Lions will have to ‘roll up their sleeves’ if they’re to win Currie Cup in 2026

The Lions are embracing their role as underdogs as they aim to secure their first Currie Cup title since 2015, facing the Griquas in the semifinals on Sunday. However, their path to victory will be arduous, beginning with a challenging away game against the reigning champions, the Griquas, followed by a trip to either Bloemfontein or Mbombela to face the Cheetahs or Pumas, depending on the outcome of their opening match.

This scenario marks a significant shift for the Lions, who have been the favorites in the past two seasons but have fallen short in the final moments of two crucial matches. Last year, they lost to the Sharks by a single penalty kick, and in 2024, they narrowly lost to the Sharks by one point after Jordan Hendrikse's last-minute penalty.

With the Lions now sitting in fourth place, facing tough away matches in the knockout stage, and without the recent additions of URC regulars to their squad, they are determined to seize this opportunity to fulfill their goal of winning the Currie Cup. Coach Mziwakhe Nkosi acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by the Griquas, who have dominated the standings this season, but emphasizes the importance of maintaining their underdog status and rallying their young, experienced players, who have previously reached multiple finals as juniors.

Nkosi remains confident that his team's resilience and determination will propel them to a historic third consecutive Currie Cup final appearance.