The injury to the centre Frans Steyn is a big blow to the team and it is expected that Chris Smit will get a rare starting opportunity against the side from Nelspruit.

Reinhardt Fortuin could once again also start at flyhalf in the must-win game for both teams.

The Cheetahs assistant coach, Charl Strydom, told OFM Sport that Steyn’s injury will afford players some game time.

“We've got depth in the team at centre and those guys need game time to perform at that level week-in, week-out.

“We gave some of the guy’s game time against the South African under-20's and that was basically the only game they've played in.

“It does give you some depth, so if something does happen in the semi-finals you have the confidence to replace someone like Frans Steyn with the rest of the guys.”

Hawies Fourie will announce his team to tackle the Pumas at 10:30 on Thursday morning.

Friday night’s game at the Toyota Stadium will kick-off at 18:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport