While the Cheetahs have just one match remaining in the competition this season, Olivier is expected to be sided for between 4 and 6 weeks after sustaining an injury to his MCL in the knee during the 39-13 win over the Dragons.

Olivier becomes the third Cheetahs player to be sidelined with a knee injury in the space of a week after William Small-Smith picked up an injury against the Ospreys.

Heading into the game against the Ospreys, the lock Justin Basson landed badly during lineout time and totally blew his knee out. His injury sees him missing the rest of the year and he has a nine-month recovery period.

Olivier was set to miss out of the Cheetahs mini-tour to Glasgow recently, however, an injury to Junior Pokomela saw him being included at the 11th hour.

Olivier was meant to rest during this time due to a heavy workload throughout the season.

The Cheetahs coach, Franco Smith, told OFM Sport that the injury is somewhat of a blessing in blessing in disguise.

“It’s an MCL injury, and at this stage, I know from personal experience that it will be between four and six weeks.

“It comes at the right time, but also at the wrong time.

“Most of his recovery time will be during the preseason, so that is fortunate. He will, however, be doubtful for the game against the Kings.”

The good news for the Cheetahs is that the season captain, Oupa Mohoje, will have recovered from his knee injury in time for the Currie Cup. Small-Smith, Junior Pokomela, and Schalk van der Merwe are also expected to be ready for the domestic competition.

The Cheetahs tackle the Southern Kings next week Saturday at the Toyota Stadium.

Current squad injuries - Justin Basson (knee), Aidon Davis (broken leg), Oupa Mohoje (knee), Junior Pokomela (back), William Small-Smith (knee), Schalk van der Merwe (groin).

@MorganPiek OFM Sport