Jimmy Stonehouse is eager for the Pumas to measure themselves against overseas opposition in this year’s Toyota Challenge.
The Pumas, Cheetahs and Griquas will test their mettle against Black Lion from Georgia – who also play in the EPCR Challenge Cup with the Cheetahs – Portugal and Romania A in the Toyota Challenge Series.
All three nations have qualified for the 2027 World Cup in Australia, where Georgia and Romania are in the same group as South Africa, while Portugal return to the Free State capital, where they faced the Springboks in front of a sold-out crowd in 2024.
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The first leg of the competition – in which the three South African teams will face the three visiting sides – is scheduled for Bloemfontein on 5, 10 and 14 June at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. The second leg will play out in Tbilisi in Georgia in October.
The Pumas coach has described the series as a huge opportunity for the union.
“The series is something big for us,” Stonehouse told Netwerk24.
“All the local unions are trying to play in international competitions so that they can get that exposure. After all, it’s a good way to attract more sponsors.”
While the Pumas would have preferred playing in front of their home supporters in Mbombela, Stonehouse admits they are comfortable with the current arrangement.
“Although you would love to play matches in front of your home crowd, we are not unhappy about playing in Bloemfontein,” he said.
“I think it would have been far more expensive to also play matches at other venues around South Africa.”
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The Pumas have previous experience in the Toyota Challenge, having faced teams such as Ireland’s emerging side in Bloemfontein in past editions.
This year, however, brings a new dimension.
The overseas leg of the tournament will take place in in October, shortly after the conclusion of the Currie Cup final on 12 September.
For Stonehouse, the value of the tournament extends far beyond results.
“The series will also give our players the opportunity to compete at a higher level,” he said.
“The players want to know how they measure up against international players.”
Photo: Johan Orton/Gallo Images
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