Table of contents for 2025-06-02 in Star

South Africa recorded a preliminary trade balance surplus of R14.1 billion in April, the South African Revenue Service (Sars) reported on Friday, a decline from the revised R22.6bn surplus in March. The April surplus was driven by exports of R166.2bn and imports of R152.1bn, including trade with Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Namibia (BELN). However, the surplus was lower than the R24.8bn recorded in March, reflecting a month-on-month export decline of R4.3bn (-2.5%) and an import increase of R4.3bn (2.9%). Compared to April 2024, exports fell 4.0% from R173.2bn, while imports dropped 4.2% from R158.8bn. The year-to-date trade surplus (January to April 2025) stood at R39.7bn slightly below the R40.6bn surplus for the same period in 2024. Sars attributed the export decline to reduced shipments of grapes, gold, and…

SA forced to adapt to new challenges as President Trump announces fresh round of import tariffs South Africa must adapt to new challenges as US President Donald Trump announced a fresh round of import tariff hikes of up to 50% on steel and aluminium this week, compounding the effects of April’s 25% increase, according to stakeholders and analysts. The local sector is still grappling with disrupted global supply chains, rising manufacturing costs, and reduced competitiveness for South African automotive products in the US market. Many South African businesses are now exploring alternative markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East to reduce reliance on the US. The announcement came as South Africa and other countries trading with the US benefited from a 90-day tariff suspension beyond the 10% base…

When world leaders engage, the assumption is always that they engage on issues based on verified facts, which their administrative staff are supposed to prepare. Under this assumption, we thought the meeting at the White House on 21 May between South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa, and US president Donald Trump would follow this pattern. Disappointingly, the televised meeting was horrifying to watch as it was based on misrepresenting the reality of life in South Africa. Issues of agriculture, farming and land (and rural crime) were central to the discussions. What is clear to us as agricultural economists is that the skewed views expressed by Trump about these issues originate in South Africa. This includes Trump’s statement: “But Blacks are not farmers.” In our work as agricultural economists, we have, in…

The JSE had a bumper month and year-to-date. Given all the growing uncertainties on the global and domestic geo-political front, investors and the public expected the worst for the share and foreign exchange markets during the month of May. Given the Trump administration’s chop-and-change announcements in the trade war between the US and other countries, like China, Canada, and European countries, as well as the jittery South Africa/US relations, it was expected by many members of the public that the economy and financial markets would go from better to worse. Table: Various share indices performances since the beginning of 2015 In contrast, share prices on the JSE reached record high levels and their best annual five months since the 2020 Covid-Virus equity downward streak, and all the main indices…

Dis-Chem Pharmacies’ share price slumped 5.5% on Friday despite reporting good annual earnings growth and solid revenue growth for the first quarter to May 27. Group revenue grew by 8.6% for the three months of the new financial year compared with the same time last year, while retail revenue was up 7.8%, supported by the opening of 9 pharmacy stores, with comparable pharmacy store revenue growth at 4.6%, the group said in a statement Friday. It plans to open a further 39 stores this year. Revenue increased 8% to R39.2 billion in the 12 months to February 29, 2025, while headline earnings a share (Heps) was up 20% to 137.5 cents. The final dividend was raised 23.8% to 27.85 cents, bringing the payout for the year 19.9% higher to 54.83…

Absa on Friday announced a strengthened Retail and Business Banking leadership team and operating model to boost its market competitiveness. Christine Wu and Geoffrey Lee, former chief executives for Everyday Banking and the Product Solutions Cluster respectively, have been appointed as interim co-chief executives for the newly formed Retail business. Absa veteran Faisal Mkhize, chief executive for Relationship Banking assumes the role of chief executive for Business Banking. “Today marks the beginning of a new era for Absa with the establishment of the Personal and Private Banking and the Business Banking divisions in South Africa,” said Charles Russon, Absa’s Interim Group CEO. “The strength of our personal and private banking and business banking franchises is integral to our performance as a Group, and this development bolsters a core revenue engine…

Fifth Harmony, the American girl group that rose to fame after competing on a reality singing competition, The X Factor in 2012, is reportedly in talks to reunite in 2026, without Camila Cabello. The pop group is made up of Ally Brooke, Normani Kordei, Dinah Jane Hansen, Lauren Jauregui and Cabello. The group’s history dates back to their auditions on The X Factor, where Simon Cowell, a judge on the show, saw potential in each of them and decided to put them together as a group. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Fifth Harmony is planning a major comeback in 2026, which would coincide with the 10th anniversary of their album 7/27 and the hit single, Work From Home, featuring singer and songwriter Ty Dolla $ign. Insiders reveal that the group…

