UCT Ikey Tigers aim to defend Varsity Cup title and make history with back to back championships in Cape Town

After finally claiming the 2025 Varsity Cup title, the University of Cape Town Ikey Tigers are gearing up for another ambitious campaign, aiming to defend their crown and make history in South African university rugby.

A Hard-Fought Victory Inspires Confidence

The 2025 triumph was far from easy.

Facing their Western Cape rivals, Maties, at their home ground, the Ikeys were under intense pressure with just 15 minutes remaining.

Yet, they dug deep, scoring two late tries to snatch victory in a thrilling finale.

Head coach Robbie Fleck said the win was more than just the scoreboard.

“Our style has been our purpose. The way we play. The Ikey way.

Once the players understood it and believed in it, we knew we were going to be there at the end competing for that title,” Fleck reflected.

Defending the Crown

As reigning champions, the Ikeys will start the 2026 season with a huge target on their backs.

Every opponent will be extra motivated to topple them, but Fleck sees this as a badge of honor.

“We would like to go back-to-back and be the first UCT team to ever achieve that.

This year is about being braver in everything we do,” he said.

The Ikeys have made three Varsity Cup finals in as many years, proving the team’s consistency and resilience.

With several key players departing, Fleck is confident that the squad has the depth and belief to reach yet another final.

Players Embrace the Challenge

Captain Enos Ndiao echoed the coach’s sentiments, emphasizing a focus on courage and the team’s unique style.

“We’ve got one goal and the goal is to go back-to-back. There’s been no complacency in our camp.

This season is really about being braver in everything we do – in our Ikeys style, which is our unique DNA,” Ndiao said.

Pre-season preparations have been intense, with the squad honing their skills, strategies, and teamwork ahead of the opening fixture at Tuks Stadium in Pretoria against UP-Tuks.

The match is set to kick off at 19:00 on Monday, February 16, and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.

Ikeys Squad Depth

The UCT Ikeys boast a large and talented roster, featuring players like Enos Kyle Ndiao (captain), Keagan Blanckenberg (vice-captain), Bruce Campbell, Thomas Davis, and Sinengomso Braweni among others.

This mix of experience, youth, and versatility positions the team well for the challenges of a grueling Varsity Cup season.

What’s Next?

The 2026 Varsity Cup promises to be an intense season, starting with a tough away match against UP-Tuks.

The Ikeys will need to maintain their style, courage, and teamwork to navigate a competitive field.

Their goal is clear: defend the title and become the first UCT team to secure consecutive Varsity Cup championships.

Summary

The UCT Ikey Tigers enter the 2026 Varsity Cup as reigning champions, ready to defend their title after a dramatic 2025 victory over Maties.

With a focus on bravery, the distinctive “Ikey way” of play, and a deep roster, the team aims to make history with back-to-back wins.

Captain Enos Ndiao and coach Robbie Fleck are leading preparations, beginning with a challenging opening match at Tuks Stadium against UP-Tuks on February 16, broadcast live on SuperSport.