Specman is tipped to earn Springbok selection for the incoming tours of Georgia and the British & Irish Lions, and his spell at the Stormers is in order to get some game time.

Specman played for the Cheetahs on Saturday in their shock 43-28 defeat to the Invitational XV, and in this game, he had little opportunity to prove himself.

Specman was set to represent South Africa at the upcoming Olympic Games with the Blitzboks for a second time, however, he opted to rather commit to the fifteen man code, and to try and earn a Springbok jersey.

Meanwhile, the captain Ruan Pienaar, told OFM Sport that they need to take a step up.

“We are a bit rusty because we haven't played for a long time, but that is not an excuse. Especially if you played against a team that has been together for three days. That is disappointing.

“Hats off to them. They played really well and showed urgency. At lineout time they put us under pressure and at the breakdown they slowed our ball down really well.

“It was frustrating and as coach Hawies said there aren't many positives to take from the game.”

The Cheetahs will face the Leopards in Potchefstroom on Saturday.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport