The race for the top 1stXV in KwaZulu-Natal is reaching a boiling point, and with six teams in the Ruggas.co.za 1stXV Ranking, one slip-up will cost you a credible place in the race. Only a few KZN teams will play rugby in the third term, making the fixtures and results over the next four weeks vital.
DHS and Westville seasons did come unstuck recently, with DHS losing four games in a row before beating Kearsney (36-24) a week ago. Westville struggled for a win for five weeks in a row before getting their season back on track with wins over KES (40-00) and Glenwood (50-03). Both teams need a win desperately, and DHS must be the favourites, but a win by Westville will not really be described as an upset.
Northwood’s season is not what would be described as a success; however, their appearance at ABSA Wildeklawer, despite losing both matches, was a massive success and they should be favourites despite the expected backlash by Kearsney following their “unexpected” loss to DHS (24-36) a week ago. Expect Northwood to slow the match down a dominate up front while Kearsney’s dangerous backs will attack from anywhere.
The big one is definitely when Hilton travels to Maritzburg College. College were also brilliant at the ABSA Wildeklawer despite losing both matches, whereafter they beat St Charles (45-05), DHS (18-17) and Northwood (27-24) before taking a week off to prepare for the Hilton visit. Hilton is unbeaten this season; however, did their carefully planned season exclude matches against the top schools in South Africa to ensure that record? Taking into account both teams' recent matches, Maritzburg College's build-up to the Hilton clash should ensure their boys go into this clash match fit and battle-hardened. Expect Maritzburg to come with a big onslaught up front, while Hilton will kick and chase for the full 70 minutes.
KwaZulu-Natal fixtures for the week ending 31 May 2026
Clifton vs Glenwood
DHS vs Westville
Kearsney vs Northwood
Maritzburg College vs Hilton
Michaelhouse vs Pretoria Boys High
St Charles vs St Stithians