From Rugby to Cricket: What’s on in Sport This Weekend

Rethabile Nyelele15 August , 2025

2 2 minutes read

From Rugby to Cricket: What’s on in Sport This Weekend — Image: Getty Images

Sports lovers, get ready – this weekend is shaping up to be an unforgettable one. From the roar of Ellis Park to the high-octane pace of MotoGP, South Africans will have no shortage of action to keep them glued to their screens.

Springboks Kick Off Rugby Championship Campaign

The country’s beloved Springboks begin their Rugby Championship defence on Saturday, facing old rivals Australia at Ellis Park. It’s a clash loaded with anticipation, as Rassie Erasmus’ men aim to make a strong statement in their opening fixture.

Injuries to Cheslin Kolbe and Damian de Allende, along with Jasper Wiese’s suspension, have forced Erasmus into some surprise changes. However, with Siya Kolisi captaining from eighthman for the first time, the Boks remain a formidable unit. Expect high-tempo rugby in dry conditions, with South Africa eager to maintain their Ellis Park dominance.

Proteas Chase Historic Series Win Down Under

Earlier on Saturday, cricket takes centre stage when Aiden Markram’s Proteas battle Australia in Cairns for the T20 series decider. With the series locked at 1-1, history is on the line. The Proteas have never won a T20 series in Australia, and their last series win against the Aussies came back in 2009.

South Africa’s confidence is sky-high after a record-breaking innings by Dewald Brevis in Darwin earlier this week, where his unbeaten 125 powered the team to victory. Whether it’s Brevis, rising star Lhuan-dre Pretorius, or the consistent Kwena Maphaka who delivers, the Proteas will need another standout performance to topple the Aussies.

Dricus du Plessis Defends UFC Title

In the early hours of Sunday morning, the spotlight shifts to Chicago, USA, where Dricus du Plessis defends his UFC middleweight belt for the third time. His opponent, Russian powerhouse Khamzat Chimaev, poses arguably his toughest challenge yet.

Du Plessis’ rise has been meteoric, with dominant defences cementing his status as one of the sport’s biggest names. A win this weekend could push him into the conversation as one of MMA’s all-time greats.

Brad Binder Races in Austria

Two-wheeled thrills are also on the agenda as Brad Binder lines up in the MotoGP Austrian Grand Prix. Binder, South Africa’s star on the circuit, will be pushing for another podium in what has been a competitive season so far.

Local Football Heats Up with MTN8 Semi-Finals

Back home, the MTN8 semi-finals promise plenty of drama. With a trophy on the line and teams eager to claim early silverware, the weekend’s fixtures are expected to deliver edge-of-the-seat entertainment.

Currie Cup Action Continues

Rugby fans won’t just be treated to the Springboks. The Currie Cup is also in full swing, adding another layer of domestic passion to the weekend. Provincial sides will be battling for crucial points as the season heads towards its business end.

English Premier League Season Kicks Off

Adding to the packed schedule, the 2025/26 English Premier League season begins on Friday night. Defending champions Liverpool, under new boss Arne Slot, open their campaign against Bournemouth. The action continues through Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. This ensures football fans will have plenty to follow alongside local and international clashes.

A Sporting Feast for Every Fan

From rugby rivalries and cricket history-making opportunities to MMA showdowns, motor racing, and domestic football glory, this wee k end is a sports lover’s dream. Whether you’re backing the Boks at Ellis Park or the Proteas in Cairns, South African pride will be riding high across the globe.