By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
Mark Alexander will serve a third and final term as South African Rugby Union (SARU) president after being nominated unopposed on Monday, 14 April 2026.
Alexander, who first took the role in an interim capacity in 2016 (following the resignation of Oregan Hoskins) was nominated by representatives of 11 Saru’s member unions.
He will formally begin his new term at the annual general meeting in Cape Town on 14 May.
Meanwhile eight nominations were received for the two open positions on the SARU Executive Council.
The current holders of the roles, Mr Hennie Baartman and Mr Randall September, are standing for election for a second term but are opposed (in alphabetical order) by Adv Zuko Badli (nominated by Border), Ms Zelda Freitag (Mpumalanga), Ms Mimi Tau (Blue Bulls), Ms Mpho Sekulisa (Free State), Mr Ryno Opperman (Free State), and Ms Tania Vermaak (Eastern Province).
Meanwhile Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) celebrates a landmark moment in its ongoing partnership with the Cheetahs as they sign Springbok star, Faf de Klerk, on a two-year agreement starting June 2026.
De Klerk’s anticipated arrival brings a proven international track record and a championship mindset into Cheetahs lineup at a pivotal time for the team. Renowned for his intensity, speed of delivery, and ability to dictate play under pressure, he is widely regarded as one of the game’s most decorated scrumhalves.
De Klerk’s return to South Africa is a defining moment for the Cheetahs and the team’s intent, ambition, and confidence for the 2026 season ahead. This landmark move is expected to excite players, staff and supporters alike.
With over 60 appearances for the Springboks, de Klerk has been part of the most successful eras of Springbok rugby, lifting the trophy at the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup.
His club career has taken him across three major rugby markets, with impactful spells at the Lions (South Africa), Sale Sharks (England), and Yokohama Canon Eagles (Japan), where his performances has earned him global recognition.