Current season, competition or edition: 2023 Mzanzi Challenge | |
| Sport | Rugby union |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2023 |
| First season | 2023 |
| Ceased | 2023 |
| No. of teams | 10 |
| Country | South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, United States, Zimbabwe |
| Last champion(s) | Falcons |
| Most titles | Falcons (1) |
The 2023 Currie Cup First Division ran concurrently with the Mzansi Challenge, which, in addition to the six South African sides, featured four additional international sides; the Welwitschias from Namibia, the Zimbabwe Goshawks, the Simbas from Kenya and the San Clemente Rhinos from the USA. Initially, the Tel Aviv Heat from Israel were due to play. However, after pressure from the South African BDS, SARU withdrew their invitation to the Heat, who were replaced by the Rhinos.[1][2]
The SA Cup became the long term replacement for the Mzansi Challenge.[1]
- ^ Smilk, Carin M. (24 March 2023). "Major Jewish groups urge US rugby team to pull out of South Africa tournament". JNS.org. Retrieved 17 June 2023.
- ^ "South African Rugby Union withdraws invitation to Tel Aviv Heat". MSN. Retrieved 17 June 2023.