Junior Boks Ignite WP! Showdown in Bloem Against Cheetahs!

By: Danilo Pérez Published On: 16/08/2025

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Western Province (WP) is injecting some serious youthful energy into their Currie Cup campaign this weekend! Two Junior Springboks, fresh off their World Rugby U20 Championship victory, are set to feature in the starting XV as WP travels to Bloemfontein to face the Free State Cheetahs. This is a crucial match for WP as they desperately seek their first win of the season.

Norton's Debut and Cupido's Chance

Riley Norton, the U20 Championship-winning captain, will make his senior debut at blindside flank, bringing his leadership and dynamism to the WP pack. Gino Cupido joins Damian Markus in the midfield, hoping to spark some attacking flair.

Speedsters on the Wings

The back three sees Joel Leotlela on the left wing, combining with sevens stars Shilton van Wyk and Tristan Leyds to form a potentially lethal and incredibly fast attacking unit. This trio promises to be a handful for the Cheetahs' defence.

Gideon van Wyk replaces the injured Zain Davids at openside flank, while Gary Porter takes over the captaincy, providing experience and leadership. Hooker Luca Bakkes and loose forward Enos Ndiao add further depth to the squad, starting on the bench.

WP coach Labeeb Levy is optimistic about the changes. "We have got some incredibly talented players coming in this week and they are surrounded by a settled core who are ready to raise the standards in every area,” he said. He acknowledges the challenge of playing in Bloemfontein but insists the team is embracing it. "Travelling to Bloemfontein is always a big challenge, but it is one we are embracing. We will need to be on our game from the first to the last whistle to get the result we need.”

Western Province Team: