage the game well. We gave away soft penalties and easy exits in our half.”

Midway through the second half, Edinburgh scored three tries in eight minutes to take the game away from the visitors.

“When we got the ball, we didn’t kick it out, which would have given us control. We kept it in play, which put us under pressure and resulted in them scoring,” Pietersen explained. “They scored soon after with a quick kick-off. We could have done better by anticipating that.”

There was also an unfortunate concussion suffered by playmaker Jaden Hendrikse after just 25 minutes.

“Losing Jaden in the first half was difficult,” said Pietersen. “Someone with his experience, his game management during that pressure cycle would have been important for us.”

Pietersen said his group of players has plenty to learn from their failed campaign.

“We are learning as a group. This group is learning to win. My job as a coach is to get this group of players to believe and to convert these opportunities into winning games. I am committed to doing this.”

A huge positive from the tour is the emergence of the brilliant 18-year-old fullback Zekhethelo Siyaya.

“Siyaya impressed me yet again. This kid is unreal! This is what you want from our players. He is the real deal.”

The breaking news this week that the Cheetahs are likely to join the United Rugby Championship (URC) is manna from heaven for a union that has been treated deplorably by the powers-that-be.

The lifeline looks set to head to the Free Staters as a result of restructuring in Welsh rugby, where one team is expected to be cut from the competition. It has been incredibly sad to watch such a proud South African team degenerate over the last decade after being cast into the wilderness.

Poignantly, and ironically, we have seen Rassie Erasmus speaking on television about the glory days of the Cheetahs when they won the full-strength Currie Cup three years in a row under Erasmus and former Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber. In the Erasmus documentary, there was the famous clip of a gleeful Ollie le Roux smoking a cigar minutes after the final whistle of the 2005 triumph over the Blue Bulls.

That made it all the more startling to hear that a decade later, the Cheetahs were in such a parlous state that they were battling to pay their electricity bills, and some players’ salaries had been paid late.

How can it be that such a cornerstone of South African rugby became a poor relation? It started with the decision by SA Rugby in late 2020 to boot the Cheetahs (and the Southern Kings) out of the PRO14 to make way for the Stormers, Sharks, Lions, and Bulls for an expanded competition named the United Rugby Championship. Those four unions had exited Super Rugby as South Africa realigned itself to the northern hemisphere.

Incidentally, Super Rugby had also seen the Cheetahs treated shabbily. They were yanked in and out of that competition as it expanded and contracted, and were always seen as the expendable South African team.

The Cheetahs are treated this way because they are financially poorer than the teams from Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, and Pretoria. They are lesser money-spinners, and as long as the game has been professional, the Cheetahs have been on the back foot and have perpetually struggled to hold on to the magnificent players they produce.

The Sharks, in particular, pillaged the Free State. It started in the ‘90s with Andre Joubert, Vleis Visagie, Henry Honiball, Pieter Muller, and Ollie le Roux, and continued with the likes of Ruan Pienaar, Frans Steyn, Coenie Oosthuizen, AJ Venter, Andries Strauss, and Bismarck and Jannie du Plessis.

When the Cheetahs were kicked out of the PRO14 in September 2020, they lost 23 players by January 2021. Thus began a dark patch; not only were players leaving for better opportunities, but the Cheetahs could not attract new ones. They were no longer an attraction for players who were not starting regularly at the glamour unions.

The Cheetahs have had a lifeline of sorts in the second-tier EPCR Challenge Cup, but this has been the "devil in disguise" because it has put them in the poor house. The invitation came with the clause that European teams would not travel to Bloemfontein; the Cheetahs had to stage their “home” games in Europe. They initially chose the Italian city of Parma, where each of their four home games cost them R400,000.

The Cheetahs felt the pinch in Parma to the degree that kit could only be washed every second day to save on the laundry bill. Thankfully, they have an exceptional sponsor in Toyota and passionate coaches in Steyn and Pienaar. The much-decorated Springboks have strong Free State roots and have hung in with the team despite the growing struggle.

But it looks like the corner has finally been turned with the signing of double-World Cup winner Faf de Klerk and the door opening at the URC. We can only hope that they do not get kicked out again.

Whatever the injustices the Sharks may have suffered in their loss to the Ospreys, there was nothing for them to peg their defeat on in Edinburgh on Friday night other than their own failures when they went down 33-28 at the Hive Stadium.

The Sharks were in front 21-14 going into the final quarter when Edinburgh turned on the afterburners to score three tries to secure the spoils and extinguish the Sharks' faint hopes of making the URC top eight.

A late try earned the Durbanites two bonus points, but it was too little too late. The hospital patient fighting for his life that defence coach Joey Mongalo had spoken about pre-game, had been taken to the mortuary.

The Sharks started like men on a mission when an impressive buildup propelled wing Edwill van der Merwe over for a try after six minutes.

Edinburgh hooker Ewan Ashman answered with a try that was quickly cancelled out by a maul try by Phepsi Buthelezi.

As the half progressed, the Sharks’ starting fizz began to wane as the home side came back, even though they were being out-scrummed.

The injury jinx that has plagued the Sharks struck again when Jaden Hendrikse, who had minutes before bravely stopped an Edinburgh drive over the line, took a head knock and was carted off the field.

He was soon followed by Siya Masuku. He had been playing out of position at inside centre when he limped off.

As the wind went from the Sharks’ sails, flanker Glen Young scored shortly before halftime for a 14-14 score at the break.

The Sharks began the third quarter with renewed vigour. A powerful surge by Andre Esterhuizen toward the tryline was the platform for Vincent Koch to score.

But that heralded a three-try blitz by the home side —wing Mosese Tuipoluto scored after finding space on the openside touchline, scrumhalf Hector Patterson then profited after his opposite number, Bradley Davids, had had a kick charged down; and the third try was a counter-attacking beauty from Darcy Graham.

Mongalo’s patient was flat-lining in his hospital bed, and a late try by Vincent Tshituka was a fruitless resuscitation.

Scorers

Edinburgh — Tries: Ewan Ashman, Glen Young, Mosese Tuipoluto, Hector Patterson and Darcy Graham. Conversions: Cammy Scott (2), Ross Thompson (2).

Sharks — Tries: Edwill van der Merwe, Phepsi Buthelezi, Vincent Koch, Vincent Tshituka. Conversions: Jean Smith 4.

Number one versus number two collide on Saturday in Cape Town when the Stormers host the Glasgow Warriors in a top-of-the-log United Rugby Championship (URC) encounter.

A lot is at stake for both sides, but more so for the home team at DHL Stadium (1.45pm kick-off). It is their final match in front of their supporters in the league phase. After this, two tough away clashes await to round off the round-robin stages.

Looking at the congested URC table, it could potentially be the final home game the Stormers play if they cannot secure a victory. A couple of teams are breathing down their necks and are within touching distance of the second-placed Cape side.

A bonus-point win, however, would have the opposite effect; they could leapfrog the Warriors if they deny their Scottish visitors any points from the match.

That is easier said than done.

While the Stormers have shuffled their matchday squad, moving Damian Willemse to fullback and bringing in Wandisile Simelane on the wing, there are a few areas the Warriors will look to exploit. However, it remains a strong home side and, with flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu set to play his 50th match, they will be eager to deliver a special performance.

Glasgow have bolstered their ranks with internationals, bringing in some big guns to the starting line-up to maintain their impressive winning record over the Stormers.

Plenty of eyes will be on the performances of Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Willemse at the back and debutant Markus Muller, but the forwards must lay the perfect platform against a wily Warriors pack. They will be tested at the breakdown and on defence, and clean ball for scrumhalf Cobus Reinach will be crucial.

The Stormers can seal a quarter-final spot with a bonus-point win, and they owe their supporters a strong showing in their final home game of the league phase.

Stormers XV

15 Damian Willemse, 14 Wandisile Simelane, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Dan du Plessis, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Ruben van Heerden, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements: 16 JJ Kotzé, 17 Oli Kebble, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Marcel Theunissen, 20 Keke Morabe, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Jurie Matthee, 23 Markus Muller.

Glasgow Warriors XV 

15 Kyle Rowe, 14 Kyle Steyn (captain), 13 Huw Jones, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 11 Ollie Smith, 10 Adam Hastings, 9 Ben Afshar, 8 Jack Dempsey, 7 Angus Fraser, 6 Euan Ferrie, 5 Alex Samuel, 4 Ryan Burke, 3 Zander Fagerson, 2 Gregor Hiddleston, 1 Patrick Schickerling.

Replacements: 16 Johnny Matthews, 17 Nathan McBeth, 18 Sam Talakai, 19 Dylan Cockburn, 20 Jare Oguntibeju, 21 Sione Vailanu, 22 Stafford McDowall, 23 Jack Oliver.

Referee: Eoghan Cross (Ireland), AR 1: Griffin Colby (SA), AR 2: Dylen November (SA), TMO: Peter Martin (Ireland).

Teko Modise has built a second career in fashion, moving from professional football into the industry as an ambassador for African Fashion International (AFI).

Known as “The General" during his playing days, he is now a regular presence on runways and represents the luxury label Nala Privé.

The House of Nala pop-up store is currently open at Oceans Mall, where it forms part of the build-up to the Metro FM Music Awards 2026. The space also connects fashion with music through its role as an official partner of the awards.

On Friday, April 24, AFI hosted a runway presentation at the mall, where the Nala Privé Autumn/Winter 2026 collection was unveiled.

The show featured a mix of established and emerging models, including young talent from Durban, reflecting a wider effort to grow the local fashion community.

“Independent Media Lifestyle” caught up with Modise at the event, where he spoke about the importance of the brand’s expansion into Durban and its implications for the industry.

“The new store that has opened in Durban, I think it is about time that House of Nala can really expand. The fact that they are here is a good sign that she really wants to expand and grow her interest in fashion.

It really gives so many people opportunities to be part of, especially in the fashion line. So I am glad that it is here,” he said.

Modise pointed to the presence of designers and industry figures as a sign of commitment to growth. He noted that the involvement of local models, including younger participants, showed how the platform could open doors for new voices in fashion.

For him, the event was not only about showcasing clothing but also about building pathways into the industry.

Beyond his ambassador role, Modise also reflected on his personal relationship with style. He said that he does not follow a fixed approach to fashion and instead focuses on comfort and self-expression.

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A post shared by Africa Fashion International (@afi_sa)

“I do not think I have a specific style. For me, it is more about comfort. As long as I feel good in whatever I am wearing. It is about owning the style that I want and showcasing my personality,” he said.

He explained that fashion has become a way for him to communicate without speaking much. Over time, clothing has taken on a deeper meaning shaped by his upbringing and career.

Modise shared that growing up without access to clothing influenced how he now views fashion and presentation.

He said that as a young boy, seeing well dressed people represented a form of success. That idea stayed with him as he entered professional football and later transitioned into public life beyond sport.

Fashion, he said, became part of both his passion and his identity.

Now active in the fashion space, Modise continues to explore new looks while staying grounded in what feels natural to him. He also hinted at what audiences can expect from him at the awards ceremony, where he is set to appear on the black carpet and present an award.

He said that his outfit would be more reserved this time but still true to his personality.

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He added that he looks forward to seeing what others will wear and drawing inspiration from different styles as he continues to refine his own.

Through his involvement with AFI and Nala Privé, Modise’s journey reflects a shift from sport into fashion, where he now uses style as a form of expression and a way to support the growth of the industry.

The fallout from the Sharks versus Ospreys match last week has gone nuclear, with the owner of the Durban team, Marco Masotti, suggesting that lie detector tests could get to the bottom of the uncontested scrums issue that ruined the game.

The Ospreys won 21-17, but the final 15 minutes became a farce after explosive scrumming by Sharks replacement props Ox Nche and Vincent Koch, who had the Welshmen backpedalling, only for the Ospreys to put up a white flag, claiming that they had run out of fit props.

Some of those props are playing this weekend against Cardiff.

I walked into the Bridgend stadium last Saturday and felt the spirit of rugby with so many Welsh legends plastered on the walls — only to leave with the spirit of Maradona’s “Hand of God” following the uncontested scrums. The integrity of our URC league demands better. Is anyone… https://t.co/0XoTsESeD4

— Marco Masotti (@MarcoMasotti_) April 23, 2026

In another controversy in the game that evoked the ire of South Africans, Sharks wing Ethan Hooker seemed to be late-tackled by Ospreys wing Luke Morgan in the process of scoring. Hooker suffered a dislocated shoulder, but the match officials ruled no wrongdoing.

Masotti, still seething, has probably tongue in cheek — but making his point nonetheless — suggested that the Welsh side have undermined the integrity of the game to the point that he compares what went on in Bridgend to the cheating of Argentine Diego Maradona at the 1986 soccer World Cup in a match against England.

Maradona leapt up into the air and pretended to head the ball into the goal; instead, he used his hand to swat the ball into the net. The act was christened the ‘Hand of God’.

Masotti wrote on X: “I walked into the Bridgend stadium last Saturday and felt the spirit of rugby with so many Welsh legends plastered on the walls — only to leave with the spirit of Maradona’s 'Hand of God' following the uncontested scrums.

“The integrity of our URC league demands better. Is anyone involved willing to submit to a lie detector test? I am sure our fans will offer a reward to anyone who comes forward with information.”

The Proteas Women are still searching for that “perfect game” as they prepare to face India in the fourth T20 International at the Wanderers on Saturday evening (6pm), looking to extend an already impressive unbeaten run.

South Africa are firmly in control of the five-match series, having already sealed it with three convincing victories over their opponents.

The standout moment so far came in the third match, when the Proteas pulled off a stunning record-breaking 193-run chase to secure a first bilateral T20I series win over India.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt led from the front with a superb 115 runs off 53 balls, scoring 14 fours and five sixes in an innings that featured both the fastest half-century and century in Proteas Women’s history.

Re-live a Run Chase for the Ages! 💥🏏#TheProteas rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion, chasing down 193 against India Women in the third T20I with fearless intent and flawless execution. 💪🇿🇦

A night where belief met brilliance and history was written. 💫#Unbreakable pic.twitter.com/VvnQbBXHhk

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) April 24, 2026

The series victory provides a timely boost ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales from June 12 to July 5, 2026.

Despite the dominant performances, the Proteas want no signs of complacency to creep in.

Speaking ahead of the fourth match, all-rounder Chloé Tryon made it clear the focus remains on sharpening their overall performance rather than dwelling on results. While one eye is already on the World Cup, the team are keen to tidy up key areas in the final two matches.

“The batting has improved a lot, and I feel like our bowling has come a long way, especially after a tough New Zealand series, but I still think our fielding is probably something we can work on,” Tryon said on Friday.

“The good thing about playing against India and not doing well in the field is that we’re still winning matches. Hopefully, all of that can come together, and we can put in a perfect performance. We’ve got two important games still coming up - building blocks for us. If we can just tighten up on those small things, it will give us really good confidence going into a World Cup.”

Matchday -1! 🏏#TheProteas conclude every detail of their final preparations ahead of the 4th T20I tomorrow. 🇿🇦#Unbreakable pic.twitter.com/eooXVy4aWs

— Proteas Women (@ProteasWomenCSA) April 24, 2026

Even if they have sealed the series, there’s a clear determination within the squad to maintain standards and keep improving.

Tryon added that head coach Mandla Mashimbyi reminded them that they are starting from zero again on Saturday and should not fall in love with winning, but rather stick to their processes. According to her, the team is in a good and confident space.

“The next two games are still really important. We know how strong the Indian side is, and we can’t take anything for granted. It’s about building on the performances we’ve had. We’re going to stick to our processes and keep building for an exciting World Cup coming up.

“It is good that our top order is scoring runs, but we have a little bit of pad rash,” Tryon joked about sitting and watching their top order go.

“We are preparing like we are going to bat, but it has been great to see how our top order has done. Suné (Luus) and Wolfie (Wolvaardt) have been special upfront and good to watch. We don’t know what coach is planning for the next couple of games, but whether we change our lineup or not, we must be ready for the opportunity when we get it.”

The Bulls have beefed up their starting pack for Saturday’s clash with the Scarlets in Llanelli, but it is in the backline that coach Johan Ackermann reckons the finishing touches could come from a returning Springbok.

It is Kurt-Lee Arendse that Ackermann has in mind. The left wing returns from injury, as does another strike force in the electric youngster Cheswill Jooste, who is on the right wing.

With the powerful Stedman Gans at 13, and the experienced Harold Vorster at 12, plus the dangerous David Kriel at fullback, the Bulls have a potent backline combination.

“Kurt-Lee is world-class,” Ackermann said. “He’s been unlucky this year with not having continuous games. He came back from the Boks with a sore knee and then had one or two niggles, so we hope to get a run of games with him.

“Players like Kurt-Lee have world-class abilities, and they don’t need a lot of games to get back to their best, so hopefully it’ll start tomorrow.”

A big talking point is Ackermann’s decision to start with destroyer Wilco Louw, who has previously been used to spearhead the bomb squad. Louw had been out of the picture on the Bulls’ tour because of a death in the family.

The reasoning would be that at this crucial part of the URC season — there are just three rounds to go before the quarter-finals — Ackermann wants to dominate from the word go.

An unfortunate absentee from the match 23 is Springbok Canan Moodie.

“We treated Canan for his hamstring strain and started to test him on Tuesday, but on Thursday, there were still signs that it’s not 100 percent,” Ackermann explained.

“At this stage of the season, it’s too big a risk to push him and potentially worsen the injury. With a break next week, we’re hopeful it’s not too serious and that he’ll be ready when we return.”

The Bulls resume in Pretoria with home games against Benetton and Zebre.

On paper, the Bulls have arguably the strongest side they have picked this season, and should have too much class for the 14th-placed Scarlets, but Ackermann is demanding caution.

“The Scarlets are a very good team,” Ackermann said. “Just because they’re not in the top half of the table doesn’t mean they are not a good team — if you think that, you’ve got it totally wrong.

“Just look at the quality they’ve got on the field. They haven’t been outplayed by any team this season and could have won a lot of games by small margins.

“So, if you analyse them, there’s a lot of quality. They’re one of the higher-ranked sides in terms of scoring tries when they get into your 22. They have a good set-piece and a lot of experienced players.

“We need to be at our best.”

Scarlets: 15 Blair Murray, 14 Callum Woolley, 13 Joe Roberts, 12 Eddie James, 11 Macs Page, 10 Joe Hawkins, 9 Dane Blacker, 8 Fletcher Anderson (captain), 7 Jarrod Taylor, 6 Taine Plumtree, 5 Max Douglas, 4 Sam Lousi, 3 Henry Thomas, 2 Ryan Elias, 1 Kemsley Mathias Replacements: 16 Marnus van der Merwe, 17 Josh Morse, 18 Harri O’Connor, 19 Jac Price, 20 Dan Davis, 21 Archie Hughes, 22 Carwyn Leggatt-Jones, 23 Ioan Jones

Bulls: 15 David Kriel, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Stedman Gans, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Embrose Papier, 8 Cameron Hanekom, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Marcell Coetzee (captain), 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 Ruan Vermaak, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp Replacements: 16 Marco van Staden, 17 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 18 Francois Kloppers, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Mpilo Gumede, 21 Paul de Wet, 22 Willie le Roux, 23 Jeandre Rudolph

There’s no guessing when it’s derby week. The buzz is unmistakable, as the division of allegiances across the country becomes evident, especially in large social settings such as entertainment venues.

This weekend’s derby, set to be hosted at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm), has been amplified by the fact that both Soweto giants Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs are chasing invaluable three points, crucial to their end-of-season aspirations.

While the masses look forward to rallying behind their teams – Pirates aiming for the league title and Chiefs targeting a top-three finish – I can only hope supporters are also sharing meaningful messages and insights amid the banter leading up to the clash.

Kudos to both sets of supporters: the derby is sold out. That means there is huge interest not only in the game, but in the product – South African football – offering a return on investment for both the PSL and its sponsors, Betway.

“Sold out” means exactly that: no tickets are available online, at retail outlets, or at the stadium. Zilch. Nada. Dololo. Therefore, anyone without a ticket should not be anywhere near the stadium.

In the past two league derbies, there has been overcrowding at FNB Stadium, with attendance exceeding the 90,000-seat capacity. This was due to masses gaining entry with fake tickets or without tickets altogether.

This didn’t only endanger the players, but everyone inside the venue. Overcrowding can lead to stampedes and, tragically, fatalities – unfortunate and irreversible events that can be avoided if people adhere to simple rules and regulations.

As I write this, I’m reminded that 25 years ago, this month, more than 30,000 people beyond capacity flooded into the then 60,000-seat Ellis Park Stadium for this fixture, resulting in a stampede that claimed 43 lives.

It was a dark day for South African football, one that continues to haunt all stakeholders – the PSL, stadium management, security personnel, organisers and, most importantly, the families of those affected.

Given such history, the custodians of the Calabash, Stadium Management South Africa (SMSA), have been working to introduce improved and modernised measures to prevent such incidents, including enhanced ticketing systems.

𝐍𝐄𝐗𝐓_𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇🔜#𝐒𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐓𝐎𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐁𝐘

🆚 @KaizerChiefs
🗓️ Sunday,26 April 2026
🏟️ FNB Stadium
⏱️ 15:00
⛔ 𝐒𝐎𝐋𝐃-𝐎𝐔𝐓

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/evDfJXRNCJ

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) April 24, 2026

Introduced this season, SMSA’s online ticketing system, MyTicket, has faced challenges due to technical glitches. They have acknowledged this and appealed for patience, urging fans to arrive early at the stadium.

While many have heeded that call, others have not. That reflects poorly on the Soweto derby and, more broadly, on South African football across the continent and globally.

SMSA, alongside South African Police Service (SAPS) and Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), have vowed to implement stricter measures to ensure that the overcrowding seen in February is not repeated on Sunday. That is reassuring, as it shows a genuine concern for the safety of everyone in and around the stadium.

But responsibility should not rest solely with authorities – it lies with the fans too. Supporters are the lifeblood of football; without them, the sport loses its spirit. The COVID-19 period showed just how empty the game feels without crowds.

After that, there was a collective promise to protect the game at all costs. Yet, some who continue to ignore derby regulations seem to have forgotten that commitment.

In doing so, they risk not only their own safety, but that of everyone else. That is unfair – jeopardising the joy and livelihood of millions.

So, let the stakes remain on the result of the game on Sunday – not on the lives of innocent people. The solution is simple: if you don’t have a ticket, stay away from the stadium.

The Stormers have a plan for 18-year-old Markus Muller on Saturday, and they want to give him some United Rugby Championship (URC) experience against one of the top sides in the competition.

It is expected that the schoolboy star will get at least 10-15 minutes of game time against a star-studded Glasgow Warriors side at DHL Stadium (1.45pm kick-off) in this top-of-the-table clash, to prepare him for what awaits at senior level. He could potentially face an all-Scottish centre combination.

Muller’s inclusion on the replacement bench might come as a surprise; however, the Stormers have full faith in his abilities, and he will have the right personnel around him to ensure that the moment does not overwhelm him.

It is a critical yet straightforward game for the Stormers’ top-two ambitions in their final home fixture. A bonus-point victory, while preventing Glasgow from picking up points, will see them move into first place. However, a loss without any return could see the Cape side drop as far as fifth on the log.

So, a lot is riding on the result.

Flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is also set to play his 50th match, and he is expected to take control of the duel. Utility star Damian Willemse is at fullback and will add a different dimension to both attack and defence.

Glasgow, meanwhile, have selected a full-strength side for the clash, with only one player in the starting XV having fewer than 20 caps for the team.

That is why Dobson said they cannot read too much into last weekend’s 54-12 defeat against the Lions at Ellis Park. Scotland stars Huw Jones and Sione Tuipulotu reunite in midfield, while captain Kyle Steyn is also back on the wing. Jones and Tuipulotu could provide a significant test for Muller.

“It is 1 versus 2 on the log, and they made their intentions clear with last week’s selection. We cannot read too much into that,” Dobson said of the altered Glasgow side.

“They have clearly identified this game as a target, and it is much easier to win here than in Johannesburg. Look at Connacht (against the Lions). It is easier for Northern Hemisphere teams to play here than up at Ellis Park. This is a proper game on Saturday.

Building for the weekend 👊#WhateverItTakes ⚔️🛡️ pic.twitter.com/EgzswPovDX

— Glasgow Warriors (@GlasgowWarriors) April 22, 2026

“We want to give someone like Markus some experience in this type of match. He probably will not be the first player off the bench if something happens, but we want him to have 10 to 15 minutes at a high level — I think he is a Stormer. The plan will probably be to move Ruhan (Nel, captain) to 12 and bring him on.

“I do not want him to go to the U20 Championship, then return to the Currie Cup without having had this experience.”

Nel said they have taken stock and will look to rectify their mistakes from last weekend in this crucial clash. The team feels they have had good preparation following the funeral of former team manager Chippie Solomon, and they find themselves in a better emotional space.

The loss of Solomon was certainly felt during Saturday’s encounter with Connacht, but the Stormers are ready to step up and take control of their URC destiny.

SFM x 50 pic.twitter.com/7TvHLIHpbl

— DHL Stormers (@THESTORMERS) April 24, 2026

“It was a good week on the training field in terms of how we wanted to prepare. There were some good conversations, and the energy feels right. I have no doubt that we will be ready for what comes on Saturday.

“Last week was a very unique week, and hopefully we will not experience one like that again. There were plenty of emotions going into the Connacht game, but I felt we had control up until the 65th minute. We conceded three tries in that period, and based on the analysis, there are not many learnings to take from it.

“However, after uncle Chippie’s funeral, we addressed the situation and agreed that, at some point, we must pick things up again. That is the mentality of the group.”

Stormers XV

15 Damian Willemse, 14 Wandisile Simelane, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Dan du Plessis, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Ruben van Heerden, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements: 16 JJ Kotzé, 17 Oli Kebble, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Marcel Theunissen, 20 Keke Morabe, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Jurie Matthee, 23 Markus Muller.

Glasgow Warriors XV 

15 Kyle Rowe, 14 Kyle Steyn (captain), 13 Huw Jones, 12 Sione Tuipulotu, 11 Ollie Smith, 10 Adam Hastings, 9 Ben Afshar, 8 Jack Dempsey, 7 Angus Fraser, 6 Euan Ferrie, 5 Alex Samuel, 4 Ryan Burke, 3 Zander Fagerson, 2 Gregor Hiddleston, 1 Patrick Schickerling.

Replacements: 16 Johnny Matthews, 17 Nathan McBeth, 18 Sam Talakai, 19 Dylan Cockburn, 20 Jare Oguntibeju, 21 Sione Vailanu, 22 Stafford McDowall, 23 Jack Oliver.

The Soweto derby between arch-rivals Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is expected to be tightly contested at the Calabash on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off), given the magnitude and stakes of the match.

The team that reigns supreme won’t only rule Soweto and the better parts of the country, but will also bag three invaluable points, which could consolidate their end-of-season aspirations – a title push for Pirates and a top-three finish for Chiefs.

The players will ultimately decide the outcome, carrying the full responsibility for securing those three points. However, below, we look at why the game could be won by either side across all three departments.

Defence

Pirates have had the best defence in the league this season, conceding only 11 goals so far. Their rock-solid organisation has been mirrored by goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, who has kept an impressive 17 clean sheets, matching a club record.

Chiefs are not far off either – they’ve conceded only three goals more than Pirates, with captain and No. 1 Brandon Petersen admitting at the pre-match Soweto derby press conference that he is enjoying his best season at the club.

Another solid defensive performance from both sides will go a long way in securing three points – and vice versa. That’s why Chaine and Petersen must organise their defensive units well to ensure they keep their opposition at bay.

𝐍𝐄𝐗𝐓_𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇🔜#𝐒𝐎𝐖𝐄𝐓𝐎𝐃𝐄𝐑𝐁𝐘

🆚 @KaizerChiefs
🗓️ Sunday,26 April 2026
🏟️ FNB Stadium
⏱️ 15:00
⛔ 𝐒𝐎𝐋𝐃-𝐎𝐔𝐓

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/evDfJXRNCJ

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) April 24, 2026

Midfield

Pirates are blessed with strong depth in midfield, with coach Abdeslam Ouaddou rotating personnel with ease. This has given them assertiveness, cohesion, and control since the start of the season.

Chiefs, meanwhile, have largely relied on individual performances, with Lebohang Maboe holding the team together at times. His solo efforts have been a double-edged sword – placing pressure on him while pushing his teammates to step up and help restore balance.

Despite their contrasting approaches, both teams need to consolidate their plans. A well-functioning unit brings stability, while individual brilliance can still produce a cult hero in the derby, especially if he inspires his side to victory.

Attack

Pirates have struck a strong balance in their title pursuit, scoring the most goals (50) in the league alongside their defensive strength. They are now closing in on a club record of 52 goals in a season, but they cannot slow down – goals remain essential to winning the derby.

Chiefs, meanwhile, have recently rediscovered their scoring touch, netting 12 goals during a purple patch. After being held to a goalless draw away to Polokwane City last weekend, they will be eager to rediscover their attacking rhythm.

Scoring in the derby won’t only add excitement to what promises to be a thriller, but will also bring both teams closer to achieving their respective targets.

Sunday’s Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs arrives at a pivotal moment in the Betway Premiership title race.

With Mamelodi Sundowns close behind and holding games in hand, Pirates cannot afford another slip. Facing a resurgent Chiefs side, this clash goes beyond rivalry – it’s a high-pressure test of whether Pirates have the composure and cutting edge to stay in control of their title push.

Senior journalists Smiso Msomi and Mihlali Baleka pick the team who will come out on top on Sunday.

Why Pirates will win the Soweto derby | Smiso Msomi

Backing Orlando Pirates to edge Sunday’s Soweto Derby is more than just sentiment – it’s rooted in output, balance and big-game temperament.

Let's start with the numbers. Pirates are the highest scorers in the Betway Premiership, netting 50 goals in 25 matches. That return underlines both consistency and variety in attack.

The rise of Relebohile Mofokeng has been central to that, but just as important has been his synergy with fellow forward Oswin Appollis.

Together, they have given Pirates a cutting edge – combining flair with end product – and stretching defences in ways few teams in the league can handle.

That attacking threat has already been felt in this fixture. Pirates dismantled Kaizer Chiefs 3-0 in their last meeting, a performance built on control and ruthless finishing. It wasn’t a one-off either, but part of a broader trend that has seen them dominate recent league derbies.

At the other end of the pitch, there is just as much assurance. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has been a defining figure, keeping 17 clean sheets in the league this season – the most of any goalkeeper.

That reliability gives Pirates a platform. In tight games, they don’t need to chase; they can manage, absorb and strike when it matters.

Context adds another layer. With Sundowns still firmly in the title race, Pirates understand the stakes.

Every point counts, and that urgency tends to sharpen focus rather than create panic. This is a group that knows what is required in decisive moments.

Chiefs’ improved form suggests this won’t mirror the last meeting, but Pirates arrive with a more complete profile – a team that scores freely, defends with discipline and carries recent dominance in the fixture.

In a derby that often swings on fine margins, those factors point toward Pirates having just enough to come out on top once again.

Why Chiefs will win the Soweto derby | Mihlali Baleka

Granted, Pirates have been on a roll and sit pretty atop the standings, we tend to forget that form counts for nothing heading into the derby – a superstition that has been carried from generation to generation.

Kaizer Chiefs, however, won’t necessarily need to be underdogs to come out victorious on Sunday. Their six-game unbeaten streak – which has yielded five wins and one draw – proves that they’ve mastered the art of crunch time: getting results and seeing out matches.

That can’t be said for Pirates. For all their scoring sprees, they have struggled to come back once they trail, including in the recent draws with Siwelele and Richards Bay, which could come back to haunt them in the title race.

Sure, Chiefs lack fluidity and cohesion, but they make up for that with individual brilliance that has come to the fore, turning fringe players into crucial contributors.

Flavio Silva endured scrutiny and criticism upon his arrival at the club, but he has since endeared himself to the faithful. His resurgence tells a story of a thriving and stable environment.

Abdeslam Ouaddou has proven to be an all-round tactician, but his Chiefs counterparts, Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, operate as a unit – men at work.

They don’t get everything right at once, but they progress in stages. Chiefs lacked goals at the start of the season, but they kept clean sheets. Lately, they’ve found a good balance, with goalkeeper Brandon Petersen leading with aplomb from the back.

Soweto Derby Press Conference

Coach Khalil, Petersen and Msimango represented Kaizer Chiefs at today's presser as the two Soweto Giants get ready for Sunday's already SOLD OUT clash at FNB Stadium.#Amakhosi4Life #SowetoDerby #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/OCv6nKNpg9

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) April 23, 2026

A mere top-three finish will not be a major achievement for a club like Chiefs, but it brings calm and clarity, especially given the early-season turbulence.

The calm sweeping through the club doesn’t only suggest it will make the derby a thriller; more importantly, it tells the story of a team ready to rise and reclaim its place in a clash they have held as their holy grail since 1971.

KwaZulu-Natal police have confirmed that the suspects implicated in the Newark family massacre are due to appear in court on Tuesday, next week. 

"The court and investigating officers came to an agreement that the suspects will make their first appearance on Tuesday," said provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda. 

Meanwhile, Premier Thami Ntuli is expected to visit the family home on Friday.

Ntuli will engage with the family and other stakeholders while also receiving updates from law enforcement authorities on progress in the ongoing investigation.

Murders

Seven family members were kidnapped on Tuesday night from their Newark home and found murdered in Melmoth. 

The victims have been identified as Allen Monswamy, 52, his wife Sandy, 57, their children Kraidon, 26, and Shamaria, 20, and relatives Gonosagren Padayachee, 51, Mooniamma Padayachee, 78, and Mariama Happanah, 83.

KZN police said that when the domestic helper arrived on Wednesday morning to work, she found the house ransacked, vehicles missing, and the family missing. 

Newark police were summoned to the scene, and various police units were activated. One of the suspects worked for the family. 

"Swift police investigations led them to the Hlomendlini area, where two suspects were arrested on Wednesday afternoon.

"One of the suspects was found in possession of a cellphone that belongs to one of the kidnapped victims."

Police found the third suspect in Sundumbili in possession of a firearm. 

Rape

Police said the suspects broke into the victims’ house, tied them up with a rope, and one of them allegedly raped the 20-year-old woman before loading them onto a vehicle belonging to one of the victims and driving to Melmoth, a distance of approximately 200km from the scene.

"After collecting the banking details, the suspects shot and killed three victims. The other four victims were brutally stabbed to death."

Police also discovered that on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, several bank transfers were made from the victims’ accounts.

The suspects, aged 21, 26, and 28, face numerous charges of murder, kidnapping, robbery, and rape.  

The Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal, Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi, has commended the police for the swift arrest of suspects.

He said police will leave no stone unturned in the quest for a maximum jail sentence for the suspects.

IOL News 

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli visited the Monswamy family following the brutal murder of seven members of the family, as police confirmed that suspects arrested in connection with the case are expected to appear in court next week.

The visit comes days after the victims were abducted from their home in Newtown, Newark, under the Mandeni Local Municipality, before being transported to Melmoth where they were killed in an attack that has drawn widespread condemnation.

According to the Post newspaper, they have been identified as Allen Monswamy, 52, his wife Sandy, 57, their children Kraidon, 26, and Shamaria, 20, and relatives Gonosagren Padayachee, 51, Mooniamma Padayachee, 78 and Mariama Happanah, 83.

Speaking during the visit on Friday, Ntuli said the incident had deeply affected both government and the broader community.

“As you would know from the government side, the incident that happened here in your community really touched us. And we are here to offer our support and to share the pain,” he said.

He said social workers had been deployed to provide counselling to affected family members and residents.

Ntuli also commended the role played by community members, private security, and police in responding to the incident and assisting in the arrest of suspects.

“When they got the news to stand up together, private security and the police, in particular, were quite instrumental in arresting the suspects,” he said.

Police have since confirmed that the suspects will make their first court appearance on Tuesday, April 28.

Ntuli said authorities would pursue the matter to ensure justice for the victims, adding that police were still searching for at least one outstanding suspect.

“We are hopeful that soon he will be arrested.”

“We will do everything possible to ensure that the court gives a harsh sentence to these suspects,” he said.

He acknowledged growing public concern over violent crime in the province, saying the government needed to respond to persistent questions about safety.

He added that while cooperation between communities and law enforcement had led to arrests, the loss of life remained a significant failure.

“Cooperation which we made a call for is yielding results. Hence we were able to arrest the suspects but unfortunately we were unable to save the lives which was the most important thing.”

Ntuli said restoring a sense of safety in communities remained a priority and called for closer collaboration between residents, police, and local safety structures.

“My belief is that working together is the only solution. I do not believe government alone can do it,” he said.

He also raised concerns about substance abuse, citing drug and alcohol use as contributing factors to violent crime.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Kaizer Chiefs are relishing a sense of calm and confidence around the team after getting through a difficult phase by sticking to their traditions, which is why they’ll approach the Soweto derby with the same methods and mentality.

Chiefs will visit Pirates in the Soweto derby at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off). They are underdogs on paper, given Pirates’ upper hand in the league, victory in the reverse leg, and sheer dominance in the last five derbies.

However, Chiefs will head to the derby eager to rubber stamp their authority. They are on a high after winning five league games in a row, and drawing one in the last six, cementing their Top 3 aspirations.

Their turnaround has also lifted the pressure off the shoulders of co-coaches, Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, with former critics suddenly advocating for them to be given the reins permanently heading into the next season.

Given Msimango, who’s been involved in the ups and downs of the season as a spectator due to an injury and on-field personnel after bouncing back to full-fitness, revealed the secret behind the change of fortunes.

“I think there’s been a consistency in methods, regardless of how difficult the situation is,” he said. “I think we stuck to our guns – even though the results and we were getting negative feedback; we never deviated from who we are as Kaizer Chiefs and players”. 

Msimango attributes the consistency and a mentality shift for the positive change, stating:

“We have applied ourselves very well, and it’s starting to show now that consistency pays off. The mentality shift also plays a huge role. Big up to Chiefs for that!”

The Soweto derby is the mother of all derbies in the land, making it the biggest event in the sporting calendar, and form usually counts for nothing due to the magnitude of the game and emotional investment. 

Msimango warned his legion about playing the occasion, and not the game, insisting that they can’t let go of their working methods, especially after the 3-0 defeat in the reverse leg.1

“Firstly, I must acknowledge the embarrassment of the defeat,” he said. “As players, we take responsibility for the results of that game. But we’ve brushed that off now, and we are looking at what's to come”. 

He said their recent results have been a confidence booster, and they “don’t have to start changing our approach because of the derby. We need to apply the same things, and information we’ve been getting from the coaches”.

A Soweto derby win would go a long way in cementing Chiefs’ Top 3 finish, which would guarantee CAF Confederation Cup qualification next season. The team is still expected to challenge for trophies every season despite being due for a barren run.

When asked if the "purple patch" means they’ve forgotten their calibre and only thrive under less pressured situations, Msimango replied: 

“I wouldn’t say there’s more freedom now, but better understanding of the magnitude of the club that one is playing for”. 

He concluded that everyone needs to understand where they are and the type of club they are playing for to make it easier to get together.

“There are certain elements that we needed to come together, fix and try to get right,” he said. “It is just unfortunate that it happened at that stage of the season. These are things we should have dealt with in the pre-season. But it’s football, nothing is cast in stone”.

Drakensberg Boys Choir - Music In The Mountains

Enjoy the long weekend festivities as the Drakensberg Boys Choir welcomes audiences to its home campus for a musical spectacle.

The theme of the concert is “Hope, Heritage and Harmony” and over four immersive days, the campus will come alive with music, movement and community as audiences gather to celebrate the unifying power of music.

Attendees can also explore local stalls and handmade gifts while also enjoying an array of food, such as bunny chows and gourmet burgers.

All proceeds from the shows will go toward the school's bursary programme.

Where: Drakensberg Boys Choir School in Cathkin Park.

When: Runs until Monday, April 27, from 9am on all days. 

The Doek On Fleek Gospel Picnic 

This renowned lifestyle event features live worship and spiritual fellowship.

With an "All White" with a specific colour accent theme, the event is meant for spiritual revival, fellowship and celebration through music.

The line-up will include Noah, Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Brenden Praise, Jumbo and Thinah Zungu. 

Where: Munies Hockey Club.

When: Sunday, April 26, from 10am.

The 2026 Amanzimtoti Surf Fest 2026

This live surf action event promises a vibrant atmosphere on the Sapphire Coast. 

The community-focused festival hosted by the Shorebreak Surf Club and Shorebreak Surfing Ministry celebrates the Sapphire Coast's surf culture. 

Expect high-performance heats with pro photography capturing the action. There will also be rugby and volleyball matches that will run parallel to the surfing, as well as artisan markets to explore.

Another special feature will be the "Wheels on Waves" initiative, which provides sandcruiser floating wheelchairs for inclusive ocean access. 

Where: Amanzimtoti Main Beach.

When: Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, from 8am.

The Lions have made two tweaks – including a positional shift – but largely kept faith with a settled side as they prepare to host Connacht in Johannesburg on Saturday (4pm kick-off).

After dismantling the Glasgow Warriors 54-12 last weekend, the Johannesburg outfit will be chasing more of the same as they push for another bonus-point victory to cement their place in the Top 4 of the United Rugby Championship (URC).

They are aiming to make it six consecutive wins at Ellis Park, building as much momentum and security as possible before heading into their final two round-robin fixtures away from home. However, Connacht arrive in a confident mood after a shock victory over the Stormers, bringing their own bit of momentum into what promises to be a highly charged clash.

Head coach Ivan van Rooyen has introduced burly loose forward Batho Hlekani into the starting line-up. He takes over in the No 7 jersey, with Springbok Ruan Venter shifting to lock in place of the injured Etienne Oosthuizen. Hlekani will join eighthman and captain Francke Horn, along with opensider Siba Mahase, in forming a loose trio that combines power with explosiveness.

Up front, Bok tighthead Asenathi Ntlabakanye starts despite earlier uncertainty surrounding his availability due to a potential doping suspension. He will anchor the Lions scrum alongside centurion hooker PJ Botha and the mobile SJ Kotze against a formidable Connacht front row.

At the back, continuity is the order of the day, with Van Rooyen sticking to the attacking formula that tore the Warriors’ defence apart. Flyhalf Chris Smith is set to steer proceedings with both boot and ball, while the sharp service of Morné van den Berg will be tested against an Irish side renowned for their breakdown pressure.

Their responsibility will be to generate front-foot ball for the midfield and outside backs, laying the platform for a repeat of last weekend’s try-scoring display.

Scrum coach Julian Redelinghuys described the Glasgow performance as one of their best, but stressed the need for a similar effort over the full 80 minutes to overcome Connacht.

“There were spectacular tries against Glasgow, but what I did like was our fight,” Redelinghuys said.

“We were far ahead by the end of the game; they (Glasgow) had two opportunities in our 22m area, and the guys defended like we were still trying to win the game. They made line breaks, but we were fighting for each other with the tackling.

Zero shortcuts to this milestone. He hits hard on the field and you can see he’s built different. 💯@Vodacom #URC | #ExtraOrdinaryLeague | #RaceToTheEight | Fidelity SecureDrive @LionsRugbyCo pic.twitter.com/Ia0MEeznIA

— vodacomrugby (@VodacomRugga) April 24, 2026

“Connacht and Glasgow have a couple of similarities, but they are also very different. Connacht coach Stuart Lancaster has come in and simplified things, but they are more physical when they do it. It seems like they have a really good game model in the sense that they know how they want to play and they are proud of how they play. That is why they have been able to beat some proper teams.”

Connacht, meanwhile, made 10 changes to the side that beat the Stormers. They brought in more senior player, so the Lions must brace for a sterner test than might have been expected. Should Connacht push them, it could provide exactly the kind of game needed ahead of the final two overseas fixtures against Leinster and Munster.

Lions XV

15 Quan Horn, 14 Angelo Davids, 13 Henco van Wyk, 12 Richard Kriel, 11 Erich Cronjé, 10 Chris Smith, 9 Morné van den Berg, 8 Francke Horn (captain), 7 Batho Hlekani, 6 Siba Mahashe, 5 Darrien Landsberg, 4 Ruan Venter, 3 Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 2 PJ Botha, 1 SJ Kotze.

Replacements: 16 Morné Brandon, 17 Eddie Davids, 18 Sebastian Lombard, 19 Reinhard Nothnagel, 20 Siba Qoma, 21 JC Pretorius, 22 Nico Steyn, 23 Kelly Mpeku.

Connacht XV

15 Sam Gilbert, 14 Harry West, 13 John Devine, 12 Hugh Gavin, 11 Shane Jennings, 10 Jack Carty, 9 Colm Reilly, 8 Paul Boyle, 7 SHamus Hurley-Langton, 6 Cian Prendergast (captain), 5 Joe Joyce, 4 Niall Murray, 3 Jack Aungier, 2 Dylan Tierney-Martin, 1 Peter Dooley.

Replacements: 16 Matthew Victory, 17 Billy Bohan, 18 Fiachna Barrett, 19 Darragh Murray, 20 Sean Jansen, 21 Matthew Devine, 22 Sean Naughton, 23 Shayne Bolton.

In the ever-evolving world of food and digital content, few voices carry the warmth, authenticity and depth of experience quite like Rani Judnarain.

A seasoned private chef, entrepreneur and recipe developer, Judnarain has spent over 16 years building a name rooted in passion, precision and heartfelt storytelling through food.

At 50, Judnarain wears many hats. She is a private chef catering to both corporate and intimate events, a small business owner, a blogger and the founder of two growing brands: Baked with Love and Artisan Food & Co.

Her work goes far beyond the kitchen. From recipe creation and menu development to training within the food industry, she has carved out a multifaceted career that blends creativity with technical expertise.

Her journey, however, began long before her professional career. “At just four years old, I was in the kitchen with my mother,” she recalls.

Learning to make roti as a child laid the foundation for a lifelong love of cooking. Influenced deeply by her parents, Judnarain’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: food must be made with love, and that love should be evident in every bite.

This belief continues to shape her approach today, where flavour and presentation go hand in hand.

One of the standout elements of Judnarain’s career is her ability to create food that resonates emotionally.

Among her many culinary achievements, she holds a special place for her celebration cakes.

These are not just desserts but centrepieces of cherished milestones. “They become part of people’s most special moments,” she says, highlighting the emotional connection that defines her work.

Building her businesses was not about taking dramatic risks, but rather about consistency and dedication.

Baked with Love has grown steadily over 16 years, built on trust and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Her newer venture, Artisan Food & Co., reflects her meticulous nature. She spent two years testing and refining recipes before officially launching the online store in December 2025.

Starting with 16 products, the brand is now positioned for expansion, with plans to grow its range while maintaining its artisanal essence.

In today’s digital age, Judnarain has also cultivated a strong online presence, sharing recipes and food content that inspire home cooks and aspiring chefs alike.

Yet she is quick to challenge the perception that food content creation is easy. Behind every polished image are hours of testing, refining and careful execution.

“It’s not just about pretty pictures,” she explains. “It’s a craft that requires both creativity and discipline.”

Her passion is what keeps her consistent. For Judnarain, sharing recipes is not just about showcasing skills but about creating meaningful connections.

Knowing that her dishes can bring joy or become part of someone’s daily life fuels her dedication.

Living in Durban plays a significant role in shaping her culinary identity. The city’s rich cultural diversity offers an endless source of inspiration.

From Indian-influenced cuisine to traditional African dishes and fresh coastal seafood, Durban’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours.

For visitors, she recommends immersing themselves fully: explore local markets, enjoy a classic bunny chow and indulge in authentic, home-style meals that reflect the city’s heritage.

Travel is another source of inspiration for Judnarain. She is drawn to destinations that celebrate culture and authenticity, particularly those with strong artisanal food traditions.

Whether exploring bustling food markets or enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside, she finds creativity in the stories behind each dish and the people who make them.

Looking ahead, 2026 marks an exciting chapter. Judnarain plans to expand Artisan Food & Co., introduce new products and explore collaborations aligned with her passion for authentic, flavour-driven cuisine.

She is also working on a recipe book and aims to move into skills development, sharing her knowledge with aspiring food professionals.

A long-term vision includes opening a culinary studio dedicated to teaching and empowering others.

For those hoping to follow in her footsteps, her advice is grounded and honest: start where you are, stay consistent and embrace the learning process.

Success, she believes, comes from persistence, passion and authenticity.

The Bulls have significantly bolstered their starting pack and reshuffled the backline for this Saturday’s United Rugby Championship fixture, signalling a heavy artillery approach to the Round 16 clash against the Scarlets in Llanelli.

The most critical changes lie in the front five and the back three, with coach Johan Ackermann opting for a blend of returning stalwarts and tactical shifts.

While Gerhard Steenekamp and Johan Grobbelaar retain their spots, the inclusion of Wilco Louw at tighthead (replacing Francois Klopper) provides a massive boost to the Bulls' scrumming power.

Louw is widely regarded as one of the best scrummagers in the competition, and his presence often dictates the tempo of the set-piece. Louw is also a reliable source of scrum penalties.

Ruan Vermaak moves from the bench into the starting number four jersey, swapping places with Cobus Wiese.

This allows the Bulls to maintain a high work rate engine room from the first whistle. In the loose forwards, the formidable trio of Marcel Coetzee, Elrigh Louw, and Cameron Hanekom remains intact, providing continuity in a physical back row.

The backline sees the most movement. With Canan Moodie out of the number 11 jersey (hamstring injury), Kurt-Lee Arendse returns from a finger injury to start on the wing, bringing his world-class finishing and high-ball skills back to the fold.

David Kriel shifts from right wing to his preferred position at fullback, replacing Devon Williams. This move makes space for Cheswill Jooste to earn a start on the wing. Jooste is over a foot problem.

Workhorse Jeandre Rudolf enters the fray as the utility replacement, taking over from Sergeal Petersen, indicating a possible shift toward a more forward-heavy 6-2 bench split if needed.

Bulls — 15 David Kriel, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Stedman Gans, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Handré Pollard, 9 Embrose Papier, 8 Cameron Hanekom, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Marcell Coetzee (c), 5 Ruan Nortjé, 4 Ruan Vermaak, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp.

Replacements: 16 Marco van Staden, 17 Jan Hendrik Wessels, 18 Francois Klopper, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Mpilo Gumede, 21 Paul de Wet, 22 Willie le Roux, 23 Jeandré Rudolph.

The Sharks go into Friday night’s match at the Hive Stadium in Edinburgh with the fading pulse of a dying man, as defence coach Joey Mongalo described the team’s aspirations of making the United Rugby Championship quarter-finals.

Coach JP Pietersen agreed, saying, “Some hope is better than none.” True, but when you look at the points table, it is the same as saying if you don’t have a lotto ticket, you have no chance of winning.

The Sharks are currently 11th in the standings, 11 points behind the Bulls in eighth, with just three rounds left to play.

But faint URC hopes or not, the Sharks have to deliver a better performance to quieten the growing voice of protest from their fans.

The Sharks are almost certainly out of the URC race to eight; they are already out of the second-tier Challenge Cup, which adds up to a dismal return for the season.

The Sharks’ unimaginative attacking is probably the area they most need to improve, so it adds spice to this fixture that the new attacking coach joining Pietersen next season is, in fact, the current Edinburgh attack coach, Scott Mathie. The latter coached Durban High School and Griquas, and a lifetime ago played against Pietersen when Mathie was scrumhalf at Griquas.

Also look out for former Sharks hooker/flank Dylan Richardson, who is on the bench for the host team. In other South African connections, also on the Edinburgh bench is prop Boan Venter, who is finishing up in Scotland to join the Lions, while the starting loosehead is former Bull Pierre Schoeman.

Edinburgh: 15 Piers O’Conor, 14 Darcy Graham, 13 Mosese Tuipulotu, 12 Findlay Thomson, 11 Malelili Satala, 10 Cammy Scott, 9 Hector Patterson, 8 Tom Currie, 7 Freddy Douglas, 6 Glen Young, 5 Grant Gilchrist (captain), 4 Marshall Sykes, 3 Ollie Blyth-Lafferty, 2 Ewan Ashman, 1 Pierre Schoeman. Replacements: 16 Dylan Richardson, 17 Boan Venter, 18 Paul Hill, 19 Callum Hunter-Hill, 20 Tom Dodd, 21 Charlie Shiel, 22 Ross Thompson, 23 Jack Brown.

Sharks: 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 12 Siya Masuku, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jean Smith, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Manu Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Phatu Ganyane. Replacements: 16 Eduan Swart, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Siya Kolisi, 22 Bradley Davids, 23 Marnus Potgieter.

Referee: Ben Breakspear (Wales) Assistant referees: Rob McDowell (Scotland), Jonny MacKenzie (Scotland) TMO: Keith David (Wales)

Date: Friday, April 2026

Kick-off: 8.45pm.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has sounded the alarm over a potential surge in drunk driving incidents as South Africa prepares for two consecutive long weekends. 

With Freedom Day on Monday, April 27, and Workers' Day on Friday, May 1, authorities are bracing for heavy traffic volumes and reckless road behaviour, exacerbated by the fact that the holidays coincide with many citizens' monthly paydays.

The National Traffic Police (NTP) confirmed that a massive multi-agency operation is underway. Roadblocks and patrols will be intensified across all major arterial routes, involving provincial authorities, Metro police, and municipal law enforcement.

"The RTMC is extremely worried about reckless behaviour on the roads," the agency stated. "The road safety agency calls upon motorists to prioritise safety to ensure the country eliminates avoidable crashes that claim the lives of innocent victims."

Data released by the RTMC highlights a troubling trend among younger motorists. Drivers between the ages of 20 and 39 are statistically more likely to drive under the influence, contributing to a significant health and economic burden on the country. The agency noted that the carnage on South African roads is largely driven by human behaviour and negative attitudes, alongside vehicle and environmental factors.

Authorities reminded motorists that a drunk driving conviction is not just a legal hurdle—it is a life-altering event. Beyond the threat of imprisonment or heavy fines, a conviction:

• Stays on a criminal record for over 10 years.
• Severely hinders chances of entering the job market.
• Complicates applications for travel visas.
• Negatively impacts the ability to obtain vehicle insurance.

The RTMC’s message to the public is clear: the responsibility for road safety rests with each individual. "Drinking and driving is a criminal offence," the agency warned, urging South Africans to adopt the mantra #ItBeginsWithYou.

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There will be something of a Sharks reunion on Friday night in Edinburgh when the Sharks do battle with the Scots at the Hive Stadium.

Current Sharks coach JP Pietersen is up against a former Sharks coach in Edinburgh boss Sean Everitt; Everitt’s assistant coach Scott Mathie is finishing up at Edinburgh at the end of the URC and is joining Pietersen’s staff for the next season; and former Sharks utility forward Dylan Richardson is in the Edinburgh match-23.

When Pietersen was finishing up as a player, Everitt was coaching at the Sharks, so he could not know Everitt’s rugby views better.

“I played under Sean, so I know his philosophy and the way he thinks about the game,” Pietersen grinned during a media conference in the Scottish capital. “It will be weird going up against him.”

“On Scotty (Mathie), I played against him when he was the scrumhalf at Griquas, and he will be joining the Sharks as our attack coach. It’s exciting to match up against them in what will be a very interesting match because we know each other so well.”

Pietersen said that the Edinburgh side are renowned for their willingness to attack, but are not afraid to play the territory game.

“Edinburgh are very good with their kicking game, with their exits, and they’ve got a solid pack with Pierre Schoeman anchoring in the front row.

“They like to be physical, and they’ve got a good maul, so when they get into the 22, they can convert it into points.

“They’ve also got a good phase attack – they can hold the ball for long, and we have prepped for that. We have to be ready to defend for long periods.”

“As a defensive unit and a group, we know they’re going to try and move us around and maybe put the ball in behind to turn us. That will be one of the key factors.”

Pietersen has kept team changes to a minimum, with Makazole Mapimpi replacing the injured Ethan Hooker, André Esterhuizen moving to outside centre for injured Le Roux Malan, and Siya Masuku coming into the side at 12 for Esterhuizen.

“I did not want to make changes because it is a short week,” Pietersen said. “We don’t want to do any reshuffling or move players around too much. We want to keep the same combinations, which is why we stuck with what we finished with against the Ospreys.”

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi will make his comeback from a calf injury from the bench in what will be his 50th match for the Sharks.

“Siya is a special human, and we want to make it memorable for him tomorrow,” Pietersen said. “That’s a small thing we can do tomorrow as a group, so we’ll fight for him.”

Sharks: 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13, Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 12 Siya Masuku, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jean Smith, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Manu Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Phatu Ganyane.

Replacements: 16 Eduan Swart, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Siya Kolisi, 22 Bradley Davids, 23 Marnus Potgieter.

A minister, an MEC, and a Member of Parliament are among those contesting for positions in the DA in KwaZulu-Natal as the party heads to its elective congress in the coming weeks.

MP Mzamo Billy will face off against current deputy leader Sthembiso Ngema in the race for provincial leader. Meanwhile, MEC Martin Meyer will be running for deputy leader alongside Bradley Singh and a third candidate. Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson will contest for provincial chairperson against another candidate.

Meyer confirmed his candidacy, stating, “Yes, I am indeed running for deputy leader of the DA in KZN. It is a position that, in large part, supports the leader, but what I bring to the position is what I have brought in my department: governing by principles.

“More importantly, we will be going into coalition in municipalities after the local government elections. I think with my experience in government and in the coalition government, I can start now to help prepare our candidates and DA councillors for when they have to take over a troubled department, as I have had to do.

“With my experience, we are really there to give the party the necessary support, particularly in any coalition negotiations that need to happen after the elections. I have built good relationships with other parties and current partners, and after the election, I will continue building and facilitating with councillors,” said Meyer.

Singh highlighted several attributes, including his strength in ensuring that DA councillors are a key cog in improving service delivery. In a note to delegates, he said, “I will be a deputy leader who ensures that our councillors are not just messengers for the province, but empower leaders in their own right.”

Billy stated he was ready for the leadership role, saying, “I have entered this race because I believe the DA in KwaZulu-Natal is at a defining moment. My offer is clear: it’s to grow the DA across new communities while retaining our existing support, to unite our structures, and to position the party to win in an increasingly competitive environment.

“This election ultimately comes down to the kind of leadership the DA needs at this moment—leadership that is unifying, disciplined, and focused on building a stronger organisation capable of winning. That is the leadership I am offering,” Billy said.

Ngema expressed his objectives should he be elected, stating, “We need to grow the DA in areas where we are noticing slow growth, particularly in rural areas like Umkhanyakude, where we currently have one councillor. The fact of the matter is that the DA is known to everyone, and it is now time to grow the party.

“We will be engaging with traditional leaders, civic organisations, and church leaders as part of our efforts to give the party more platforms to grow. We are known as the party that delivers; the question is whether the people in rural areas feel that. If not, why not? It is time to ensure that everyone knows that the DA is for everyone, regardless of race or skin colour.”

Macpherson said he is running for the post as he intends to take the DA growth in the province to the next level. “I am running on a track record of taking the DA to the GPU and keeping it in the GPU.”

He said the next step is to ensure that the DA is the party that represents all South Africans. “I am grateful for all the support that I have received across the province.”

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Kaizer Chiefs’ co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef claims the team should be ready to challenge for the Betway Premiership next season after showing growth and structure this campaign.

Chiefs are set to finish third in the standings next month – their highest finish since they were runners-up in the 2019/2020 season.

That possibility, perhaps, wouldn’t have materialised if it weren’t for Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, who have turned detractors into admirers in recent weeks, enjoying a purple patch of five succesive wins and one draw in six league games.

Soweto Derby Press Conference

Coach Khalil, Petersen and Msimango represented Kaizer Chiefs at today's presser as the two Soweto Giants get ready for Sunday's already SOLD OUT clash at FNB Stadium.#Amakhosi4Life #SowetoDerby #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/OCv6nKNpg9

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) April 23, 2026

The duo could further endear themselves to the club faithful if they secure wins against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns in the next few days, starting in the Soweto derby at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off).

Ben Youssef is pleased with the recent run of form, so much so that he believes they could leave the jersey better than they found it as their future at the club remains uncertain.

“I think we’ve made it easier for continuity next season – whether we’ll be there or not,” said Ben Youssef at the Soweto derby pre-match press conference at The Venue in Johannesburg on Thursday. “The team will be there; the structure will also be there.

“I think next season the team will be able to fight for the league. As a team, we are focusing on ourselves, and we don’t have pressure.”

Ben Youssef has stressed the importance of keeping their foot firmly on the pedal and preparing well to face Pirates in the league.

“We always repeat in every press conference that we are taking each game as it comes and we have to win,” Ben Youssef said. “If the players are ready, we believe we will win the game.”

“The most important thing is that the players must be ready physically, tactically, technically and mentally to win on Sunday. If we are ready, we won’t worry about the opponent. We respect all teams, but we are only focusing on ourselves,” he added.

Star flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is set to bring up his 50th cap for the Stormers this Saturday, headlining a pivotal United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against the Glasgow Warriors in Cape Town.

The gifted playmaker, who made his debut in a URC quarter-final at DHL Stadium back in 2022, reaches the milestone in what is shaping up to be a must-win, top-of-the-table encounter (kick-off 1.45pm).

A lot is at stake for the Cape side as the play-offs draw ever closer. They can seal a quarter-final place with victory and leapfrog their opponents if they claim five points from the clash while denying the Warriors any.

In the backline, there is a notable reshuffle, with Damian Willemse returning at fullback and Wandisile Simelane slotting in on the right wing. The spotlight will also fall on young centre Markus Muller, who is poised to make his debut off the bench. In doing so, he will become one of the youngest players ever to represent the Stormers, joining Willemse as one of the few to earn a cap before turning 19.

Up front, several changes see fetcher Paul de Villiers, lock Ruben van Heerden, tighthead prop Neethling Fouché and hooker André-Hugo Venter all promoted to the starting pack. Replacement hooker JJ Kotzé and loose forward Keke Morabe are named on the bench, alongside loosehead Oli Kebble, tighthead Zach Porthen, loose forward Marcel Theunissen, scrumhalf Imad Khan, flyhalf Jurie Matthee and Muller.

John Dobson, director of rugby, said that the final home match of the round-robin stage will be a big one for his team in the context of their season.

#Stormers utility back Damian Willemse predicts big things for Markus Muller who is set to debut this weekend vs Glasgow in the #URC pic.twitter.com/K1dkmcHkHc

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) April 23, 2026

“With the play-offs getting closer all the time, it is important that we make the most of this opportunity to play at home in front of our fans. It has been a good week of training, and we are looking forward to seeing what the players coming into the mix can add in what is a crucial match against a strong Glasgow team,” he said.

Dobson said that Feinberg-Mngomezulu deserves all the plaudits he gets ahead of this milestone.

“There is a lot expected of Sacha, and he handles the pressure so well. He will be a key player in our squad for years to come, and hopefully we can make this match memorable for him.”

Stormers XV

15 Damian Willemse, 14 Wandisile Simelane, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Dan du Plessis, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Ruben van Heerden, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements: 16 JJ Kotzé, 17 Oli Kebble, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Marcel Theunissen, 20 Keke Morabe, 21 Imad Khan, 22 Jurie Matthee, 23 Markus Muller.

A motorist who was caught clocking a staggering 215 km/h in a 120 km/h zone was fined R50,000, as KwaZulu-Natal authorities vow to maintain a "zero-tolerance" approach to lawlessness on the province's roads.

Muhammeqqqqqd Khan appeared in the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court this week following his arrest on April 3, 2026 by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) Park Rynie team.

In a statement, KZN MEC for Transport and Human Settlements Siboniso Duma confirmed that Khan was sentenced to a R50,000 fine or 12 months imprisonment, with half of the sentence suspended for five years.

Duma hailed the conviction as a victory for the #NenzaniLaEzweni operation, an initiative aimed at curbing reckless driving and crime.

"Our message is very clear—nobody is above the law," Duma said. "We have in the past arrested well-known criminals, lawyers, engineers, doctors, police officers, and many other professionals. This shows our commitment to ensuring that the rules of the road apply to everyone equally."

As the province prepares for two upcoming long weekends, Duma announced that the RTI would be intensifying its efforts through the use of high-tech surveillance.

Patrol vehicles are now equipped with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, which allows officers to identify unroadworthy, unlicensed, or stolen vehicles in real-time during intelligence-driven roadblocks.

Furthermore, the department is deploying Crime Recognition Software to streamline the process of checking for outstanding fines, summonses, and warrants of arrest. The software will also allow officers to issue electronic fines on the spot.

"These operations, bolstered by Operation Shanela, will strengthen our ability to detect offenders," Duma added.

The rollout of this technology has received high-level backing from KZN Police Commissioner Lt General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, Minister of Justice Mmamoloko Kubayi, and the Director of Public Prosecutions in KZN, Adv Elaine Harrison.

Authorities have urged motorists to obey the speed limit and ensure their vehicles are road-legal as traffic volumes are expected to spike over the holiday period.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

The new online invoicing system implemented by the eThekwini Municipality to facilitate the payment of contractors has been blamed for payment delays that have triggered protests by contractors and threatened service delivery.

Sources within the municipality stated that the system was implemented in a “rush”, without complete training and the buy-in of the users.

The latest strike occurred on Monday when city contractors protested outside the City's revenue offices, complaining about non-payment; some claimed they had not been paid for three months. This was the second protest in the past few months by contractors over the same issue. The contractors involved in the protests have predominantly included workers from the electricity and water units.

However, city workers and councillors stated that the problem of non-payment extends far beyond just these two groups and affects more contractors in other departments.

“The issue here is not money. The city had the funds to pay. The issue here is this system; it was meant to ease the payment of invoices, but it has not been working properly. It was implemented without training for those who are supposed to use it, so there has not been much buy-in, and there is resistance to it.”

“For instance, someone who had been working for the city, who is used to submitting their invoices by hand, is now expected to submit the invoice through the system. This could lead to resistance; if they do not submit, they will not get paid, which could lead to further protests. “The fact is that the city should have implemented the system in a smaller department first, projected its effectiveness, gained buy-in from users, and then gradually rolled it out to other departments,” said the source. The official added that the system is part of the city's efforts to ensure a corruption-free environment but is being let down by its implementation.

One contractor from electricity, who was subcontracting from the main contractor, is now owed close to half a million rand as he has not been paid in three months. “I am not even the main contractor; I subcontract from the main contractor. I was able to pay my guys for one month because I had a surplus, but I have not been able to pay for the last two months. That is the difficult situation we are finding ourselves in because we have not been paid for months.”

DA councillor Thabani Ndlovu stated that the challenges are not limited to the Electricity and Water Services (EWS), and he has called for the mayor’s immediate intervention to ensure that contractors are paid promptly.

“The failure to pay contractors not only undermines trust but directly threatens service delivery and the functioning of critical municipal infrastructure,” he said.

EThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications director, Mandla Nsele, stated that the City is working to address the issue.

“The City would like to clarify that delays in payments to service providers are a result of the recent introduction of a new online invoicing system. This system requires all service providers to upload their invoices directly onto the platform.

“The initiative was implemented to strengthen compliance with legislative requirements, particularly the obligation to process payments within 30 days. All service providers are affected, as the requirement to upload invoices onto the system applies universally. At this stage, it is not feasible to quantify the rand value of outstanding invoices, as some have not yet been captured on the system,” he said.

He added that, to address the backlog, the City has deployed additional accounts payable staff to support line directorates in ensuring that invoices are uploaded onto the system.

“The City will also continue to provide ongoing training to service providers to assist them with accurate and efficient invoice capturing. Further measures include increasing staff capacity to support the uploading process, providing additional scanning resources, and implementing extended working hours, including weekends, to fast-track the capturing of invoices. Payments are also being processed daily to accelerate the clearance of the backlog.”

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The suspension of national police commissioner Fannie Masemola is an indication that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is deeply troubled. That is the view of some opposition parties following the precautionary suspension of General Masemola announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa yesterday.

The president also announced the appointment of Lieutenant-General Puleng Dimpane as acting national police commissioner. Ramaphosa said Dimpane had close to two decades of experience in the police service and was the divisional commissioner for financial management services. She recently testified at the Ad Hoc Committee investigating the allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.

The latest development comes after Masemola appeared at the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on four counts of violating the Public Finance Management Act. Reacting to Masemola’s suspension, opposition parties said the suspension is not enough and his fitness to hold office should be investigated.

Geordin Hill-Lewis, federal leader of the Democratic Alliance, welcomed the suspension of Masemola and the appointment of Dimpane.

“This is a necessary step to protect the integrity of the office and to ensure that SAPS can continue to function while due process takes its course. The DA has previously called for a board of inquiry into General Masemola’s fitness to hold office and reiterates that call now. Suspension alone is not enough. These serious allegations require full and proper scrutiny so that accountability is not delayed, diluted, or quietly avoided.”

“However, this also lays bare the deeply alarming state of SAPS senior management. South Africans now face the extraordinary reality that the Minister of Police, the national commissioner, and a deputy national commissioner have all been suspended or placed on leave. This is not a sign of a healthy police service; it is a sign of an institution in profound crisis at the highest level,” he said.

He added, “At a time when violent crime, gang activity, extortion, and organised criminal networks are terrorising communities across the country, public confidence in SAPS leadership has been badly damaged. South Africans cannot be expected to trust a police service when scandal, suspension, and allegations of corruption have become defining features of its senior command.”

ActionSA Member of Parliament Derleen James said the suspension of the Police Commissioner marks another indication of the growing instability obstructing law enforcement from fulfilling its most basic mandate to protect South Africa and its people.

“Today adds to a growing pattern of suspensions at the highest levels of law enforcement, including that of Police Minister Senzo Mchunu. While this suspension was widely expected, given the seriousness of the allegations faced by General Masemola, South Africans cannot be expected to accept a cycle of acting appointments.

“The continued reliance on ‘acting’ appointments in critical positions such as the minister of police and the national commissioner undermines stability within SAPS,” she said. She stated that ActionSA supports decisive action to protect the integrity of SAPS. However, these repeated reactive interventions point to a deeper failure of leadership and oversight. “This appointment must be to clean up the South African Police Service, not to frustrate or delay the work of this critical institution,” she said.

IFP chief whip in the National Assembly Nhlanhla Hadebe said the party extends the benefit of the doubt to Dimpane and trusts that she will discharge her duties with the utmost professionalism, impartiality, and diligence.

“However, we are compelled to raise serious concerns about the growing trend of key positions within the security cluster being occupied in an acting capacity. The concurrent presence of both an acting minister and an acting national commissioner signals a troubling lack of stability, continuity, and decisive leadership in a sector that is fundamental to national security and the fight against crime.

“At a time when South Africans are grappling with high levels of crime and insecurity, the country cannot afford uncertainty or weakened command at the highest levels of law enforcement. Acting appointments, by their very nature, are temporary and can undermine long-term strategic planning, accountability, and public confidence,” said Hadebe.

Political analyst Dirk Kotzé also expressed concerns about the acting police commissioner, pointing out that the matter for which Masemola had been suspended is the matter she would have been deeply involved in as someone who comes from the finance unit of SAPS.

“How she is going to avoid a situation where she is not implicated is something to see,” he said.

Nhlamulo Ndhlela of MK Party said it’s concerning that such a critical institution is led by people whose actions are questionable. He expressed doubt about the acting commissioner, questioning why she is not facing the charges Masemola is facing.

“By virtue of being the CFO, why is she not in the dock because bid adjudication committees are chaired by CFOs and make recommendations to the police commissioners?” he said.

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A judge frowned upon the conduct of a magistrate, sitting in a district court, which led to a KwaZulu-Natal homeowner losing her home, after the property worth R380,000 was sold on execution to her neighbour, as she was R13,914 behind on her levies.

Ngqondi Mfolozi had lost her employment, but once she secured a job, she offered to pay the arrears in levies back to the homeowner's association. This was denied and instead, she lost her home.

This emerged during an application before the Pietermaritzburg High Court, in which Mfolozi asked the court to set aside the sale of her Shelly Beach home.

The property was declared executable by the Port Shepstone Magistrate’s Court after the Farm Owners Association, Farm Estate in Shelly Beach, turned to the lower court. In October 2022, Mfolozi (applicant) was told she owed R13,914 in arrear levies.

When she said she could not pay as she had no job, the homeowner's association turned to the Port Shepstone Magistrate’s Court to attach her moveable assets.

Mfolozi did not respond to the summons, resulting in a default judgment being awarded against her. No moveable assets could be found, resulting in the magistrate declaring her property executable.

Unaware of these developments, Mfolozi emailed the attorney representing the homeowner’s association in 2024 to propose a settlement for the outstanding levy arrears, which had increased significantly by then, suggesting a monthly payment of R5,000. This offer was rejected.

