Exclusive: Hawies Fourie Outlines How 'Boland Sundays' Will Fuel Cavaliers’ SA Cup Hopes

After a breakthrough 2025 campaign, the Boland Cavaliers have their sights firmly set on silverware in 2026. Head coach Hawies Fourie has made it clear: the immediate target is the SA Cup title.

Boland enjoyed a memorable season last year, qualifying for the Currie Cup for the first time in several years and claiming notable scalps in Wellington. Victories over heavyweight opposition turned their home ground into a fortress and reignited belief in the Cape Winelands.

But Fourie is not getting carried away.

Preseason Foundation Key to SA Cup Push

Boland began preparations as early as October, laying the groundwork for what they hope will be an even stronger campaign.

“We started with preseason early in October, we had a really good preseason,” said Fourie. 

“There are still a few injured players who have to make their way back, but most of the squad is active.”

Warm-up fixtures against UWC, Maties and SK Walmers provided valuable contact conditioning, while upcoming tests against SWD Eagles and the Blue Bulls are expected to offer a clearer benchmark.

“The upcoming games will show us where we are and what we need to work on,” Fourie added.

The format is simple and unforgiving: finish in the top four of the SA Cup to secure qualification for the Currie Cup. Boland, however, are thinking bigger.

“We want to ensure we get into that top four. We actually set a goal for ourselves to win the SA Cup.”

Griquas Qualification Debate

One of the major talking points heading into the season surrounds the defending Currie Cup champions, the Griquas, who must requalify through the SA Cup despite lifting the trophy last year.

Griquas management have expressed frustration at the decision, arguing that the Kimberley-based outfit deserved automatic entry. Fourie sympathises... to a point.

“I think they would’ve liked to be in the Currie Cup already because they won it the previous season. And I understand their frustration,” he said.

However, he believes the additional fixtures could ultimately benefit the champions.

“They have such a quality team that they will qualify anyway. On the other hand, they get nine games and playoffs, 11 games, which gives exposure to their players and sponsors." 

“If they don’t play in the SA Cup and only play in the Currie Cup, they miss out on 11 games. If I was in their shoes, I’d play the 11 games to prepare.”

Targeted Recruitment, Squad Confidence

Boland have been measured in the transfer market. Their only addition from the United Rugby Championship ranks is Chris Smit, on loan from the Bulls, to provide cover at flyhalf following injuries to Ashlon Davids and James Tedder.

“Chris can cover at 10 and also play 12 for us,” Fourie explained. 

“That’s why we looked to him.”

While injuries plagued parts of their 2025 campaign, Fourie is reluctant to over-recruit, especially with the inaugural SA U23 competition limiting the availability of fringe players from URC franchises.

“We will only recruit if it is necessary. I am confident in the squad we’ve got. If we get a lot of injuries in a certain position, then we will look at recruiting.”

The Rise of ‘Boland Sundays’

Perhaps the most defining feature of Boland’s resurgence was their home form. Playing Currie Cup fixtures on Sundays in Wellington, they built a reputation for giant-killing, defeating the Cheetahs, Lions and Bulls in front of passionate local support.

With only three home games last season compared to four away, Boland maximised every opportunity. This year, a potential extra home fixture could tilt the balance further in their favour.

“When we get to the Currie Cup, we will have one extra home game,” said Fourie. “And have another Boland Sunday… hopefully,” he laughed.

The atmosphere in Wellington has become central to the team’s identity.

“We perform really well in front of our home crowd. It’s a great atmosphere. Anyone who watched or attended would’ve enjoyed the vibes in Wellington." 

“Our supporters are special, and I feel the confidence we gained out of the 2025 season we will take into 2026. We will definitely be better.”

One Step Further?

Boland’s resurgence has restored pride in the region. The challenge now is consistency, and converting promise into silverware.

Fourie’s approach remains measured: focus on the SA Cup, secure qualification, then build momentum toward the Currie Cup. Yet beneath the pragmatism lies ambition.

After proving they can compete with the country’s heavyweights, Boland are no longer content with being surprise packages. The goal is clear, lift a trophy.

And if Wellington continues to roar on Sundays, few teams will relish the trip to Boland Stadium.