FNB Maties lost to FNB UP-Tuks (35-44) in a semi-final in 2021, however, they ended second on the log with 35 points, six points short of FNB UCT Ikeys who ended first. Maties won the Varsity Cup in 2008,2009, 2010, 2018 and 2019.
Maties head coach Norman Jordaan said "The guys are excited about the fact that 2022 sees a return to a more regular schedule and the return of the fans to the stadiums. We want to win the Cup, but we also want to enjoy our rugby and entertain the crowds with an expansive brand of play."
"We’ve lost quite a few players since 2021, and are light on experience in positions like scrumhalf and lock. I don’t think the situation is unique to Maties, though, as every team has lost players since last year. How we respond to the challenge will be key. We have some great youngsters coming through the ranks, and an inspirational captain in Adriaan van der Bank."
2022 Squad:
Loosehead Prop: James Combrinck, Gert Marais, Wian van Zyl.
Hooker: Francois Breytenbach, Chris Rossouw, Sean Swart, Jan-Corrick van der Watt.
Tighthead Prop: Matimu Manganyi, Vernon Matongo, Rhynardt Rijnsburger.
Lock: Juan Beukes, Rhys Fulford, Matthew Grey.
Flanker: Gift Dlamini, Hendri du Toit, Jesse Johnson, De Wet Marais, Louw Nel, Theo Repinz, Marco van Rhyn, Tane Wahl.
Eighth Man: Tyrone Maritz, Siya Matanda, HD Stemmet.
Scrumhalf: Lian du Toit, Jaco Nell, Eduan Smit, Christiaan van Heerden-Smith, Mckyle Volmoer.
Flyhalf: Jurie Matthee, Adriaan van der Bank, Wian van Zyl.
Centre: Emilio Bento, Luke Burger, Waqar Solaan, Brendan Venter.
Wing: Mike Mavovana, Masande Mtshali, Taigh Schoor.
Fullback: LJ du Preez, Nevaldo Fleurs, Jacques Rousseau, Sibabalwe Xamlashe.