The Cheetahs will be playing in just their third match of the competition when they face the Pumas in Nelspruit tomorrow.

The Cheetahs last match in the tournament was on 2 February when they beat the Bulls 38-25 at Loftus Versfeld.

Fourie admitted that the long turnaround makes their preparation challenging.

“It feels a bit too much”, said Fourie.

“As a coach as well, your prep is done in the first week and in the second week you don't know what to do and some you feel a bit lazy because you've already done all your homework.

“It is difficult, but it is the game for most of the teams in the Currie Cup. Ourselves, Griquas, Pumas, Lions and Western Province all play with separate squad. So, it's the same for the most of the teams. “It's only the Bulls and sometimes the Sharks that sort changes their URC and Currie Cup teams a little bit.

“The other five teams are in the same boat and you have to adapt.

“From May onwards the last past of the competition it will get back to normal so we look forward to take.

“April will be a challenge because there will only be one game in the middle of the month. It will be a difficult time to deal with but we've planned for that accordingly.

“We've got to deal with what the situation is but we are just thankful that we can play in a double-round Currie Cup.”

Tomorrow’s game between the Pumas and Cheetahs at the Mbombela Stadium kicks off at 14:30. Tonight at 19:00 the Tafel Lager Griquas host Western Province in Kimberley.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport