NEWS
MARLINS STUN PREMIERS AS CRU PREMIERSHIP RACE HEATS UP

Tasminnie ISIMELI By Tasminnie ISIMELI | June 1, 2026

MARLINS STUN PREMIERS AS CRU PREMIERSHIP RACE HEATS UP

Round 5 of the Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) Premiership delivered one of the biggest upsets of the season, with Theodist MBB Marlins defeating reigning back-to-back premiers Valley Hunters 19-12 to announce themselves as genuine contenders in the 2026 competition.

The result has shaken up the premiership race and demonstrated that the Marlins are capable of challenging the competition's established powerhouses.

While Valley Hunters suffered their first major setback of the season, Brothers continued their unbeaten run and successfully defended the Douglas Guise Cup with a hard-fought 15-12 victory over Nova.

Five rounds into the season, Brothers remain the only undefeated team in the Premiership and continue to lead the competition's pace setters.

Harlequins also strengthened their premiership credentials with a dominant 37-12 win over University. The victory lifts them to second place on the ladder, boasting the best points differential in the competition.

Across the other divisions, the race for premiership honours is also intensifying.

University Piggies have climbed to the top of the A Grade standings following another strong performance, while Wanderers continue their unbeaten run in the Under-23 Boys competition.

In the Under-20 Boys division, Kone Sharks remain undefeated and firmly in control of the competition after maintaining their perfect start to the season.

The Open Women's competition is also beginning to take shape, with Valley Hunters and Juggernauts establishing themselves as early frontrunners.

With five rounds completed, each division is beginning to develop its own storyline as teams position themselves for the second half of the season.

The contenders are emerging, the challengers are closing the gap, and the battle for premiership glory is only getting more intense.