27 Sep
The 2025-26 United Rugby Championship kicks off with the Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Stormers each dealing with new coaches, injury scares and squad rotation. Handré Pollard returns to the Bulls, the Lions start with a tough tour, the Sharks juggle Springbok call‑ups and the Stormers host Leinster while missing key players. All four sides must adapt fast as the top‑four race tightens.