James Tedder, fullback of the Sanlam Boland Kavaliers, returns to action this weekend after missing the round four Carling Currie Cup fixture against the Vodacom Bulls in Wellington.
The 28-year-old Kearsney College old boy sat out last week with a back niggle but has been cleared to play and will line up in Mbombela against Jimmy Stonehouse’s Airlink Pumas.
With an away victory in Mbombela all but securing a semi-final spot for Hawies Fourie’s side, Tedder’s return brings both stability and attacking threat. Known for his calm presence and reliable kicking game, the 1.91m, 95kg fullback also relishes the physical battle when taking on opposition defensive systems.
“I’m really looking forward to being back this weekend for a big game in Nelspruit against the Pumas. It was tough missing out last week, but I’m ready to give my best again,” he said.
He added that conditions could play a role: “I think it’s a bit different this weekend with the (expected) weather being hotter in Mbombela, but as always we’re going to throw the ball around, play an exciting brand of rugby and see if we can score plenty of tries.”
The Kavas’ exciting backline has been one of the team’s most potent weapons this season, and Tedder is quick to praise those around him. “Having [Donovan] Don, Xava [Xavier Mitchell] and Marcqwien [Titus] around me makes it easy to play at 15. They’re outstanding in attack – I can just give them the ball and let them express themselves. Defensively, our communication is strong, and that helps a lot too.”
Tedder, who made his name in the Varsity Cup with the UCT Ikeys before joining the Lions in 2022, also seems to have struck up a good understanding with experienced flyhalf, Ashlon Davids. The latter took charge of the kicking duties against the Bulls and did a sterling job – both out of hand and at posts – as his 100% record suggests.
“Ash and I also have a great relationship on and off the field, which makes decision-making simple. Sometimes, if he feels the pressure, I’ll take on the kicking, and if I feel it, he steps up. We complement each other well, and it makes our jobs so much easier.”
Since joining Boland from the French Nationale 1 club, Albi, Tedder says he has been impressed by the environment. “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Boland so far. It’s been incredible to be part of this journey with such a committed coach and a special team environment. After a tough spell in France, it’s refreshing to be back in such a positive space. I’m excited to see how far we can take this Boland team.”
Airlink Pumas vs Sanlam Boland Kavaliers
Date: Friday, 22 August 2025
Venue: Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
Kick-off: 17h00
Referee: Cwengile Jadezweni
Broadcast: SuperSport