PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – November 13, 2023 – The South African Rugby League (SARL) proudly announces the resounding success of the two-test match series between the South African Rhinos and the Kenyan Eagles, held on November 8 at the Naka Bulls Stadium and November 11 at the Grizzlies Stadium. The Rhinos emerged victorious in both matches, marking a historic achievement on home soil.

After a five-year hiatus from playing on South African turf, the Rhinos returned with an extraordinary display of skill, determination, and sportsmanship. The matches were a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Rhinos team, showcasing their prowess and resilience in front of their home crowd.

John Mbai and his team, the Kenyan Eagles, graciously accepted the challenge and provided formidable competition throughout the series. SARLSA extends heartfelt gratitude to the Kenyan Eagles for their visit to South Africa, fostering international camaraderie and elevating the standard of rugby league on the continent.

President of the South African Rugby League, Dr Frans Erasmus, expressed his appreciation, saying, "We are thrilled to have hosted the Kenyan Eagles for this historic series. The Rhinos' victories are a testament to the growth and development of rugby league in South Africa. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to John Mbai and his team for their sportsmanship and dedication on the field."

This series marks a milestone for the South African Rhinos, as they have not played on home soil since 2018. The back-to-back victories against the Kenyan Eagles hold special significance, possibly marking the first-ever international test match wins for the Rhinos in South Africa.

Dr Erasmus added, "I may be mistaken, but to the best of my knowledge, the Rhinos have never won any international test matches on South African soil. This achievement is a proud moment for our team and rugby league enthusiasts across the country."

SARLSA congratulates the Kenyan Eagles on their outstanding performance and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors. The spirit of competition displayed during these test matches further strengthens the bonds between rugby league communities in South Africa and Kenya.

As the series concludes, SARLSA looks forward to the opportunity of future encounters with the Kenyan Eagles, hoping for more thrilling matches that showcase the talent and sportsmanship of both nations. The South African Rugby League community eagerly anticipates the next chapter in international rugby league competitions.

A hat trick of tries from centre Marnus Coetzer saw South Africa take a 56-12 lead in the JP Botha African Cup at the Naka RC Stadium against Kenya. In the first meeting of the nations in a men’s senior international, the visitors took an early lead through a Wycliffe Ratemo penalty but the Rhinos led 22-8 at the break, winger Shuane Matsane with two tries as the hosts exploited the visitor’s right hand side. 

South Africa men’s head coach, Fanie Bredenhann, said: “Our initial start was slow to absorb the highly motivated Kenyans. The lack of international experience was our biggest concern with a new crop of players but as we got momentum, the play got into a nice flow. Points scored against us and ill-discipline will be the topics to address before the next game.”

Wycliffe Ratemo and Brian Mutua scored Kenya’s tries. “It was good to finally get to play the game despite it not going our way,” said interim head coach John M’Bai. “We have two days to recover and see which areas we can improve on before the next encounter. I am proud of the brave performance put up by the team given that they arrived in SA just hours before kick-off.”

The sides meet again at Grizzlies rugby club in Pretoria on Saturday.

SOUTH AFRICA 56
Junaide Seedat, Itu Mphete, James Campbell, Marnus Coetzer, Shaun Matsane, Jean Coetzer, Hendrik Mulder, CP Louw, Franco Van Deventer, Altus Delport, Dylan Venter, Marcelle Corneelsen, Allan Kasselman
Subs: Marcelle Vilijoen, Luka Fana, Justin Van Heerden, Tjaart Pretorius

Tries: Matsane (5, 22), Coetzer (9, 55, 69), Van Deventer (17), Van Heerden (48), Delport (58), Campbell (61) , Corneelsen (75)
Goals: Mulder 8/10

KENYA 12
Lawrence Okello, Ramadhan Masete, Brian Mutua, Collins Ochieng, Paul Seda, Dennish Ndinya Lucky Byron, Iddo Kuta, Victor Ndungu, Raymond Ekutu, James Maranga, Patrick Mwakina, Wycliffe Ratemo
Subs: Nick tom Opiyo, Solo Mbugua Kevin, Kelly Omari, Steve Muniafu

Tries: Masete (30), Mutua (64) 
Goals: Ratemo 2/2, Mutua 0/1

Half time: 22-8

Referee AJ Barnard and Rudolf du Plooy

​

​At the Centurion Rugby Club in Pretoria, an action-packed day of Rugby League matches unfolded on October 21, 2023 in SARLSA Rhino cup competition
 
The Grizzlies RLC exhibited a dominant performance, securing a resounding 56-4 victory over the Brits Bulldogs. D. Karelse, L. Plaatjies and M. Corneelson shone for the Grizzlies, each scoring 2 tries, supported by L. Kruger, W. Roos, M. Andrews, M. Nzike, and Z. Germishuizen. The Grizzlies furthered their win with conversions by M. Nzike, D. Karelse, and L. Matlou. Despite their efforts, the Brits Bulldogs managed only 1 try.
 
