The Griquas have had a much longer preseason than the other teams as they were building towards defending their SuperSport Rugby Challenge title before the sport went into lockdown.

Niell Jordaan has the unique distinction of being the first captain to lead a Cheetahs team on the field in the Guinness PRO14, when they face Ulster at the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast, back in September of 2017.

 Jordaan, who now plies his trade at the Peacock Blues now, told OFM Sport that their neighbours will be the perfect test.

“Next weekend’s match against the Cheetahs is always a good derby.

“It will be a good way to test ourselves on the work that we have done. We will be able to see where we stand.

“Are really excited to be able to get back on the field and do what we love.

“Training is fun, but after more than a year you just want to get on the field again.”

The two warm-up matches which will be played in Kimberley and Bloemfontein will be made up of chukkas, which will serve a purpose especially seeing that the players are not match-fit, and to help combat the warmer conditions in Central South Africa.

According to the draft Currie Cup fixtures, the Griquas will travel to face the Blue Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in round one.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport