Stanbic Black Pirates and Platinum Credit Heathens are set for a high stakes semi final playoff this weekend at Kings Park Arena, with the winner booking a place in the 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership final against Toyota Buffaloes.
Former Rugby Cranes international Victor Wadia has offered his prediction ahead of the clash, backing Heathens to progress in what he expects to be a tightly contested encounter.
Wadia, who represented Uganda between 2002 and 2010 and played club rugby from 1998 to 2019 for sides including KOBS, Impis RFC, Entebbe Mongers and Entebbe Secondary School, believes squad depth and experience will be crucial.
“Considering the results from the first round, Heathens stand a better chance of winning the second game if their missing stars who didn’t play last weekend’s game are available,” Wadia said.
He warned that even a win might not guarantee qualification, pointing to what he expects to be a narrow aggregate outcome.
“The question be, will they win the final? Because I expect a tight game with close scores which may not allow them to make the finals should they win the semis.”
Wadia also pointed to the youthful nature of the Heathens side in the first leg as a key factor in his assessment.
“My prediction is based on the fact that, Heathens fielded a younger, and inexperienced team in the first round.”
Despite that, he leaned towards Heathens getting the job done, highlighting their history and winning culture.
“Secondly, Pedigree! So I feel they will break Pirates.”
Looking ahead to the tactical battle, Wadia expects fine margins to decide the contest.
“I know both teams have prepared well, looking at the technical abilities of the 2 coaches, it will boil on games management, set pieces and territorial play. Fans should expect an interesting, and nail biting match!”
The winner will face Toyota Buffaloes in the championship final as the race for the 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership title reaches its decisive stage.
