THE Shimlas are gearing up to defend their Varsity Cup title as they prepare for the 2025 season opener against Maties in Stellenbosch on Monday, 17 February.
The anticipation was heightened at the University of the Free State (UFS) team’s official jersey handover ceremony on 13 February at Shimla Park, where the institution’s newly appointed vice-chancellor, Professor Hester Klopper, was in attendance.
Klopper, formerly the deeputy vice-chancellor at Stellenbosch University, added an extra layer of excitement to the evening, addressing the players with an inspiring speech.
Drawing a comparison between the Shimlas and a high-performance Formula One car, she emphasised the importance of speed, balance, teamwork and resilience in their campaign to retain the title.
Quoting former Shimla and current Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus, she urged the players to embrace new challenges with confidence and a winning mindset.
During the ceremony, Marius van Rensburg, chairman of the UFS Rugby Club, highlighted the proud history of the Shimlas, referencing the jerseys displayed in the Shimla Room that celebrate past greats such as Erasmus and current Springbok prop Ox Nché.
A special moment of the evening came when former Springbok hooker and current Shimlas assistant coach Tiaan Liebenberg was honoured with a jersey – a rare exception recognising his contributions to the team’s success.
With the full backing of the UFS community, Klopper assured the team of unwavering support.
“Defend your title with pride and know that you have the full support of the university,” she said.
“I, and several members of the UFS executive, greatly look forward to supporting you in Stellenbosch.”
As the 2025 Varsity Cup kicks off, all eyes will be on the defending champions to see if they can repeat last season’s triumph.
The competition officially begins on 17 February, with UCT Ikeys facing NWU Eagles in the opening fixture, while Wits takes on newly promoted Tuks and UJ clashes with CUT.
The spotlight, however, will be on the showdown in Stellenbosch, where the Shimlas will aim to start their campaign with a statement victory against the Maties.
Head coach André Tredoux is aware of the challenge ahead, particularly after losing 17 of the 23 players from last season’s final.
However, he remains confident in the team’s depth and the development structures in place.
The Shimlas’ Under-20 Young Guns squad, which finished second in their division last year, has provided a strong pipeline of talent for the senior side.
“When I first arrived at the Shimlas in 2022, we knew that we had to build a pathway between the Varsity Cup and Young Guns teams,” Tredoux said.
“We’ve reaped the benefits of that system, and we’re excited to see how this group performs.”
Senior players such as captain Nkoka Ngobe, flanker Henri van Heerden, lock Reinier Juan Martin Viljoen and loosehead prop Ntokozo Hlophe will provide crucial experience and leadership in 2025.
Rather than focusing solely on defending their title, Tredoux and his squad are approaching the season with an attacking mindset.
“We’re not looking to defend the 2024 title – we’re looking to attack the 2025 season with everything we have,” he said.
“They say the best form of defence is attack, and that’s our philosophy, whether in a single game or throughout the season.”
The season opener against Maties will be a stern test for the Bloemfontein-based side.
The two teams split their encounters last season, with Maties winning 38-29 in the league phase before the Shimlas triumphed 38-24 in the semi-finals in Stellenbosch.
“Danie Craven Stadium is the cathedral of student rugby in South Africa,” Tredoux noted.
“Maties are always strong at the set piece and have great pace in the wider channels. It’s going to be a thrilling contest, but no matter what happens, we will stay true to our running game.”
With a blend of youthful energy, experienced leadership, and an attacking philosophy, the Shimlas are determined to make history by securing back-to-back Varsity Cup titles.
The journey begins in Stellenbosch, and the rugby world will be watching closely.