Griquas will face a tough challenge against the Pumas in Kimberley on Thursday, writes TYRONE ENGEL.

In what is effectively a top-of-the-table battle, log-leaders Griquas will be hoping to strengthen their position against the fourth-placed Pumas.

With three rounds of the qualifiers remaining, Griquas, the Boland Cavaliers and Pumas are the favourites to qualify alongside the six Super Rugby unions for the Currie Cup Premier Division, which kicks off in September.

The Griffons are 11 points behind the Pumas and the only other team with an outside chance of qualifying. But they will need to win all three of their remaining matches against the Sharks XV, EP Kings and Pumas.

The Pumas need just five log points from their next three fixtures, against Griquas, the Leopards and Griffons to ensure qualification.

In other matches this weekend, the Leopards host the Kings in Potchefstroom, the Free State XV travel to George to face the SWD Eagles, the Griffons host the Sharks XV, the Valke welcome the Golden Lions XV to Kempton Park, the Boland Cavaliers host neighbours Western Cape in Piketberg, and the Blue Bulls take on Border in East London.

Currie Cup Qualifier teams (Round 14)

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