Shortly afterwards, Mfolozi learned that her home had been sold under her nose to her neighbour. She only came to hear of this after she phoned him to enquire about his interest in purchasing it. He had earlier approached her with an offer to buy the property, which she had declined at that time. He told her that the property was sold to him in execution for R352,000.

Mfolozi argued that she did not receive any notification for sale of the property and said that the magistrate failed to correctly apply legal procedures when issuing an order declaring her property executable.

Judge Mbuzeni Mathenjwa commented that this case presents unique circumstances as the applicant’s immovable property, valued at R380,000, was declared executable by a district court to settle a debt of R13,914.93.

He also noted that there was no record in the court file of an application to declare this property executable. The homeowner's association responded that an application seeking to declare immovable property executable was included with their answering affidavit.

“The current case illustrates significant challenges in delivering justice in this court, stemming from what seems to be a blatant disregard for justice in the magistrate’s court,” Judge Mathenjwa said.

He questioned how a court exercising judicial authority would have considered an immovable property valued at R380,000 executable for settling an original debt of R13,914, when the applicant had proposed to pay off this debt.

There also remains uncertainty regarding whether the district court had jurisdiction to declare an immovable property executable when its value far exceeds the court’s monetary limits. The judge also pointed out that it is evident that there was no formal application in the first place for the execution of the property.

As there was no recorded explanation as to what had happened in the lower court, he suspended the transfer of the property to the neighbour for three months for the applicant to take the matter back to the lower court for the magistrate to explain his order.

zelda.venter@inl.co.za

A calming wave of positivity is sweeping over Kaizer Chiefs ahead of this weekend's Soweto derby, visible not only in the team's mindset but also in the composure of co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef.

Ben Youssef captured attention at the pre-match press conference on Thursday afternoon ahead of the clash against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at The Venue in Johannesburg.

Breaking from the traditional club attire or suit worn by his counterpart, Pirates’ Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Tunisian coach arrived resplendent in semi-formal wear: a light-brown two-piece, a crisp white shirt, and sneakers.

His relaxed appearance mirrored the club's recent upswing in form, which has seen Chiefs hit a purple patch, securing five wins and one draw in their last six matches to occupy a crucial top-three position so far.

This stability at the club's plush Naturena base comes at an ideal time as they prepare for the biggest match in the local sporting calendar, where both three points and bragging rights are at stake. 

Compounding the pressure is the memory of the embarrassing 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture. However, Ben Youssef insists their fortunes will be different this time, even though Pirates will be tough hosts amid their title aspirations.

“Now, there’s a big difference between the first and second derby,” Ben Youssef stated. “Every team has been performing well in the last six or seven games. We are coming from six games – five wins and one draw.

“I think it’s not for me to speak about the performance of Pirates, from the start of the season. They had a very good performance with coach Abdeslam. I think on the day of the derby, the team that makes fewer mistakes will be ready to challenge.”

Ben Youssef attributed their purple patch, which has brought a balance between good performances and results after earlier struggles, to squad consistency.

“We were unlucky that we had a lot of injuries. The difficult thing for a job is that when you have injuries, you have to make substitutions and you don’t have consistency,” he explained.

“Now in the last five or six games, it’s been relatively the same squad. When the consistency is there, the performance and the results are there. Unfortunately, we missed a lot of chances and points. The performance was good, but we didn’t score. But we found balance in the last two games.

“We’ve got the energy, and the vibe. All the players are ready and fit; they are sending a strong message that they are ready – mentally, fitness and training wise in the last three weeks. We are ready to win this game, Inshallah.”

The team’s improved form has even swayed former critics, including former coach Muhsin Ertugral, who previously questioned the coaching duo but has now backed Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze to continue beyond the current term.

“I have to thank him, and everyone who has given us the trust to continue to lead the team,” Ben Youssef responded to the public support. “It was not easy to be given this opportunity. We have been getting a lot of criticism, but for us is to continue to work.

“We are professional coaches. We want to continue with our work until the end of the season, and then the board will decide (whether we stay or go).”

Buoyed by fan support, the co-coach revealed they are determined to repay the faith shown in them by securing a derby win – a feat Chiefs have not achieved in five successive league matches.

“We don’t have fans, but family,” Ben Youssef said. “So, it’s for us to go out there, and give back to them. We need to keep fighting.”

Kruger United are aggressively knocking on the door of the Betway Premiership, while PSL top-flight teams such as Orbit College, Marumo Gallants, and Magesi FC risk relegation and losing their R50 million value.

Kruger have been on a phenomenal roll in the Motsepe Foundation Championship (MFC) over the last few weeks, winning six games on the trot to climb to the top of the standings with 52 points — five ahead of second-placed Cape Town City.

Kruger’s ascension has not been a fluke, highlighted by their recent victory against fellow challengers City. They are expected to carry this momentum right through to the last day of the season. The promotion of Kruger to the elite division would be widely welcomed, particularly as they are only three years old and are in their second season in the professional set-up after being promoted in 2024 from the third tier.

The people of Mpumalanga would be thrilled, as they would then have two teams in the top flight alongside TS Galaxy, who have already won a trophy and are in this season's Nedbank Cup final.

#MotsepeFoundationChampionship - RESULTS:

Kruger United, Hungry Lions and Venda Football Club secure victories in today’s action. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/PNHZc4GYwh

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) April 22, 2026

The resurgence of Kruger is driving the MFC title race, requiring City, Hungry Lions, and Casric Stars to be at their best in the last five games of the season to finish second and third, securing a promotion play-off spot.

While the promotion race heats up the second-tier division, Orbit, Gallants, and Magesi still stand a chance of completely avoiding the relegation quagmire by finishing 14th or higher. At the moment, Magesi holds that precious 14th spot. Their turnaround was inspired by an impressive 5-2 win over Durban City in their last game, lifting them off the foot of the standings.

Prior to that possible lifeline, Dikela Tsa Meetse looked "dead and buried" at the foot of the log, with coach Allan Freese admitting he was running out of solutions while trying to fix their defence.

Magesi will be eager to continue their turnaround by steering themselves into calmer waters when they meet a beleaguered TS Galaxy — who have lost nine and drawn one of their last 10 games — at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm).

Meanwhile, Gallants, who were drawn into the relegation quagmire after sacking coach Alexandre Lafitte and replacing him with Jamil Benouahi due to a poor run of form, are eager to find some momentum in their last few matches.

Benouahi, who recently started his tenure with a goalless draw against arch-rivals Siwelele, will seek his first win when they visit a coach-less Sekhukhune United at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday afternoon (5.30pm).

Largely, the onus is on Orbit to ensure they secure maximum points in their next league clash against Durban City at Chatsworth Stadium on Friday night (7.30pm). Failure to do so would drag them closer to the second-tier division after just one season in the top flight.

Proteas Women’s batter Laura Wolvaardt has long been considered the technical standard-bearer of South African cricket, but at the Wanderers on Wednesday night, she showed she can mix her classical elegance with destructive power.

In a record-breaking T20 International against India Women, Wolvaardt’s (115 off 53 balls) magnificent century anchored a historic chase, proving that the Proteas captain has mastered the balance of "keeping her shape" while being able to clear the ropes.

Wolvaardt and Sune Luus combined for a record 183-run partnership to complete the highest-ever run chase by a South African team, which also sealed the series against India in the third T20I at the Wanderers.

Chasing a daunting 191, Wolvaardt hit the ground running with a freedom that dictated the tempo of the innings. While she recently celebrated completing her university degree, a milestone she described as "satisfying" after years of balancing textbooks while travelling with the Proteas Women, this performance was a masterclass in her day job.

"I knew we had to start well chasing 190," Wolvaardt said during the post-match press conference. "I sort of just had freedom in that power play to strike it nicely, and then just kept going."

What made the innings particularly special was Wolvaardt’s evolution as a power hitter. Known for her picturesque cover drive, she has spent the last two years intentionally adding muscle to her game. However, she remains wary of losing the technical foundations that make her so consistent.

"It’s something I’ve been working on quite a lot ... finding the balance between trying to whack it and still keeping my cover drive and the way that I play," she explained. "Sometimes I lose it a bit, try to hit it a bit too hard, and lose my shape. But I feel like I found the balance nicely tonight to still keep my shape and hit some big shots."

Her partnership with Luus (64 not out from 42 balls) was pivotal. While Wolvaardt dominated the strike early on, Luus’ ability to "hang in there" and eventually notch a quick-fire fifty provided the stability required to clinch the series victory. Wolvaardt noted that the pair understands each other’s games perfectly, allowing them to remain calm even as the required run rate climbed.

Despite a "scratchy" performance in the field from the Proteas, which Wolvaardt attributed to the “big stadium and big lights” of the Wanderers and the way the ball travels in the Highveld compared to Durban, the batting unit looked revitalised.

Wolvaardt credited batting coach Baakier Abrahams’ influence, noting his calm demeanour and "pumping her tyres in the nets" to improve her game.

"Yesterday, in my training session, I literally just hit cover drives on the floor, because I feel like if my positioning is good in that, then the rest of the game will take care of itself," she added.

The fourth T20 in the five-match series will be played on Saturday (6pm start) at the Wanderers.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has condemned the killing of seven members of the Monswamy family, describing the attack as “barbaric” and a stark reminder of the province’s ongoing battle with violent crime.

The premier’s remarks form part of a wave of reactions following the incident in which seven family members were abducted from their home in Newtown, Newark, under the Mandeni Local Municipality, and later killed in Melmoth.

“This is a deeply painful and tragic incident that has robbed families of their loved ones in the most cruel and inhumane manner,” Ntuli said yesterday.

He said the provincial government stood in solidarity with the bereaved family and would continue to prioritise interventions aimed at improving community safety.

Ntuli also pointed to the indiscriminate nature of the attack, which included both younger and elderly victims, as evidence of the severity of the crime.

The deceased include three men and four women. According to Post newspaper, they have been identified as Allen Monswamy, 52, his wife Sandy, 57, their children Kraidon, 26, and Shamaria, 20, and relatives Gonosagren Padayachee, 51, Mooniamma Padayachee, 78 and Mariama Happanah, 83.

Police have since arrested three suspects in connection with the killings. According to police, the family were abducted from their home on Tuesday night and taken to Melmoth. Several bank transfers were made from the victims' accounts throughout Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. The victims were shot or stabbed to death. It is believed that one of the suspects had previously worked for the family.

Ntuli welcomed the arrests of the suspects.

“We commend SAPS for acting decisively and swiftly in apprehending suspects. This demonstrates the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating this matter and sends a clear message that criminality will not be tolerated,” he said.

He further called on communities to play a role in crime prevention by working with police and refusing to shield those involved in criminal activity.

“Those who commit such heinous acts often live among us. It is our collective responsibility to isolate them, report them to the police, and ensure that our communities are safe,” Ntuli said.

Meanwhile, local councillor Kuben Naicker told East Coast Radio Newswatch that residents in the area remain shaken following the incident.

He added that the victims were well-known and respected in the area.

“The Monswamy family is very respected in the community, and that is why the community is so angry about this. I knew him personally. He is a businessman,” Naicker said.

The premier is expected to visit the family of the deceased on Friday.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane as the acting National police commissioner following the precautionary suspension of General Fannie Masemola.

This comes after Masemola appeared in court earlier this week on four counts linked to alleged violations of the Public Finance Management Act.

Addressing the nation from the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Thursday flanked by acting police minister Firoz Cachalia and Dimpane, Ramaphosa said it was vital that the public has trust in the people that the government has appointed.

"In consideration of the seriousness of these charges, I have agreed with General Fannie Masemola that he be deemed to be on precautionary suspension pending the conclusion of the case," said Ramaphosa.

Ramaphosa said Dimpane had close to two decades of experience in the police service and was the divisional commissioner for financial management services.

“She has extensive experience in policing, financial management and governance. She has a reputation for professionalism as well as integrity.”

He added that a key area of focus would be dealing with procurement weaknesses in the SAPS supply chain management systems.

He said he would not be appointing a commission of inquiry into Masemola's fitness to hold office and instead would let the legal process run its course.

In response to questions from the media, Ramaphosa said it may be argued that there were too many people in acting positions but they had to deal with the issues at hand. 

“It would have been irresponsible not to fill the position,” he added.

He said that he was confident that the senior management of the police would support Dimpane. 

“They will all rally behind General Dimpane, support her and work with her. We will up the tempo, when it comes to fighting crime.”

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

Sharks coach JP Pietersen was a picture of diplomacy when he answered questions from the media regarding the controversies from last week’s defeat to the Ospreys — the Ethan Hooker late tackle and the uncontested scrums.

Pietersen is in Edinburgh where his team end their United Rugby Championship tour with a match against the Scottish team coached by one of Pietersen’s predecessors, Sean Everitt, and assisted by former Sharks scrumhalf Scott Mathie, who next season will be Pietersen’s attack coach.

Pietersen confirmed the bad news about Hooker’s dislocated shoulder.

“He’s seen the surgeon, but I can’t give an exact timeline of how long he will be out for,” Pietersen said. “He’ll probably go for surgery this week, and then we’ll know more once they’ve opened up the shoulder.”

Typically, this type of injury requires up to four months of rehabilitation, putting Hooker in serious doubt for a role in the Springboks’ Nations Cup matches in July.

Last Saturday night, Pietersen’s management team submitted a report to the match citing commissioner but were told that the ruling was “no foul play” by Ospreys wing Luke Morgan.

“We had a conversation with the head of referees,” Pietersen said. “It is what it is. It’s out of my control. It’s for the referees to decide.”

The unfairness of the late tackle is one thing, another is the loss of one of the best Sharks attackers for Friday’s match. And this has been compounded by the injuries in the Ospreys game suffered by centres Le Roux Malan and Jurenzo Julius, resulting in the extreme action of moving flyhalf Siya Masuku to inside centre and pushing Andre Esterhuizen out to 13.

The last quarter of the Ospreys game collapsed into farce when the Welsh club claimed they had no more fit props, forcing the scrums to be uncontested. At the end of the match, a fuming Pietersen had to choose his words carefully. He said,

“To be honest, that is a question mark. We don’t know whether there were injuries or the Ospreys were taking the contest away from us.”

But on Thursday, Pietersen was more measured: “We had a review meeting with the URC. It’s always a confidential discussion, but we got clarity on what happened.

“They investigated it and gave us feedback. We asked our questions, we got answers, and now we move on.”

Pietesen has kept his starting pack of forwards intact for the Scarlets game, meaning Bok props Ox Nche and Vincent Koch will once again play off the bench a surprise to many.

“It is a short week (a Friday game) and I want to keep disruptions to a minimum. I have only made changes where necessary,” Pietersen explained.

Sharks: 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 12 Siya Masuku, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jean Smith, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Manu Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Phatu Ganyane. Replacements: 16 Eduan Swart, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Siya Kolisi, 22 Bradley Davids, 23 Marnus Potgieter.

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef insists the team will approach the upcoming Soweto derby against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates "like any other game," arguing that maintaining focus is key to their season plans.

Chiefs will visit Pirates at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon (3pm kick-off). The derby is high-stakes, as Pirates are chasing the Betway Premiership title while Chiefs look to secure a crucial top-three finish.

Soweto Derby Press Conference

Coach Khalil, Petersen and Msimango represented Kaizer Chiefs at today's presser as the two Soweto Giants get ready for Sunday's already SOLD OUT clash at FNB Stadium.#Amakhosi4Life #SowetoDerby #AlwaysHome pic.twitter.com/OCv6nKNpg9

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) April 23, 2026

A thrilling contest is further expected, as both teams are in form. Chiefs have won five and drawn one of their last six matches, while Pirates have recorded three wins and two draws in their last five outings. With Chiefs also eager to avenge an embarrassing 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture, they are expected to give Pirates a run for their money.

Ben Youssef, however, is not getting carried away by the idea that a derby victory will be the team’s turning point this season. He insists they will respect the occasion but remain focused on their usual game plan and chasing the three points.

"It’s only three points,” Ben Youssef said at the official pre-match press conference at The Venue, Johannesburg, on Thursday afternoon. “If we beat Orlando Pirates, will they give us the title or six points? It won’t change anything major.

“For us, it’s a league game. Yes, it’s the derby – there’ll be one team in Soweto, us or them. But it’s still the league game. Our target has been clear from the first day of the season: we take each game as it comes.

“We don’t have to change our targets by winning one game, and start discussing winning the league. Or you lose one game, and start destroying everything.”

Chris Smith may be an unsung hero in the context of South African flyhalves but his Lions teammates know just how valuable his experience and calm head are to their United Rugby Championship (URC) campaign.

Ahead of a defining home clash on Saturday afternoon (4pm kick-off) against Connacht, as they look to secure a Top 4 spot before travelling for the final two games, the Ellis Park side will once again be counting on their points machine to steer them to victory.

Currently leading the league’s points-scoring charts with 135, Smith is the glue in the Lions’ backline in the No 10 jersey and will look to maintain his golden touch. The Johannesburg outfit will aim to make it six wins in a row when they take on the high-flying Irish club.

Captain Francke Horn told Independent Media that Smith has been an invaluable cog in their system. His level-headedness has guided them to some excellent victories. Last weekend, the flyhalf converted seven of the eight tries scored in a 52-12 rout of the Glasgow Warriors.

“Chris brings great calm and a level of maturity to the team,” Horn said of his general.

“I mean, he has played in big play-offs before for different teams. He has seen this game and picture several times. For a senior guy to come here and slot in just like that is absolutely massive for the team. He is taking the side forward on and off the field with his leadership and accurate kicking boot.

“You can see his influence in the way he is playing and how we are playing. He is a big asset to us, and it is our job around him to ensure he is as comfortable as possible (going forward).”

One thing that stands out for Horn is how Smith has adapted to the players around him. He slotted in seamlessly alongside Springbok scrumhalf Morné van den Berg, Nico Steyn and youngster Haashim Pead on his inside.

The Lions have also had a couple of different inside centres outside him, most recently Bronson Mills and Richard Kriel, but despite the changes, they know they can always depend on their No 10, no matter who is alongside him.

“I think that is part of his calmness and maturity. He knows the players he has on his inside and outside, even when they change from week to week. Chris understands what each one can give him, and he ensures they are on the same wavelength to gel on the pitch and take the team forward.”

As the Top 8 race reaches its pinnacle in a couple of weeks, the Lions will look more to their calm flyhalf when they take on Connacht this weekend, and a couple more Irish powerhouses away from home in the final two league games of the season.

The Bulls are in the home straight after nearly a month on the road, and coach Johan Ackermann has praised his captain, Marcell Coetzee, for his role in keeping the team morale high and for inspiring last week’s defeat of the Dragons.

Coetzee was an easy choice for Player of the Match after leading from the front in the 47-7 win.

“I can just credit Marcell,” Ackermann said. “He has been so good for us in the past few weeks, both on and off the field.

"The way he has led the team and the way he challenges the guys and encourages them ... Against the Dragons, the amount of work he got through, and how he put his body on the line, was tremendous.

“He led by example for us when our backs were against the wall in a tight first half. Those are the moments you need your leaders to stand up, and he did that. Credit to him, and hopefully that form will continue for the rest of the season.”

The Bulls have been in Europe since playing the Glasgow Warriors in a Champions Cup match on 4 April. They spent time in the south of France rather than returning to Pretoria, and prepared there for the vital URC encounter with the Dragons.

Ackermann also praised Coetzee for a strong halftime team talk that saw the players tighten up their approach and play to the strength of their forwards. The Bulls went from 12-7 up at the break to scoring 40 unanswered points in the second half.

The Bulls are eighth on the URC log, and a win in Llanelli will strengthen their chances of qualifying for the quarter-finals, especially because their final two matches are in Pretoria against struggling Benetton and Zebre.

The Scarlets’ only win in their last six URC matches was the 36-17 victory over Zebre in Round 13. The Welsh side have lost their last four URC clashes with South African opponents since beating the Lions in May 2025.

The Bulls’ only loss in their last seven URC matches was 19-32 to Stormers on 14 March.

The Bulls have won their last five matches against Welsh opposition since the Scarlets beat them at Parc y Scarlets in October 2024.

The dream of Formula 1 engines roaring on South African soil is still alive, according to the Minister of Sports Gayton McKenzie. And now he is ready to haul out the "big guns" to convince the sport’s big wigs to bring the global circus to Africa.

In a press briefing held in Johannesburg on Thursday, McKenzie revealed that the bid now carries the full weight of the highest office in the land. The latest development sees a strategic shift toward high-level diplomacy, with President Cyril Ramaphosa set to take a front-seat role in negotiations.

“His excellency, Cyril Ramaphosa, has agreed to join me at one Grand Prix later this year. This is a working visit, not a social one. Its purpose is to support South Africa’s ambition to bring Formula One back to the African continent for the first time since our country became a democracy,” McKenzie said.

“F1 was here, but during Apartheid. F1 has not been on African soil in three decades. In that time the sport has returned to the Middle East, Asia, the Americas — every continent except for Africa. That is not acceptable and sustainable,” he noted.

Addressing the technical requirements, McKenzie assured that the government is working methodically to meet the commercial, logistical, infrastructural, and safety criteria demanded by Liberty Media and the FIA.

However, McKenzie did not provide a definitive timeline on Thursday. He recently admitted in a television interview: “Next year, definitely not.

"We have underestimated what is required to host an F1 event. But F1 has held our hand. Now we’ve got the experts and are putting together a bid they can’t refuse.”

The most intriguing aspect of the current bid process is the internal competition between the nation’s two biggest hubs. While many expected the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit in Midrand to be the default choice, Cape Town’s successful hosting of a Formula E race has positioned the Mother City as a formidable alternative. Kyalami has already begun a costly process to upgrade its track to meet FIA Grade 1 standards.

“There are two very strong bids between Gauteng and Cape Town. So no decision has been taken about where it will happen,” McKenzie confirmed. “We might take both bids to F1 because it’s their product and they will tell us what they favour.”

Major South African retailers have moved to initiate punitive legal and financial proceedings against suppliers linked to a harrowing “sweatshop” operation in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. 

In February, a coordinated inspection blitz in Newcastle’s textile and clothing industry in KwaZulu-Natal has uncovered widespread labour and immigration violations, resulting in the arrest of two Chinese employers and the discovery of 34 undocumented foreign workers.

According to recent reports, the companies have said they are blacklisting non-compliant factories and launching an urgent auditing blitz across their provincial supply chains to terminate business with any unregistered entities.

However, Fachmy Abrahams, the National Collective Bargaining Officer for the South African Clothing & Textile Workers Union (SACTWU), argued that these remedial steps are decades overdue.

Speaking on the matter, Abrahams said the issue was not new. He said it had been a topic of discussion with retailers for several years.

He noted that the current exploitation specifically targets undocumented migrants because their lack of legal papers leaves them with no recourse.

"These very vulnerable people who come for no fault of their own, to try to find a better life, are being abused because they have no recourse," Abrahams explained. "They feel that they can't go to the authorities because they are undocumented."

The recent investigation by the Department of Employment and Labour confirmed that unscrupulous employers deliberately hide workers in appalling conditions to avoid detection.

Abrahams described the living and working quarters found on-site as being at levels where "some of us won’t let our animals live in," noting that workers are trapped by their own vulnerability.

For more stories from The Mercury, click on the link THE MERCURY

The wait for the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in South African football is finally reaching its endgame.

After years of contentious refereeing decisions and growing public outcry, VAR could be set to arrive in the coming weeks, according to the Minister of Sports Gayton McKenzie.

The implementation of the system is no small undertaking, with reports suggesting a significant financial commitment from the government. The initial setup is estimated to cost between R70 million and R80m as a one-off expense, with a recurring operational cost of approximately R70 000 per match thereafter.

It is a price tag aimed at bringing South African football in line with global standards and restoring faith in the officiating of the domestic game. For McKenzie, the push for VAR was not just a policy decision but a response to a relentless public demand.

“Wherever I go in the shopping centres and at football matches, people ask me where is VAR?” McKenzie joked, during a press briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday.

McKenzie revealed that the South African Football Association (Safa) is now on the verge of announcing the successful service provider. The rollout is expected to move rapidly, with the hardware being installed at key stadiums across the country before the end of the current season.

“Safa is on the verge of announcing the chosen supplier for the technology. We have been assured that the installation for the equipment for the chosen locations will be done in the next few weeks, and it will be followed by specialised training for technicians and referees,” McKenzie said.

While the financial hurdles have been cleared, the focus now shifts to the technical execution. The training of referees and match officials remains a critical step to avoid the teething problems seen in European leagues. However, McKenzie was firm in noting that the ministry’s work is done; the ball is now firmly in Safa’s court.

“We have given the money. We can do nothing anymore. Safa told us in the next few weeks they will roll it out. We have kept our word and it’s in their hands,” McKenzie added.

South Africa’s hiring landscape is entering a new phase, one where external economic pressure is beginning to shape internal workforce decisions in unexpected ways. As costs rise and uncertainty persists, businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain the right talent.

Fuel price increases: a direct driver of recruitment complexity

Recent fuel price adjustments in South Africa, driven by escalating global oil prices, shipping costs and currency volatility, have pushed both petrol and diesel costs upward. While this places immediate pressure on transport-heavy sectors such as logistics, warehousing and field services, the knock-on effects extend much further into the talent market.

At a practical level, fuel costs influence the true cost of employment for both employers and employees.

For candidates, higher fuel prices mean:

• Increased daily commuting expenses
• Reduced disposable income
• Greater scrutiny of job offers based on location and travel requirements

For employers, this introduces a new layer of complexity, where traditional recruitment approaches may no longer align with evolving workforce priorities.

Recruitment challenges driven by rising fuel costs 

What was once a background cost is now influencing candidate behaviour, hiring timelines and overall workforce strategy for any recruitment agency.

More cost-sensitive job acceptance decisions

One of the most immediate effects is a shift in how candidates evaluate job offers. Salary is no longer the only deciding factor. Candidates are carefully considering whether a role is financially viable once commuting costs are included. Positions that require long-distance travel or full-time office attendance will become less appealing, even when the salary is competitive. This will likely result in longer hiring cycles and an increase in declined offers.

Rising salary expectations linked to commuting costs

Another key challenge is the growing gap between candidate expectations and employer budgets. As the cost of getting to work increases, employees are expecting compensation that reflects these real-world expenses. For organisations already managing tight financial conditions, this places additional pressure on salary structures and hiring decisions.

Shifting workplace expectations toward flexibility

Flexible work is no longer just about work-life balance. It is increasingly driven by cost pressures. Employees continue to prioritise hybrid and remote work, with flexibility ranking as a key factor in job decisions.

In 2026, rising fuel and commuting costs are reinforcing this trend. Candidates are placing greater value on roles that reduce travel expenses, making hybrid work a practical financial consideration rather than just a lifestyle preference.

For employers, this presents a clear challenge, as organisations that cannot offer flexibility, particularly in on-site roles, risk struggling to attract and retain talent in an increasingly cost-conscious labour market.

For HR professionals and business leaders, the message is clear. Recruitment must become more strategic, flexible and responsive to real-world cost pressures. 

The growing importance of recruitment partners

The organisations that will succeed in 2026 are those that can adapt quickly, hire smarter and stay flexible in the face of constant change.

This is where partnering with an expert recruitment agency like Greys Recruitment, part of the MASA group, becomes a strategic advantage. With over four decades of experience in the South African market, Greys understands the real-world challenges businesses are facing right now, from shrinking talent pools and rising salary pressures to delayed hiring decisions and workforce instability.

Through a comprehensive suite of services including permanent and temporary placements, contract staffing, payroll solutions, as well as HR and IR support, Greys enables businesses to build agile, cost-effective workforce strategies that respond to today’s realities.

Whether you need to fill critical roles faster, manage workforce fluctuations, or reduce the risk and cost associated with hiring. Greys Recruitment provides the expertise, reach and flexibility to make it happen.

South Africa’s industrial and logistics sectors rely on precision and reliability. From food production and pharmaceutical distribution to manufacturing and mining, countless operations depend on temperature control and safe handling of sensitive goods.

In this environment, dry ice has become an essential resource.

Companies like Dry Ice International play a vital role behind the scenes. By supplying high-quality dry ice products along with specialised equipment and expertise, the company supports industries that keep the country’s economy moving.

Powering cold chain logistics

Maintaining the cold chain is one of the most critical challenges in modern logistics. Perishable products such as food, pharmaceuticals and medical supplies must remain within strict temperature ranges while travelling long distances. Even a short temperature fluctuation can lead to spoilage or product loss.

Dry ice offers a highly effective solution. Because it is the solid form of carbon dioxide and sublimates directly from solid to gas, it delivers powerful cooling without leaving behind liquid residue. This makes it ideal for transport containers, insulated packaging and temperature-sensitive shipments.

Dry Ice International supplies dry ice in several forms including pellets, blocks and slices, allowing logistics operators to choose the most suitable option for their packaging systems. 

While pellets are often used for shipping and cooling applications, larger blocks provide longer-lasting temperature control for extended journeys.

For industries transporting vaccines, laboratory samples or fresh produce, this level of reliability helps protect both product quality and business reputation.

Supporting industrial cleaning and maintenance

Beyond refrigeration, dry ice also plays a growing role in industrial cleaning. Dry ice blasting, a process that uses compressed air to propel dry ice pellets at high speed, removes contaminants from surfaces without damaging equipment.

