Wits thrash WSU to clinch Varsity Shield title
MATCH REPORT: The Wits Rugby Stadium was packed to the rafters, the rugby on show was entertaining, and the spectators in attendance were given value for their money when Wits hosted WSU in this year’s Varsity Shield Final in Johannesburg on Friday.
The Wits Blues went into the match as favourites, and they lived up to those expectations, beating their counterparts 44-18.
Wits had already secured automatic promotion before the Final, while WSU finished in second place on the log.
In the semifinals, the boys from Johannesburg thumped Madibaz 68-10, and WSU edged UWC 42-32 at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium.
The Final had it all, from drama to suspense, and it was WSU who had a bright start after scoring a penalty early on through fullback Isiphe Mbini.
That early blow sparked the hosts to life, and what followed was pure dominance.
They scored three tries within 20 minutes through Lindani Dweba, Latica Nela and loose forward, Liam Santos.
Christopher Kachungunu and Tirhani Masondo joined the scoring action before the visitors hit back with two tries, thanks to Ahlule Zokoza.
At the halfway point, Wits led 27-13.
Continues below…
That champion feeling…🏆
Congratulations @WitsUniversity who have capped off a perfect season by being crowned FNB Varsity Shield 2026 champions. Undefeated & promoted back into the Varsity Cup. #RugbyThatRocks brought to you by @FNBSA, @SteersSA ,@Suzuki_ZA & @SportPesaSA pic.twitter.com/EzCkFhu6m4
— Varsity Shield (@varsityshield) April 10, 2026
The hosts upped the intensity in the second half and scored two quick tries through Masondo and Dweba to extend their lead to 39-13.
Wits continued dominating the clash, and Kachungunu sealed his brace after the 60-minute mark.
The WSU-All Blacks, however, had the last say when captain, Lukhangele Tshayi, sliced through the Wits defence to score a consolation try for his side.
Scorers
For Wits:
Tries: Lindani Dweba 2, Latica Nela, Liam Santos, Christopher Kachungunu 2,
Tirhani Masondo 2.
For WSU:
Tries: Ahlule Zokoza 2, Lukhangele Tshayi.
Player of the Match: Christopher Kachungunu (Wits)
Teams:
Wits: Ronan Dutton, Bonga Nxumalo, Meyer Opperman, Lian Terblanche, Hayden Munnery, Liam Santos, Christopher Kachungunu, Jamaal Feldman, Sherwin Buys, Rekkie Gerber, Lindani Dweba, Tirhani Masondo, Kamohelo Ncunca, Dustyn Holmes, Latica Nela.
WSU: Mihlali Nohoyeka, Mangaliso Zixesha, Yoyisa Mahobe, Luvo Zindela, Azasakhe Phuwani, Siya Ncapay, Khanaye Mbakaza, Sipho Hobosch, Thembela Folo, Lukhangele Tshayi, Sosulwe Mqonci, Bulelani Nondlwana, Axola Mtalana, Ahlule Zokoza, Isiphe Mbini.