Brazen scammers are impersonating Postbank officials and entering the homes of SASSA social grant beneficiaries in an effort to rob them of their money. This is according to Postbank spokesperson Bongani Diako, who on Friday urged SASSA social grant beneficiaries using its Black Cards and SASSA Gold Cards to be wary of the rise in fraud scams targeting their cards and PIN information. “The recent scam involves fraudsters impersonating Postbank officials and targeting social beneficiaries in their homes. The beneficiaries are then duped into handing over their Postbank grant cards and PIN information under the pretext that there is something that requires fixing on the cards; or fear is instilled in them that they will not receive their future grant payments if they don’t hand over their card’s PIN information,”…

A cultural clash is looming again between government and Zulu culturists over the virginity testing of young girls in KwaZulu-Natal following the directive of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL) which prevents the practice on girls below 16 years of age. The commission’s chairperson Thoko Mkhwanazi-Xaluva met Social Development MEC Mbali Shinga last week and directed that the testing of maidens below 16 years of age was illegal and should be stopped, however, culturists have vowed to defy this. Dr Nomagugu Ngobese, the founder of Nombukhubulwane Institute, a cultural body advocating for the preservation of African cultural practice said the practice will continue and will not be stopped. Ngobese said the practice has helped to reduce sexual violence…

Believe it or not, but amid the sprawling dominance of digital music platforms, compact discs (CDs) are experiencing a revival that seems almost conflicting in the age of streaming. Like vinyl records surging back into popularity over the past decade, CDs, which many believed had faded into obscurity, are once again capturing the interest of music enthusiasts across South Africa and beyond. Not so long ago, physical media formats felt like antiques of the past. The rapid rise of smartphones and digital streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music, and YouTube Music led to a noticeable decline in CD sales. Manufacturers even began to phase out CD drives from laptops and cars, further diminishing the physical format’s relevance. SA saw significant ramifications from this decline, with prominent music retail…

Businesses today are forced to navigate an increasingly perilous landscape of cyber threats, characterised by the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks. The financial repercussions are staggering, with the average cost of a data breach reaching millions of dollars. According to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024, the global average cost of a data breach in 2024 was $4.88 million (R88.6 million), which is a 10% increase over the previous year and the highest total ever. Beyond monetary losses, the erosion of customer trust and brand reputation can be irreparable. As cyber threats evolve, businesses must prioritise robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard their assets and ensure resilience in the face of this ever-present danger. However, despite the ever-increasing threat of cyberattacks, many organisations still lack effective controls and…

After almost 15 years of massive investment, frequent disappointment, and the occasional humiliation, Paris Saint-Germain finally got their hands on the Uefa Champions League trophy on Saturday — allowing their Qatari owners to revel in the glory of a historic and emphatic triumph. PSG had failed to secure European football’s biggest prize in previous eras despite squads featuring the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimović, Neymar, Kylian Mbappé, and even Lionel Messi. But they have finally succeeded — after pivoting away from assembling superstar line-ups and instead entrusting a brilliant coach, Luis Enrique, with a hungry and dynamic young team. PSG have arguably been Europe’s best side in 2025, but their performance against Inter Milan in Munich surpassed all expectations. A thumping 5-0 victory — the biggest win ever recorded in a…

PYRAMIDS (2) 2 Mayele 23’, Samy 56’ MAMELODI SUNDOWNS (0) 1 Rayners 75’ w Pyramids won 3-2 on aggregate It was a case of ‘so close, yet so far’ for Mamelodi Sundowns as they missed out on the CAF Champions League crown after losing 3–2 on aggregate to Pyramids in the final. Sundowns lost 2–1 in the second leg at 30 June Stadium on Sunday night, courtesy of goals from Fiston Mayele and Ahmed Samy, having drawn 1–1 in the first leg at home, Loftus Versfeld. The Brazilians were their own worst enemies in Cairo, conceding both goals through avoidable errors in each half. Mayele capitalised on a poor clearance by Grant Kekana in the first half, pouncing inside the box to unleash a low-driven strike past the goalkeeper. The…

