This comes as the Cheetahs recorded an outstanding 40-34 win over the Sharks in Saturday in Bloemfontein.

The winger, Enver Brandt, and the centre, David Brits, each scored a brace of tries for the Cheetahs, while the flyhalf, Siya Masuku converted all four tries and also slotted three penalties for a 100% kicking record in the game.

Baia Mare in their turn are in Bloemfontein and they mean business as they thumped the Free State XV 72-14. It has to be said that the Free State XV was made up of mainly clubs players, but the Romanian outfit will still put the Cheetahs to the test.

The Cheetahs coach, Hawies Fourie, said their performance against a strong Sharks out fit proves that they belong in international competitions.

“I'm satisfied with the performance and what we want to achieve.

“We want to show that we are still relevant and that we see ourselves as part of the big five.

“It's not a matter of the big four are playing in the United Rugby Championships as we are out in the cold.

“It's not about making a statement to anyone. It's just to show that there is still some fight left in the Cheetahs and we want to go places and still play international rugby.”

The Cheetahs and Baia Mare lock-horns at 17:30 on Friday evening at the Toyota Stadium.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport