South African franchises continue to reshape the landscape of the United Rugby Championship South Africa tournament, proving to be an “unbelievably challenging” yet “great addition” to the league, according to Munster fly-half JJ Hanrahan.
Now in their sixth year in the competition, South Africa’s four powerhouses—the Stormers, Bulls, Sharks, and Lions—have firmly established their presence. Overall, South African teams have claimed 162 victories in North vs. South clashes. In contrast, Northern Hemisphere sides have won just 94 matches.The South African clubs opened their URC season in style by sweeping all four opening matches. Furthermore, three of those wins came with bonus points, which immediately set a high standard for the competition.
Another round of cross-continent contests takes place this week. Most notably, the action features a high-stakes Saturday clash between the Bulls and Munster at historic Thomond Park.
JJ Hanrahan on the Challenge
Munster’s 34-year-old fly-half JJ Hanrahan knows firsthand how formidable these opponents can be.
“They’ve added hugely, and it’s incredibly competitive,” said Hanrahan. “It’s four extra high-quality teams. Consequently, they bring a different dynamic in terms of physicality and pace. Given the size of their men and the speed of their backs, we face a style we haven’t always seen in past years. Therefore, I think their presence is brilliant, to be honest.”