Oscar Piastri drove with exemplary calm and control in a torrid race on Sunday to beat teammate and rival Lando Norris, as McLaren claimed their first Spanish Grand Prix victory since 2005 with a resounding one-two finish. The 24-year-old Australian came home 2.4 seconds clear of Norris to extend his lead in the Drivers’ Championship to 10 points, with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finishing third after a dramatic finale. Four-time champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull opted for a three-stop strategy, which cost him third place in the closing laps before he was handed a 10-second penalty for a collision with Mercedes’ George Russell, who finished fourth. It was Piastri’s fifth win of the season, the seventh of his career, and his eighth consecutive podium finish for McLaren – a feat…

Shares in Santova, the JSE-listed international supply chain solutions group, surged over 9% on Friday after after it had acquired 100% of The Seabourne Group, a logistics provider across the UK and Europe, for about R417.7 million. Santova’s share traded 9.33% higher to close at R8.20 on the JSE on Friday. The Seabourne Group has nine offices and warehouses in the UK, Netherlands, and France. Its services include Customs Clearing & Freight Forwarding, fulfilment centres, and boutique services such as in the publishing sector, mainly in subscription magazines. Santova is already represented in 11 countries through its offices in South Africa, Australia, China, Germany, Hong Kong, Mauritius, Netherlands, Singapore, UK, US, and Vietnam. Santova’s directors owned 21.05% of the group shares as of February 28, 2025, and there were no…

In a play on its "Phanda Phusha Play" slogan, Ithuba Lottery has introduced "No Pause, Just Play" as it confirmed a 12-month temporary extension of its operating licence, while the incumbent licence holder, Sizekhaya, prepares to put systems in place. In a statement yesterday, Ithuba said that after careful consideration and prioritising the interests of South Africans, it had reached an agreement with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition and the National Lotteries Commission to operate the South African National Lottery, ensuring its ongoing contribution to good causes. "As a proudly 100% black-owned South African operator, Ithuba remains steadfast in its commitment to operating the National Lottery with integrity, transparency, and for the benefit of South Africans. Participants can rest assured that all games, draws, and prize payouts will…

Norwegian renewable energy company Scatec has been named the preferred bidder for the 123 MW/492 MWh Haru Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in South Africa by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, as part of the third bid window of the country’s Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme. Under a 15-year agreement, Scatec will receive payments for providing storage capacity to the National Transmission Company of South Africa (NTCSA), which will use the capacity to stabilise the national grid. The project, with an estimated capital expenditure of R2.2 billion, will be financed through 90% non-recourse project debt and 10% equity from the owners. Scatec’s engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts account for approximately 80% of the total capex. “This award strengthens our position as a leading…

The story of the lamb and the lion bears testimony in today’s experience of water runs upstream. The poor contribute continuously to the wealth of the rich, and are surprised by the unexplained riches of the rich against the wretchedness of the poverty in which they languish. Water continues to run upstream instead of downstream. Nothing ever trickles, let alone down under the trickledown economy of neoliberals. It only floods upwards away from the poor. When the story of the lamb and the lion was told under kerosene lamp to enthused youth with soot packed nostrils and mealie pap filled gums decades before Milton Friedman market fundamentalism of the Chicago School indeed were prophesy accomplished in their life time. Decades later visited by crimson red gums with a dispersion of…

JSE-listed black-owned ICT company AYO Technology Solutions, which has received an offer from Sekunjalo Investments to acquire all its shares, said Friday its full-year results are expected to show a meaningful reduction in losses compared to the loss reported for the first half. AYO’s results for the six months to February 28 showed a resilient performance under difficult conditions, and the company was on track with a clear path toward significantly reducing losses compared to the prior full year, its directors said Friday evening. Revenue fell by 23% mainly due to the absence of one-time contracts from the previous year, as well as the unwinding of certain contracts that had contributed to prior-year revenue, but were not repeated. On a positive note, the cost of sales fell 24%, in line…

When a pop star starts climbing the charts and turning heads, it’s only a matter of time before Hollywood comes knocking. That’s the path Sabrina Carpenter seems to be on. After dominating the music scene and becoming a full-blown celebrity, she’s now reportedly being lined up for a role in the next Mamma Mia! film. Yes, the Espresso singer is said to be “sought for a role” in the third Mamma Mia! movie, which has been in the rumour mill for years. And now, thanks to a fresh update from long-time franchise producer Judy Craymer, it looks like the film might finally be taking shape. In a recent interview with Deadline, Craymer confirmed that Mamma Mia! 3 is “well into development,” adding, “We know what we want to do with…

Before I delve into the drama of the fifth season of The Real Housewives of Durban (RHOD), I would like to clarify some common misconceptions about reality shows. Yes, they have become the holy grail for TV networks and streaming platforms, propelling the content into trending territory and, in doing so, pushing up the viewership/streams. Hence, the deluge of content available at any given time and the renewals of popular shows. Of course, the juiciest storylines make the final cut – hence some characters cry foul after finding themselves pegged as villains. With RHOD and shows of a similar ilk, the wardrobe and make-up are always a talking point. The main characters always look cover-ready. I can’t imagine how many outfits they go through in one episode, let alone a…

The Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane has announced that online admissions for Grade 1 and Grade 8 for the 2026 academic year will open from July 24 until August 29,. The MEC stated that the online admissions system currently serves applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 only. He emphasised the importance of parents applying within the designated application period, as schools may reach full capacity, making late applications unavailable. “We will be doing aggressive marketing and campaigning to prepare parents for that particular application period,” said Chiloane. The department indicated that parents can only apply for five schools, and applications to other grades must be made directly at the schools. Parents are required to submit certified copies of their identity documents, the child’s birth certificate, and the clinic card…

THE government appears not to know the number of foreign nationals in the country’s labour market and is considering introducing quotas to limit them from competing for the few available technical and low skilled jobs. The national labour migration policy approved by Cabinet this week, has noted that imposing quotas is a worldwide phenomenon and that European Union member states also implement such measures for managing labour migration from developing countries. In South Africa, the Constitutional Court in 2022 affirmed that the constitutional reservation of the right to trade, occupation or profession to citizens is not uncommon in democracies and that the country has an obligation to protect its citizens’ interests. Despite the apex court’s judgment, the policy also accepted that a number of Supreme Court of Appeal rulings have…

Hollywood actor Ed Gale, best known for his portrayal of the creepy doll Chucky in the horror film Child’s Play, has passed away while in hospice care in Los Angeles. Details surrounding his death have not been made public yet. Confirming the news, his niece Kayse Gale took to Facebook to share an emotional tribute to her “fun uncle”. She recalled how he embarked on his journey to California at the age of 20 with nothing more than $41 and a dream that would ultimately manifest into a prolific Hollywood career. “Ed has taken his final bow and is now headlining in the afterlife ... Ed loved 7-Eleven hot dogs with disgusting amounts of ketchup. He enjoyed reminiscing about his glory days, DJing at the Plainwell roller rink. “He hated…

WHILE the Constitutional Court has declined leave to a law firm to directly approach the apex court in an urgent bid to overturn a directive introducing mandatory mediation in the Gauteng Division of the High Court, a vehicle accident victim who is also objecting to the directives will take her plight to court. The Durban-based woman, who is left a paraplegic following the accident, will turn to the Gauteng High Court, Pretoria later in June to ultimately have the directives issued by the head of the court overturned. She said her accident occurred six years ago and she eventually obtained a court date issued in 2023 for her hearing. Her matter is scheduled to be heard in August this year, but her case is now first subject to arbitration in…

After the Bulls had beaten Edinburgh and before the Sharks had kicked off against Munster, Jake White was asked which team he would prefer to play in this week’s semi-final. “I do have a preference,” the Bulls coach said. “If I wear my commercial hat, I want the Sharks to come to Loftus because we will get a full house. “If I am wearing my other hat, I wouldn’t mind playing Munster. I suppose I am talking myself into a corner here. What I am trying to say is that you have to beat whoever comes here if you think you are good enough to win this competition.” White has his wish. It is the Sharks, and Loftus will almost certainly sell out — not just because it is a…

As Bafana Bafana gear up for their upcoming international friendlies against Tanzania and Mozambique, national team coach Hugo Broos has voiced his support for three rising stars from Orlando Pirates looking to make their mark abroad. Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota (both 20), and Mbekezeli Mbokazi (19) have all impressed this season, earning spots in Broos’ final 23-man squad. However, the seasoned Belgian tactician is urging caution when it comes to their potential moves to Europe. Mofokeng, a 20-year-old sensation, has become a pivotal player for Pirates, contributing significantly to the team’s success across various competitions. Spanish giants Barcelona have reportedly expressed interest in both Mofokeng and Nkota, while Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly are believed to be monitoring Mbokazi. Underpinning his impact, Mofokeng has netted 18 goals and provided 22 assists…

With all the attention focused of Zakithi Nene's blistering world lead of 43.76 to take gold in the 400m at at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi on Saturday, there were also podium finishes for Bayanda Walaza in the 100m and Shaun Maswanganyi in the men's 200m contest. The achievements marked another stellar weekend for South African sprinters. Nene was the best of the SA athletes on the international track and field circuit this weekend. He became the second SA athlete to run under 44 seconds over the one-lap distance after world record holder Wayde van Niekerk. Nene finished well clear of Nigerian athlete Chidi Okezie, who took second place in 44.98. All eyes will be on the one-lap star as he heads for the Rome Diamond League meeting, to…

ACTOM has invested R32 million in a cutting-edge industrial fan manufacturing plant in Driehoek, Germiston, marking a significant step toward advancing South Africa’s industrial capabilities. The facility was officially opened by Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, who hailed it as a milestone in the country’s reindustrialization efforts. “This investment repositions South Africa as a globally competitive industrial economy, rooted in localization, innovation, and sustainability,” Tau said during the opening ceremony. “ACTOM’s commitment demonstrates how strategic government procurement, aligned with industrial policy, can drive tangible economic growth. This facility is not just a vote of confidence in our economy—it’s a bold leap toward building the energy and industrial infrastructure we need.” Tau further said the plant will manufacture large-scale industrial fans essential for key sectors such as energy,…

In a few weeks, Cosatu along with many other South Africans celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Freedom Charter drafted at the historic Congress of the People in Kliptown by the African National Congress led Alliance. This visionary document, that declared boldy, that South Africa belongs to all who live in it, provided the foundation for our internationally respected Constitution and much of what government seeks to achieve. A discussion needs to be held on whether the South African National Defence Force is able to fulfill its constitutionally mandated role today of defending the Constitution? The worrying answer that has been appearing over many years is that it may struggle. All nations require the capacity to defend themselves not only from other nations’ governments’ adventurism but increasingly from non-state threats.…

South African investment holding company Huge Group is positioning itself for long-term growth, despite the challenging economic and political landscape, it said in its annual report released on Friday. With assets under management of R1.463 billion for 2024, the company is actively refining its investment strategy, focusing on ecosystems and technology enablement. Its investment portfolio companies comprise: n Huge TNS is a network enabler offering a comprehensive suite of data, voice, and network services, along with ICT hardware solutions for corporate businesses, small and medium enterprises (SMME) and small home offices. n Huge Connect recently embarked on a process of pivoting the business to incorporate a much broader, full-service IoT proposition for enterprise and SMME clients. n Huge Distribution is a customer-centered, channel-only telecoms and renewable energy solutions distributor serving…

After an extensive search that saw over 30 000 aspiring young actors audition for the highly-anticipated Harry Potter television series, HBO has finally chosen the three wizards who will bring the show to life. Dominic McLaughlin will take on the role of Harry Potter, while Arabella Stanton will play the brilliant and resourceful Hermione Granger and Alastair Stout is set to portray the loyal and heartwarming Ron Weasley. “After an extraordinary search led by casting directors Lucy Bevan and Emily Brockmann, we are delighted to announce we have found our Harry, Hermione and Ron. “The talent of these three unique actors is wonderful to behold, and we cannot wait for the world to witness their magic together onscreen,” wrote showrunner Francesca Gardiner and executive producer and director Mark Mylod in…

A truck driver has been arrested and charged for drunk driving after he was found to be more than 20 times over the legal alcohol limit. MEC for Transport and Human Settlements in KwaZulu-Natal, Siboniso Duma, said the driver blew 2.0mg/1000ml, 20 times more than the legal limit of 0,10mg /1000ml. A second driver was also arrested after he tested three times over the legal limit. He was stopped on the N3, at Van Reenen’s Pass. “Weeks ago, we laid to rest nine victims of a horrific accident involving a truck in Empangeni along the N2. “Families lost their loved ones and breadwinners, with children becoming orphans as a result of one reckless truck driver,” the MEC said. In a meeting with senior management, Duma mandated the Road Traffic Inspectorate…