In another thrilling encounter, the Pretoria Harlequins RLC triumphed over the Nigel Rabbitohs Red, concluding the match with a score of 56-20. The Harlequins' stellar performance was led by D. Kangi, G. Masemolo, and J. Coetzer, each scoring 2 tries, while G. Grobler, CP Louw, C. de Jonge, A. Gower, F. van Deventer, and D. Venter also contributed significantly to their team's victory. H. Mulder's accurate conversions, alongside J. Coetzer's contribution, solidified the Harlequins' lead. The Nigel Rabbitohs Red managed to secure 4 tries, with Q. van Zyl, J. Olsen, S. Mtsweni, and B. Piri making vital contributions, and 2 conversions made by R. Louwrens.
 
In a closely contested match, the St Helens Vultures emerged victorious with a narrow 32-28 win against the Pretoria Bulls RLC. The Vultures displayed resilience and determination, scoring 4 well-executed tries and successfully converting 2 of them. On the other hand, the Pretoria Bulls RLC exhibited commendable teamwork, with K. Trlefin securing 2 tries, and L. Vumisa, D. Bloem, R. Robertson, and M. Shode also contributing to their team's score. D. Bloem was responsible for the 2 conversions, adding crucial points for their team's efforts.
 
The Centurion Lions faced a tough challenge against the Nigel Rabbitohs Blue, resulting in a 58-36 win for the Rabbitohs Blue. Standout performances by S. Matsane, T. Pretoruis, J. Seedat, P. de Beer, S. Jange, L. Cobus, J. van
Dyk, C .Pienaar and F. Williams led to the Rabbitohs' victory, while the accurate conversions by J. Seedat, L. Cobus, and J. van Dyk played a pivotal role. Despite their strong efforts, the Centurion Lions put up a valiant fight, with A. Delport, J. van Heerden, J. Griesel, C. Spies, S. Jacobs, and V. Myburgh making notable contributions, supported by J. Makari's conversions.
 
Grizzlies RLC vs Brits Bulldogs
Grizzlies tries
D Karelse 2, L Plaatjies 2, L Kruger, W Roos, M Andrews, M Corneelson 2,
M Nzike, Z Germishuizen
Conversions
M Nzike 2, D Karelse, L Matlou

Brits Bulldogs tries 
F Botha
Convertions


Pretoria Harlequins RLC 56 vs 20 Nigel Rabbitohs Red
Pretoria Harlequins tries
D Kangi 2, G Masemolo 2, J Coetzer 2, G Grobler, CP Louw, C de Jonge, A
Gower, F van Deventer, D Venter
Coversions
H Mulder 4, J Coetzer

Nigel Rabbitohs Red tries
Q van Zyl, J Olsen, S Mtsweni, B Piri
Conversions
R Louwrens 2


St Helens Vulture 32 vs 28 Pretoria Bulls RLC
Vultures tries 4

Conversions 2


Pretoria Bulls RLC RLC tries
K Trlefin 2, L Vumisa, D Bloem, R Robertson, M
Conversions
D Bloem 2


Nigel Rabbitohs Blue 58 vs 36 Centurian Lions
Nigel Rabbitohs Blue tries
S Matsane 2, T Pretoruis, J Seedat, P de Beer, S Jange, L Cobus, J van
Dyk, C Pienaar, F Williams
Conversions
J Seedat 5, L Cobus 2, J van Dyk 2

Centurian Lions tries
A Delport, J van Heerden, J Griesel, C Spies, S Jacobs, V Myburgh
Conversions
J Makari 6

Grizzlies RLC 56 vs 4 Brits Bulldogs
​
Grizzlies tries
D Karelse 2, L Plaatjies 2, L Kruger, W Roos, M Andrews, M Corneelson 2, M Nzike, Z Germishuizen

Conversions M Nzike 2, D Karelse, L Matlou

Brits Bulldogs tries
F Botha

Convertions


Pretoria Harlequins RLC 56 vs 20 Nigel Rabbitohs Red

Pretoria Harlequins tries D Kangi 2, G Masemolo 2, J Coetzer 2, G Grobler, CP Louw, C de Jonge, A Gower, F van Deventer, D Venter

Coversions H Mulder 4, J Coetzer

Nigel Rabbitohs Red tries
Q van Zyl, J Olsen, S Mtsweni, B Piri

Conversions
R Louwrens 2

St Helens Vulture 32 vs 28 Pretoria Bulls RLC Vultures tries 4

Conversions 2

Pretoria Bulls RLC RLC tries
K Trlefin 2, L Vumisa, D Bloem, R Robertson, M

Conversions D Bloem 2


Nigel Rabbitohs Blue 58 vs 36 Centurian Lions

Nigel Rabbitohs Blue tries S Matsane 2, T Pretoruis, J Seedat, P de Beer, S Jange, L Cobus, J van Dyk, C Pienaar, F Williams

Conversions J Seedat 5, L Cobus 2, J van Dyk 2

Centurian Lions tries
A Delport, J van Heerden, J Griesel, C Spies, S Jacobs, V Myburgh

Conversions J Makari 6

Nigel Rabbitohs Red 26 vs 68 St Helens Vultures Els Park 

Rabbitohs Red tries 
F Louwrens2, M Viljoen, J Wessels, R Thobethe 

Conversions J Jansen van Rensburg 2, J van Dyk

Vulture tries
J Westernberg 4, B Mkhwanazi 2, S Kock 2, Brain Mkhwanazi 2, E vd Merwe, T Nieman 

Convertions J Westernberg 7, R Louw 3

Pretoria Bulls RL 60 vs 18 Brits Bulldogs 

Pretoria Bulls tries E Steenkamp 4, D Bloem2, S Theron, K Truter, L Makhongolo, L Vumisa, H Taute 
Coversions D Bloem 8

Brits Bulldogs
Penalty try plus 2 tries

Conversions  3


Nigel Rabbitohs 52 RLC Blue vs 16 Grizzlies RLC 

Rabbitohs Blue tries C Jay Straus 3, C Pienaar, S Matsane, J Seedat, L Cobus, M Viljoen, R Thabethe 

Conversions J Seedat 8

Grizzlies RLC tries
U Richter, B Smit, W Roos

Conversions
J Davies 2

Pta Harlequins RL 50 vs 10 Centurian Lions 

Harlequins RL tries D Venter 2, CJ Meyer, A Tarr, J Coetzer, F van Deventer, H Burger, B Hadebe 

Conversions J Coetzer 6, CJ Meyer

Centurian Lions tries
J van Heerden, C Pienaar

Conversions
W van Graan

Attached team group photo of Rabbitohs Blue/ Grizzlies and Pta Harlequins RL/Centurian Lions.
Photo of match officials for Rhino cup games 14 Oct Photo of some of our very young AR's Photo of coach Fanie helping to prepare the pitch for 14 Oct games.
​

Rhino Cup Results
07 October 2023

Match Reports

Pta Harlequins RLC 100 vs 36 Brits Bulldogs

Harlequins tries- F van Deventer 5, M Coetzee 3, CJ Meyer 2, J Coetzer 2, CP Louw 2, D Kangi, T Mahlophe, S Muniafu.

Conversions
H Mulder 16

Brits Bulldogs tries
S Mapapa 2, J Bester 3, F Botha

Convertions
T Maake 6

Grizzlies 62 - 6 Centurian Lions

Grizzlies tries
Jan Wit 3, O Roos 2, X Germishuizen, D Kreamer, B Le Sar, D Karelse, M Corneelsen, W Roos, Buffy Coversions J Wit 5, Buffy, Marshall

Centurian Lions tries
J van Heerden

Conversion
D Bothma


Nigel Rabbitohs RLC Red 34 - 32 Pretoria RLC

Rabbitohs Red tries S Jange 2,C Pienaar, A van Taak, P Mnguni, M Erasmus

Conversions S Jange 4, S Mtsweni

Pretoria RLC tries
R Robertson, H Taute, E Steenkamp, L Fana, b Mokwena, Bongani

Conversions D Bloem 4


Nigel Rabbitohs Blue 56 - 12 Vultures

Rabbitohs Blue tries
P de Beer 4, S Matsane, J Seedat, L Cobus, L Baadjies, J Wessels, J van Wyk

Conversions J Seedat 7, J van Wyk

St Helens Vultures tries
D vd Merwe 2
​
Conversions
D Westernberg, S Koekemoer

In an exciting showdown that promises to captivate rugby league enthusiasts worldwide, the South African Rhinos are gearing up to take on Italy's Azzuri in a highly anticipated test match. This electrifying clash is scheduled to kick off on October 28, 2023, at 16:00 local time at the iconic Lidcombe Oval in New South Wales, Australia.
 