This method is particularly valuable in manufacturing environments where machinery cannot easily be disassembled. Unlike water-based cleaning systems, dry ice blasting produces no secondary waste such as wastewater or chemical residue. The dry ice simply sublimates on contact.

Dry Ice International provides both dry ice supplies and blasting equipment, enabling companies to maintain machinery more efficiently while reducing downtime. Industries ranging from food processing and automotive manufacturing to printing and electrical maintenance rely on this technique to keep production lines running smoothly.

Strengthening supply chains across South Africa

South Africa’s logistics environment stretches across vast distances. Products move from agricultural regions to urban centers, from factories to ports, as well as from laboratories to hospitals. Reliable supply partners therefore become essential in the face of the evolving logistics environment that demand greater practicality, reliability and adaptability.

Dry Ice International has built its operations around this need. By producing and distributing dry ice across the country, the company sees that businesses have access to cooling and cleaning solutions when they need them most. 

Consistent availability helps logistics providers plan shipments with confidence while supporting industries that operate on tight timelines.

At the same time, dry ice solutions help reduce product waste. When goods arrive at their destination in optimal condition, companies avoid financial losses while protecting valuable resources.

Driving efficiency through practical innovation

While dry ice may seem simple at first glance, its applications continue to evolve. As industries search for more efficient ways to transport goods and manage temperature-sensitive processes, the demand for reliable dry ice solutions continues to grow.

Dry Ice International stands at the centre of this ecosystem. Through dependable supply and specialised equipment alongside practical industry knowledge, the company supports businesses that rely on precision cooling and advanced cleaning technologies.

In many ways, the role of dry ice remains invisible to the public. But across South Africa’s smart warehouse and distribution networks, it powers the systems that keep essential industries moving forward.

If you love halaal certified dining that brings together Indian and Pakistani flavours with a wide fusion menu, My Diners is a strong option.

The family restaurant group started as a small takeaway in 1996 and has grown into a popular chain in South Africa, especially in Durban and Johannesburg.

It is known for offering a mix of traditional dishes and broader comfort food in a casual, family-focused setting.

The Pavilion Mall branch was busy when we visited at around 1pm, with a steady flow of customers and a full dining area. My friend and I were served a variety of dishes and mocktails that reflected the range that the menu is known for.

We started with chicken tikka, marinated in Diner’s special masala. The chicken was tender and well-cooked, with spice that builds gradually without overwhelming the meat.

It had a smoky finish that made it work well as both a starter and part of a shared table.

The butter chicken stood out and was served with a kandhari giant naan. The sauce was rich and creamy, with a texture that paired well with the soft naan.

It was easy to scoop and balance with the curry. This was the best butter chicken that I have had in a restaurant setting, with flavour that felt steady and well-developed rather than heavy.

We also tried the Desi wraps, including tandoori chicken and kebab made with mince and special spices, served with chips.

Both wraps were well seasoned and held together well, keeping the fillings intact while still delivering flavour in each bite. The chips added a familiar side that worked with the wraps without taking away from them.

The brand is also known for its wide menu that includes Indian and Pakistani dishes such as biryani and karahi, alongside Chinese-inspired dishes like chow mein and manchurian sizzlers, as well as pizza, steaks and toasted sandwiches.

Bunny chow and seafood platters are also part of the offering, which adds to the variety that draws families and groups.

We also had mocktails that were refreshing and not overly sweet.

They complemented the meal without overpowering it and offered a light finish between the richer dishes.

Overall, the food is consistent and well prepared with generous portions and a wide range of flavours.

It is a place that works well for groups looking for variety in a relaxed and busy setting.

Phone on flight mode and watching a series or two on TV will be the downtime for Hong Kong SVNS Player of the Final Tristan Leyds as the Blitzboks look to reset for the next SVNS World Championship tournament.

Leyds, alongside former captain Selvyn Davids, played a defining role for the Springbok Sevens as they claimed a first-ever Hong Kong title on the 50th anniversary of the tournament. He scored a brilliant try while also assisting a couple more in the 35-7 rout.

After taking one step closer to retaining their World Championship crown, Leyds said it is all about resetting ahead of the next leg in Valladolid, Spain, next month.

"It’s just about putting the phone on flight mode and getting some rest, staying on the couch and watching some series," Leyds said of his plans over the next week.

Head coach Philip Snyman said he will be giving his troops time off before they reconvene to begin preparations for the Spain trip. They had to complete their Schengen visas on Thursday before heading into a well-deserved break.

“We have a couple of days off before returning to training, and I know there are some guys hungry to take our spots. It is about getting back to zero, hitting the gym, and knowing they’ll give us a run for our money at training.

“I spoke to one of the guys, and I told him it’s time for him to show the world what he can do. He’s the one keeping me on my toes and helping me to flourish.”

According to Leyds, receiving the Player of the Final award was a special moment, amplified by winning the tournament in its 50th year. He added that the award could easily have gone to Davids for his two tries and overall contribution.

“I think it was a tough one between Selvyn and me; he had a monster of a game.

“In one of our last scrums, if he had managed to get the ball, he would’ve gone through for his hat-trick, and then the award might have gone a different way. The guys inside and outside of me allowed me to flourish, and they made me look good.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi will make his comeback from a calf injury in the Sharks’ United Rugby Championship (URC) visit to Edinburgh on Friday night, their final away match of the season.

Kolisi will play off the bench in what will be his 50th cap for the Sharks.

That is the good news; the bad news is that the Sharks have run out of centres following the injuries to Le Roux Malan and Jurenzo Julius, while last week’s left wing (and centre cover), Ethan Hooker, was also injured in the match against the Ospreys.

As an emergency measure, coach JP Pietersen has had to bring (flyhalf) Siya Masuku in at inside centre and shift captain Andre Esterhuizen to 13. Makazole Mapimpi replaces Hooker on the wing.

Teenage sensation Zekhethelo Siyaya remains at fullback after his breakthrough debut against the Ospreys, and he can only benefit from having the Bok captain alongside him later in the game.

The only backline substitutes are scrumhalf Bradley Davids and utility back Marnus Potgieter.

Elsewhere, Pietersen has maintained continuity — the forward pack is the same as last week, meaning the coach is once more opting for the tactic of playing Springbok strongmen Ox Nche and Vincent Koch off the bench.

This worked last week against the Ospreys — until the game descended into the farce of uncontested scrums because of injuries to the Welsh props. Many critics will be surprised that this week Pietersen is not starting with his strongest props.

The Sharks have a faint hope of making the URC Top 8, but will have to harvest a full house of log points before heading home to play Italian teams Benetton and Zebre.

Sharks team v Edinburgh

Sharks starting XV: 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13, Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 12 Siya Masuku, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jean Smith, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Manu Tshituka, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Phepsi Buthelezi, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Hanro Jacobs, 2 Fez Mbatha, 1 Phatu Ganyane; Replacements: 16 Eduan Swart, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Nick Hatton, 21 Siya Kolisi, 22 Bradley Davids, 23 Marnus Potgieter.

The identities of the seven people who were brutally killed on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast have been released. 

The POST reported that the victims are Allen Monswamy, 52, his wife Sandy, 57, their children Kraidon, 26, and Shamaria, 20, and relatives Gonosagren Padayachee, 51, Mooniamma Padayachee, 78, and Mariama Happanah, 83.

The family was allegedly kidnapped from their home on Tuesday night, and their bodies were discovered in Eshowe on Wednesday.

Julie Gengadu, 56, the family’s next-door neighbour, told the POST on Wednesday: “They were such good people. They were helpful and kept to themselves.

“We did not know that they were kidnapped on Tuesday night. It is believed that the family was taken at 10 pm in the back of a bakkie.

“The helper came to us yesterday and said the house was open and ransacked. Kraidon’s girlfriend was trying to get a hold of him, and that was when the police came to the house.

“It is truly shocking that it happened right under our noses and we did not know,” she said.

Another close family friend, who did not want to be named, said she had known the family for many years.

“They were loving and kind people. They were always so happy to see people. It is terrible what happened to them because they, Sandy and Allen, lost their daughter Ricquelle just two years ago in a serious car accident.

“Now, they have been killed. It is shocking, especially the manner in which they were killed. Our deepest condolences go out to the remaining family,” the friend said.

Earlier today, police said three suspects, who allegedly kidnapped, robbed, and killed the seven family members aged from 20 to 83, from a house in Newtown, in Newark, on Tuesday night, had been arrested.

It is believed one of the suspects worked for the victims. 

According to police, a domestic worker arrived at the family's home on Wednesday morning and found the house broken into.

The seven family members and a vehicle were missing.

Newark police were summoned to the scene, and various police units were activated, said the police in the statement. 

"Swift police investigations led them to the Hlomendlini area, where two suspects were arrested on Wednesday afternoon. One of the suspects was found in possession of a cellphone which belonged to one of the kidnapped victims," said the SAPS. 

Information directed police investigations to the Dendetu area in Sundumbili, where the third suspect was arrested. He was found in possession of a firearm.

A total of 11 cellphones were found in the possession of the suspects.

"Police uncovered that one of the suspects had worked for the victims. He and his accomplices allegedly broke into the victims’ house and tied them up with a rope. One of them allegedly raped the 20-year-old woman before loading them into a vehicle which belonged to one of the victims. They drove to Melmoth, approximately 200km from the scene.

“Police also found that the same suspect, who raped the 20-year-old at the house, raped her again in Melmoth, before demanding banking details and personal identification numbers (PIN) from three victims.

“After collecting the banking details, the suspects shot and killed three victims. The other four victims were brutally stabbed to death." 

Police also discovered that on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, several bank transfers were made from the victims’ accounts.

The suspects led the police to Melmoth on Wednesday where the bodies of the seven victims - aged between 20 and 83 - were found. 

The suspects - aged 21, 26 and 28 - will appear in the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

Lieutenant General Nhlanhla  Mkhwanazi, the Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal, commended police for the swift arrest of the suspects and instructed the investigating officers to ensure that justice was served so that the families of the victims may get closure.

IOL News 

Allegations of labour law and immigration non-compliance in parts of the private sector are expected to come under scrutiny during a planned march to Durban City Hall next week, as the South African National Unemployment Union (SANUU) links the issue to broader concerns over unemployment.

The march, scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, will begin at King Dinuzulu Park at 9am and proceed through the Durban CBD, where a memorandum is set to be handed over at City Hall.

The march comes after a series of ‘clean-up campaigns’ by the March and March movement in the Durban CBD has seen violent confrontations between members of the movement and foreign nationals. Businesses in the CBD have also closed their doors in the past week fearing looting and other incidents. 

Police on Wednesday warned that only law enforcement authorities are allowed to ask foreign nationals for identification documents or permits to prove they are legally in the country. The police said vigilante acts would be dealt with. 

SANUU spokesperson Nhlakanipho Ntombela said the organisation has received “consistent reports of labour law and immigration non-compliance” in sectors such as construction, hospitality, security, and retail, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas including the Durban CBD and surrounding townships.

“We are also concerned that in some cases, employers may prefer undocumented or vulnerable workers because they can be paid below legal standards. This creates an uneven labour environment where both South African citizens and legally employed foreign nationals are undermined,” Ntombela said.

He stated that the union’s position is based on enforcing existing laws and protecting all workers from exploitation. “Proper enforcement of work permit regulations and labour laws is essential to protect all workers and prevent exploitation,” he added.

The union said the march will also address what it describes as an “urgent unemployment crisis” in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly affecting young people and township communities.

Among its demands are increased industrialisation in townships, revitalisation of ageing industrial zones, and job creation through infrastructure development and support for local businesses.

SANUU has identified areas such as Isipingo Industrial Area, Prospecton Industrial Basin, and Jacobs Industrial Area as priority zones for refurbishment, arguing that these could generate employment in manufacturing and logistics if revived.

Ntombela said the union is advocating for a minimum of 70% local labour participation in infrastructure projects to ensure that “public investment directly benefits those most impacted by unemployment”.

The organisation has also committed to a peaceful demonstration. “We are fully committed to a peaceful and disciplined march,” Ntombela said, adding that marshals would be deployed and authorities engaged to ensure compliance with legal requirements.

He said SANUU would consider further action, including additional marches and formal engagements with government departments, if the response to its demands is insufficient.

For more stories from The Mercury, click the link THE MERCURY

The Free State Cheetahs, Griquas and Pumas will have an opportunity to test themselves against three international touring sides this year as part of a new and improved Toyota Challenge set to kick off in June.

This year, Black Lion from Georgia — who also play in the EPCR Challenge Cup with the Cheetahs — will return to Bloemfontein, and Portugal and Romania ‘A’ will join them.

All three nations have qualified for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, where Georgia and Romania are in the same group as South Africa, while Portugal return to the Free State capital, where they faced the Springboks in front of a sold-out crowd in 2024.

The first leg of the competition – in which the three South African teams will face the three visiting sides – is scheduled for Bloemfontein from June 5 to June 14 at the Toyota Stadium. The second leg will play out in Tbilisi, Georgia, in October.

“This competition provides Portugal, Georgia, and Romania with the important high-performance preparation required as they build towards the Rugby World Cup,” said Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby.

“Equally, the tournament offers the Cheetahs, Pumas, and Griquas invaluable international exposure. By competing against top teams from Europe, our sides will showcase and sharpen the budding potential of future Springbok talent.

“The Toyota Challenge is a strategic investment in the growth of the game, the strengthening of international ties, and the preparation of athletes for rugby’s greatest stage. We are looking forward to welcoming our European partners and celebrating the spirit of unity, performance, and opportunity that this competition embodies.”

Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, added: “Launched in 2021, the Toyota Challenge was created to deliver meaningful international competition for the Cheetahs outside the URC environment, and this year it will be expanded to include Griquas and the Pumas as well.

"We’ve seen other South African teams join the Cheetahs in the Toyota Challenge in the past, but this year will be the first time Griquas and the Pumas join the action. Both have won the SA Cup and the Currie Cup in the last few years, so we’re excited to see what they can bring to the party.

“Apart from high-calibre rugby across three match days featuring three encounters per day, fans can also expect crowd activations and giveaways, family-friendly zones and student-focused entertainment, and live entertainment.”

According to Rory Duncan, CEO of the Free State Cheetahs, the hosts of the first leg, the 2026 Toyota Challenge is different from before.

“The new format brings real energy and excitement to the tournament; with three international match days and multiple fixtures played on one day, it creates a true festival of rugby for both players and fans,” said Duncan.

Toyota Challenge fixtures

(Kick-off times to be confirmed)

• Friday, 5 June: Pumas v Black Lion; Griquas v Romania ‘A’; Cheetahs vs Portugal
• Wednesday, 10 June: Griquas v Black Lion; Pumas vs Portugal; Cheetahs vs Romania ‘A’
• Sunday, 14 June: Griquas v Portugal; Pumas vs Romania ‘A’; Cheetahs vs Black Lion