The two oldest rugby Provinces in South Africa, Western Province and Griquas will continue a rivalry dating back to the late 1880's when they meet in an Currie Cup qualifying match at Newlands in Cape Town on Friday evening.
Western Province, founded in 1883 and Griqualand West, founded in 1886, played a major role in the establishment of the Currie Cup, South Africa's premier domestic title. In 1891, the famous gold trophy was donated by Sir Donald Currie on the departure of WE Maclaglan's British Isles touring team to South Africa. During the tour, the trophy was presented to Griqualand West for being the best Provincial opponents of the British Isles. Griquas in turn presented the trophy to the SA Rugby Board for the inter-Provincial competition, which would become known as the Currie Cup.
Western Province were the inaugural winners of the trophy in 1892 and won four times again in 1894, 1895, 1896 and 1898 - before Griquas won it for the first time in 1899.
Over the past century, Western Province has earned more accolades and titles, but history shows that the rivalry between these two Provinces has, nevertheless, been intense and hard fought. The last five meetings between them in 2004 (twice), 2003 (twice) and 2002 (once) have been pretty one-sided in favour of Western Province, whilst in the late-90's and early 2000's there was very little to choose between them.
This season so far, Griquas have shown themselves to be a gritty and physical outfit that is hard to wear down. They might not play the "prettiest" rugby but is has been effective in seeing them win three out of four starts so far.
Western Province has shown consistent improvements in their game, winning four out of five matches to date. Their home victories over Griquas in recent seasons have been convincing and they will start as favourites at Newlands. They have a host of talented young backs who are full of running and this might be where they will have a distinct advantage.
A key factor for the visitors will be the veteran "general" Braam van Straaten, who will be looking to control matters with the boot to bring the big Griquas pack into the game at set play.