From World Cup cricket and quarter-final tennis to high-stakes rugby and a blockbuster SA20 showdown, here’s everything South African sports fans should have locked into their weekend plans.
Global (23 January 2026) – From rising cricket stars to knockout rugby and tennis, this weekend is stacked with sporting action. Here’s a handy guide of what South Africans should have on their radar.
Proteas U19s March On at the World Cup
The young Proteas may have stumbled in their final group match, going down to the West Indies, but their World Cup campaign is very much alive. A brilliant bowling performance from JJ Basson (who picked up five wickets) kept things competitive as the Windies were dismissed for 234.
Despite the loss, South Africa have already secured a place in the Super Six stage. Attention now turns to today’s clash between Australia and Sri Lanka, which will decide who the Proteas face next as the tournament heats up.
Lloyd Harris at the Soma Bay Challenger
It’s been a mixed start to the year for Lloyd Harris. His Australian Open dream ended early in the qualifiers.
But the bounce-back has been impressive. Competing at the Soma Bay Challenger, Harris cruised through the round of 32 with a straight-sets win before digging deep in the last 16. After dropping the second set in a tie-break, he showed real grit to close out the match and book his place in the quarter-finals.
Up next he faces Maxim Mrva in the quarter-final on Friday at 11:00 (SA time).
URC Returns with Big Local Stakes
The United Rugby Championship is back in action with South African teams spread across hemispheres.
Abroad, the Bulls face a near full-strength Edinburgh side in challenging conditions, while the Lions take on an Ospreys team fighting for survival and playing with plenty to prove.
Back home, all eyes will be on Cape Town where the DHL Stormers host the Hollywoodbets Sharks. The Stormers are unbeaten at home this season and sitting pretty at the top of the table.
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Betway SA20 Season 4 Glory
Finals fever is building in the Betway SA20. The Pretoria Capitals have already secured their place in the Season 4 final, but there’s one last hurdle before the trophy showdown.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape and Paarl Royals go head-to-head at The Wanderers today, with a place in the final on the line. While the Sunrisers topped the league table, they were outplayed by the Capitals in Qualifier 1. Paarl, meanwhile, come into this clash flying high after a convincing Eliminator victory.
Start the braai and grab the snacks because this weekend promises edge of your seat entertainment across every code.
Sources: Various Linked Above
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There’s no way I am not watching Aussie Open tennis this weekend…surely there is more to sport than following SA athletes?
I love your blog! By sharing your positive experiences with others, it’s really helpful.
Thank you for this very clear and timely article
Excellent read! I’ve been exploring similar ideas at Institute of Physical and Sport Sciences and your perspective adds great value.