Banyana Banyana take on Madagascar, the URC serves up two local derbies, the Proteas begin their Test series against Australia, and South Africa’s women’s indoor hockey team face Namibia.
Global (09 October 2026) – Club football is back after the international break, Formula 1 heads to the streets of Singapore, and there’s no shortage of rugby to keep us busy this weekend. The Proteas are also getting their home Test season underway against Australia, while Banyana Banyana and our women’s indoor hockey team have important fixtures of their own. Here are some fixtures to keep an eye on.
Banyana Banyana Are in Bloemfontein
The South African women’s national football team are preparing to face Madagascar at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium, with the return fixture scheduled for Tuesday, 13 October, at 18:00. The team has already arrived in the Free State and completed its first training session at the venue. It’s another opportunity for Banyana to build momentum and give local supporters a chance to get behind the team.
United Rugby Championship Derbies
The action starts at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, where the Bulls host the Lions at 13:30 in the Jukskei Derby. Both sides will be looking to make a statement early in the competition, with local bragging rights and valuable log points up for grabs.
Later, the spotlight moves to Cape Town for the Coastal Derby, with the Stormers welcoming the Sharks to DHL Stadium at 16:00. The Sharks have made an impressive start, but the Stormers will be determined to respond after their narrow loss to Edinburgh.
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The Proteas Test
South Africa begin their three-Test series against Australia at Kingsmead in Durban today, with captain Temba Bavuma emphasising the importance of getting off to a strong start. The series forms part of the World Test Championship campaign, and the Proteas will be eager to build on their success in the 2025 final against Australia.
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International Women’s Hockey
The SPAR South African Women’s Indoor Hockey team are in Windhoek for a five-match Test series against Namibia from 9 to 11 October. It’s a rivalry that rarely disappoints, with the two sides closely matched in recent years. South Africa won both meetings at the 2025 Nkosi Cup, but Namibia will have home advantage this time around.
So whether you’re following the football, catching a derby, settling in for Test cricket or staying up for F1, there’s plenty to keep an eye on.
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