The Currie Cup playoff picture crystallised this weekend as the Cheetahs joined the Griquas in securing semifinal berths. Friday night saw Griquas dismantle the Pumas 38 – 14 to claim top spot on the table.
While the Griquas and the Cheetahs have punched their tickets to the semifinals with a round to spare, the race for the remaining two playoff spots are absolutely wide open.
Multiple teams remain in contention, with final-round results determining who joins the top two and who goes home with nothing but regrets about dropped points earlier in the campaign.
The last round of the round-robin phase delivers four fixtures, but only three truly matter for playoff purposes. The Sharks XV face the Bulls in a match where neither side can reach the semifinals.
Lions vs Stormers XXIII shapes as a straight knockout. Both teams need victory if they hope to reach the semifinals.
Cheetahs vs Pumas presents an interesting dynamic. The Cheetahs have already secured their semifinal berth and could rest key players or use the fixture to build combinations. The Pumas need victory to keep playoff hopes alive, creating a must-win scenario against opponents who may not be fully motivated.
Boland vs Griquas in Wellington looms as potentially decisive for the Kavaliers. Boland need victory to reach the semifinals, whilst Griquas will be targeting top spot and home advantage. Both sides have genuine motivation, setting up what promises to be an absolute cracker.
One round remains. Two playoff spots available. Multiple teams still breathing.
- The match between Griquas and Boland is scheduled for 15:00 on Sunday 30 August in the Sanlam Boland Stadium in Wellington.
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