The South African Rhinos, led by captain Shane Gillham, are poised to showcase their formidable skills and unwavering determination on the international stage. Under the expert guidance of their head coach, Darryl Fischer, the team has undergone rigorous training and preparation, leaving no stone unturned in the pursuit of reclaiming South Africa’s rightful place in world rankings.
 
This test match marks a milestone for South African rugby league, as it offers an opportunity for the Rhinos to demonstrate their prowess against the higher ranking Italian national team, the Azzuri.
The South African Rugby League Federation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Italian Rugby League Federation for extending this invitation to compete on such a prestigious stage.
 
The Azzuri, known for their tenacity and commitment to the sport, are expected to bring their A-game to the field, ensuring closely contested match.
 
As we approach this encounter, we invite all Rhino rugby league enthusiasts from all corners of the globe to support the Rhinos. Let us unite in our support for the South African Rhinos as they embark on this journey, carrying the hopes and aspirations of their nation in climbing the ladder in world rankings.
 
The match promises to be a display of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of rugby league. We extend our best wishes to both teams for a safe and competitive match. May the best team emerge victorious and may this test match serve as a testament to the power of sport to unite nations.
 
Dr Frans Erasmus
President
South African Rugby League

South Africa will face Kenya in two men’s senior internationals for world ranking points in early November. Both games will be played at the Grizzlies Stadium in Pretoria, on 1 November 2023 (kick off 4pm local time) and 4 November (kick off 6pm).
The Rhinos have already held camps in preparation, with head coach Fanie Bredenhann saying: “Covid arrived on everybody’s’ shores to create problems in all classes of life. Rugby league has suffered tremendous postponements and cancellations and dreams of international competition vanished.
“We suddenly had to rethink our strategy and approach and now host Kenya to revive and promote the code in Africa. It will be an honour to welcome them and share friendship into the future.”
Kenya will be coached by former professional Eddie Rombo, their director of rugby and ecosystems development, John Mbai, noting: “This has been years in development and will mark yet another historical milestone for our young, growing federation.
“We look forward to some exciting matches that will definitely give us an indication of where we are on the world stage and what more we need to do.”

Pretoria, September 8, – Get ready for an electrifying display of rugby prowess as the Rhinos, South African Rugby League's national team, prepares to face off against the rising stars of the Kenya Rugby League. The two dynamic teams are set to engage in a riveting two-test match series that promises to showcase the best of rugby talent from both nations. Last night, South African Rugby League and Kenya Rugby League Federation signed an agreement to play two test matches on November 1 and 4, 2023 on the Grizzlies stadium in Pretoria.
 
The matches are scheduled to take place at the Grizzlies Stadium in Pretoria on November 1, and November 4.  Fans and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting this clash of giants on the rugby field. The first match will kick off on November 1, marking the inaugural encounter between the two teams.
 
Leading the charge for the Rhinos is the seasoned coach, Fanie Bredenhann. With years of experience under his belt, Coach Fanie is meticulously preparing his team for the challenge that lies ahead. Despite the absence of their Heritage players, the Rhino team is set to demonstrate their mettle and prove themselves as worthy opponents.
 
Kenya, a new member of the Middle East Africa Federation, has swiftly emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the rugby arena. Under the guidance of their determined coach, John Mbai, the Kenyan team is ready to leave their mark on the international stage. Arriving at the Oliver Tambo Airport in Johannesburg on October 31, John Mbai and his squad exude confidence and determination.
 
Coach Fanie acknowledges the formidable threat that the Kenyan team poses. He anticipates a fast-paced and skilful game, with Kenya's unique style setting the stage for an exhilarating contest. As both teams gear up for the battle, rugby enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the spectacle that awaits.
 
The first test match on November 1, is expected to set the tone for the series, with both teams vying for supremacy. The second test match on November 4, promises to be equally intense as the competitors leave no stone unturned to secure victory.
 
Rugby fans, sports enthusiasts, and supporters of both teams are encouraged to gather at the Grizzlies Stadium to witness this clash of rugby titans. The event not only celebrates the spirit of competition but also showcases the unity that rugby fosters among nations.
 
Frans Erasmus, President of South African Rugby League says:
“Stay tuned for an unforgettable display of athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship as the Rhinos and Kenya Rugby League go head-to-head in an enthralling series of test matches.”
 For ticket information, live updates, and exclusive content, visit the official event website and Facebook page.
 