An elderly Mpumalanga man, who was falsely accused of raping a child and had to spend more than 16 months in jail under harrowing circumstances, before the charge was withdrawn against him, is set to receive R1.5 million in damages from the police. The now 70-year-old, only identified as MM, turned to the Gauteng High Court, Johannesburg, where he claimed R30.3m in damages. This was calculated at R60 000 a day for approximately 505 days. To make matters worse, MM was only released from prison a month after the charge was withdrawn against him. The police failed to either inform him or the prison authorities immediately after his name was cleared. MM told the court that upon his release, he faced stigma in his community and even in his home…

A Muslim man who was imprisoned in Chad on grounds of his sexual orientation and fled to South Africa after he was released as he fears persecution, turned to court after home affairs officials here refused to grant him refugee status. The man, only identified as MA, on Friday headed to the urgent court at the Western Cape High Court, where he obtained a lifeline. He asked that the decision by the Refugee Status Determination Officer, in refusing his refugee status, be overturned. Judge Gayaat da Silva-Salie ordered that his application for asylum status had to be heard afresh, by another officer. The judge remarked that the reasons given by the officer for refusing his application were nonsensical. MA fled to South Africa to join his lover, a doctor…

It is saddening to note that the Coronation Fund Managers Stewardship Activities Report (Business Report, May 29) uncritically embraces the false globalist ideology of ESG (environmental, social, governance). Proudly, the Coronation Fund Managers declare that they “assess and advocate for improvements in their climate change strategies.” Clearly, despite Coronation’s research capacity, they have wittingly or unwittingly allowed themselves to be shepherded by the controlled sirens of pliant science and the mass media in believing that human activity can influence climate change. Uncorrupted science and history have proved that warming periods occurred in millennia before fossil fuels were being widely used as they are today. Uncorrupted science has also shown that temperature changes occur as a result of the inconsistency of the Earth’s elliptical path around the sun and the slight…

Water is not only a basic human right, but also the foundation of development, dignity, and stability. As we confront the dual pressures of climate change and increasing water demand, the call to invest boldly and urgently in our water infrastructure is more critical than ever. This moment demands leadership, collaboration, and above all, unity. At the Orange-Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) Climate Resilient Investment Conference in Maseru, Lesotho, recently, I reaffirmed South Africa’s deep and unwavering commitment to regional water cooperation. As the host nation and an active member of ORASECOM, South Africa has long championed the sustainable and equitable management of transboundary water resources. These rivers not only feed our economies and cities, but they also bind us as a region. But our shared future hinges on action. ORASECOM’s…

Banyana Banyana coach Desiree Ellis says it will be important for the team to win their final Three Nations match against Zambia on Tuesday as they continue preparations for the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Banyana started the tournament on a high, beating neighbours Botswana 3–2 at the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Wednesday. It was a patchy display, though, as they went into the break 3–1 up, only to concede another goal in the second half, making for a nervy finish. Ellis knows that mistakes are part and parcel of football, and that’s why she won’t be hard on the players if they make errors at this stage of the build-up to WAFCON. Banyana will need to produce a sterling campaign in Morocco, where they will head as…

John Plumtree has been involved in rugby in one form or another for half a century, but Saturday night’s bizarre conclusion to the United Rugby Championship (URC) quarter-final against Munster was a first even for the seasoned Sharks head coach. After a gruelling 100 minutes of high-stakes rugby, with the scores locked at 24-24 and no breakthrough during 20 minutes of extra time, the match had to be decided by an unprecedented penalty shoot-out – a scenario more familiar to football than to the rugby field. Instead of traditional conversions, each team nominated three kickers to take shots at goal from various positions across the pitch. As the second period of extra time wound down, the Sharks' coaching box was suddenly a hive of activity, scrambling to locate the map…

Triple-defending Roland Garros champion Iga Swiatek battled into the quarter-finals of the French Open on Sunday, overcoming a bruising first-set loss to eventually defeat former Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina. The four-time holder of the Coupe Suzanne Lenglen displayed great resilience to win 1–6, 6–3, 7–5 in two hours and 29 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. Swiatek will next face Elina Svitolina for a place in the semi-finals, after the Ukrainian earlier saved three match points to eliminate last year’s runner-up, Jasmine Paolini. After winning Roland Garros last year to complete a remarkable treble of clay-court victories in Madrid, Rome, and Paris, the Pole’s turbulent 2025 season looked set to hit a new low as she found herself a set and a break down against the 12th-seeded Kazakh. Following early exits…