The Cheetahs have decided to leave Faf de Klerk out of their 28-man squad for the upcoming Toyota Challenge matches in Tbilisi. In a strategic move by Coach Frans Steyn, several players who have experienced intense seasons, particularly in the Currie Cup, are being rested to maintain their condition for the EPCR Challenge Cup. The team will set off their European campaign with a match against Bayonne on October 18.
The tour schedule includes games against three diverse teams: Portugal's Lusitanos on September 24, Spain's Iberians on September 29, and Georgia's own Black Lion on October 4. The inclusion of Currie Cup champions Griquas and the Pumas highlights the competitive nature of the tournament.
"The focus is primarily on match fitness and allowing players to get valuable game time, particularly those returning from injury. It is important that we get them back to full fitness and into a competitive environment."
Emerging talents such as prop Sibabalwe Booi, flyhalf Darius Erwee, and centre Duncan Basson will be joining the fray in Georgia. This presents an opportunity for these athletes to gain experience in the senior team setup. Additionally, loose forward Siya Ningiza will debut for the Cheetahs post-injury recovery. There's also a comeback trail for utility back Ntokozo Makhaza and new recruit, hooker Juandré Schoeman, who recently transferred from the Bulls.
The touring roster for the Cheetahs is as specified: 1. Duncan Basson 2. Sibabalwe Booi 3. Aidon Davis 4. Darius Erwee 5. Marco Jansen van Vuren 6. Daniel Maartens 7. Ntokozo Makhaza 8. Matome Manyma 9. Mihlali Mosi 10. Sasko Ndlovu 11. Jandré Nel 12. Tielman Niewoudt 13. Siya Ningiza 14. Tebogo Nkosi 15. Litha Nkula 16. John-Kelly Okonkwo 17. Ben Pitout 18. Shaun Ray 19. Juandré Schoeman 20. Tiaan Swanepoel 21. Arno van der Merwe 22. Louis van der Westhuizen 23. Juan Venter 24. Stefan Venter 25. Erich Visser 26. Sisonke Vumazonke 27. Carl Wegner 28. Ethan Wentzel
This tour not only provides essential playtime for those returning from injuries but also incorporates valuable international exposure for the team's younger and less experienced players, gearing up for more robust challenges in the future.