For media inquiries, interviews, and accreditation requests, please contact:
Andre Coetzer
coo@sarugbyleague.co.za
Sponsor and Press Contact:
Andre Coetzer
COO
coo@sarugbyleague.co.za
www.sarugbyleague.co.za
Event Details:
 
Dates:          First test: November 1
                       Second Test: November 4     
Venue:         Grizzlies Stadium, Pretoria

Social Media:
Facebook: South African Rugby League
Instagram:  https://instagram.com/south_african_rugby_league?igshid=ZDdkNTZiNTM=
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarugbyleague
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com@sarugbyleague?lang=en
Website: www.sarugbyleague.co.za

​Wolves came from behind to win the Kenya Rugby League Federation men’s Grand Final, defeating Rift Valley’s Ruffians 18-14 at the Impala Stadium, Nairobi.
 
Protus Nanga’s try five minutes from time secured victory in a terrific game in which Wolves scored four tries to their opponents two. Wolves’ coach John Mkala said: “This has been the conclusion of a very successful season. Being Crowned Premiership Champions is testament of the great journey we have had. 
 
“My congratulations go to Ruffians who were worthy opponents. They gave as good as they got and indeed this game could have gone either way as little separated us. A special thanks to John Mbai and the entire team behind him at KRLF for organizing and managing a good championship that can only get bigger and better.”
 
Ruffians started strongly, leading 12-10 at half time but couldn’t convert enough of their pressure into points. Player/coach Lawrence Okello noted: “The season has been a long journey that was full of growth and development, seeing the game played in different regions was a great show that has helped the sport expand. We still believe that our time is coming and soon we will clinch the title.”
 
Wolves also played in the women’s Grand Final but were beaten 36-8 by AP Warriors, centre Faith Achieng with two of their four tries and all seven of their shots at goal successful. They were dominant in the first half, leading 22-0 at the break.
 
Frederick David, coach of AP Warriors, commented: "We are extremely happy to be crowned champions in the maiden women's competition. The game was harder than it looks and Wolves gave a good account of themselves. We play them again in the knock-out cup competition and this will no doubt be a tougher game. For now we will enjoy the win."
 
 
MEN’S GRAND FINAL
 
Wolves 18
Edwin Watulo, Nick Mkongo, Godfrey Kisero, Augustine Simuyu, Tony Allan, Evans Omondi, Collins Ochieng, Collins Omondi, Edgar Salano, Noah Jeddy, Kelly Omari, Kazuki Oteki, Bryson Kinyangi,
(Subs) Joseph Chweix, Protus Nanga, Masudi Athuman, Puis Mbale 
 
Tries: Masudi Athuman (15) , Noah Jeddy (22), Tony Allan (50) , Protus Nanga (75)
Goals: Colins Ochieng 1/4
 
Ruffians 14
Lawerence Okello, Victor Ndungu, Joseph Nun, Timothy Thimba, Ibrahim Adida, Lucky Otieno, Solomon Ndirangu, Opate Ashoya, Benny Kudende, Godwin Matwali, Barnabas Osaro, Joseph Doti, Peter Mwangi, (Subs) John Njoroge, Denzel Emmanuel, Edwin Abunqana, Felix Ochieng Ouma 
 
Tries: Joseph Nun (4) , Timothy Thimba (19)
Goals: Joseph Nun 1/1, Ibrahim Adida 2/2
 
Half time: 10-12
 
WOMEN’S GRAND FINAL
 
AP Warriors 36
Alice Gathoni, Nicole Jedi, Lovinah Misera, Faith Aehieng, Maxine Abuda, Milkah Chitechi, Atieno Awour, Naomi Moshuusi, Shadon Mothysi, Arine Mmbone, Sophye Nabwire, Phoebe Otteruo, Clarice Muthamb
(Subs) Maria Gacheru, Clarice Oshior, Angela Makhupe, Daina Ommso
 
Tries: Phoebi Otteruo (13), Faith Achieng (32, 40), Sophye Nabwire (52)
Goals: Milkah Chitechi 5/5, Diana Omuso 2/2,
 
Wolves 8
Benza Bosibori, Kahindi Mlongo, Miriam Onyikwa, Verien Kerubo, Violet Kerubo, Rose Akal, Florence Akinyi, Elizabeth Katunge, Angel Catherine, Florise Andika, Rita Mwanzinge, Rahab Wanjiku, Edith Sally
(Subs) Celestine Adhiambo, Emmaculate Moraa, Lucy Elkana, Mitchelle Alivista
 
Tries: Verine Kerubo (58) Edith Sally (80)
 
Half time: 22-0
 
Referee: Esther Nyambura