Rugby365’s first schools rankings of 2026
OPINION: We have finally arrived at our first official rankings for 2026—the long wait is over!
The opening rankings are always the most difficult, especially since most teams have only played between three and six matches so far.
How do we compile these rankings? A bit of a “thumb suck”… yes—but we do take several factors into account: strength versus strength, the Under-16 final rankings from 2024, and overall squad potential.
A points system like World Rugby’s simply does not work at school level, and last year’s final rankings cannot be relied upon either, as many teams have changed by as much as 60 percent, with some fielding almost entirely new squads.
It is impossible to produce a perfect ranking when the top 30 teams do not all play each other.
One thing is certain—the talent in South African school rugby is truly exceptional. It is no surprise that South Africa’s rivals look on with envy at the depth of talent available here.
Over the past two weeks, we have been privileged to witness outstanding, “champagne” rugby at various festivals.
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One team on everyone’s lips is Stellenberg. Even before the season began, supporters of the “Jade Brigade” were talking about a so-called “dream team.” And to be fair, victories over two giants within three weeks—Paarl Gim and Grey College—are results any side would celebrate.
You can be sure those wins will be remembered in Stellenberg’s rugby history. They could even have remained unbeaten were it not for a narrow injury-time loss to a very strong Garsfontein side.
The season is still long, and whether they have the depth of the other top-five schools to cope with injuries remains to be seen.
The rise of the KZN schools is also something to celebrate for the Sharks franchise.
Hilton and Westville look like genuine top-five contenders this year, while Michaelhouse, Northwood, Kearsney, and Maritzburg College are all showing promising form.
The Sharks’ Under-18 Craven Week side could be something truly special this year.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments—we’ll take it on the chin! As we always say, these rankings are a “thumb suck” and ultimately just an opinion.
As the legendary Oom Zanberg Jansen used to say: “Nag ou Grote.”
– In memory of Oom Paul Dobson –
By: Johan Orton
