The End of Newlands

Newlands was once the pride of South African rugby. It is still the oldest, active, Test ground. However, it may soon be consigned to the history books.

Despite vehement denials from Western Province officials, all indications are that the grand old dame’s days are numbered.

Unlike Lansdowne Road, previously the oldest active Test ground in the World, Newlands won’t be refurbished or even given a new name. It looks set to become a business park, with shops and residential units.

The Stormers and Western Province would play their home matches at the purpose built (for the 2010 Soccer World Cup) Cape Town stadium in Green Point.

If the reports (also referred to as rumours), which grow stronger with each passing day, prove to be true, England’s 25-10 win over the Springboks last month was the last Test to be played at the once iconic venue. It also means that when the Stormers host the Sharks on Saturday, July 7, it will be the last Super Rugby game to be played at Newlands. There will be a handful of Currie Cup games left this year.

rugby365 sat down with world acclaimed rugby historian Paul Dobson to speak about the demise of what was once a paragon of success.

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