In addition, three international teams will participate in the tournament as Emerging Ireland, Italy A and the USA Eagles.

The USA will be using the tournament as preparation for their Rugby World Cup qualifiers in Dubai.

The defending Currie Cup champions, the Pumas, will also be playing in Bloemfontein, however, their matches do not form a part of the Toyota Challenge itself.

Last year, Baia Mare of Romania competed in the tournament, as well as Diables Barcelona of Spain.

The Cheetahs' coach, Hawies Fourie, told OFM Sport it’s exciting to welcome quality international competition.

“It is great to play against international teams as well. Since 2019 we haven't played a lot of international rugby.

“Three of the four games are against opponents from other countries. That just adds a lot to the tournament and they will be stronger teams.

“I think it will draw a lot of spectators and media coverage. It is good for us to play against those teams. We want to measure ourselves against great and better teams to be able to compete in the European Challenge Cup later in the year.”

On 30 September the Griquas tackle the Irish at 13:45 and at 16:15 the Cheetahs face Italy.

Friday, 30 September 2022: 

13h45: Griquas vs Emerging Ireland

16h15: Cheetahs vs Italy A (Toyota Challenge match)

Wednesday, 5 October 2022:

17h00: Pumas vs Emerging Ireland

19h00: Griquas vs Italy A

Sunday, 9 October 2022:

11h00: Pumas vs Italy A

13h00: Cheetahs vs Emerging Ireland (Toyota Challenge Match)

Friday, 14 October 2022:

18h00: Cheetahs vs USA (Toyota Challenge Match)

Friday, 21 October 2022:

13h45: Pumas vs USA National A

16h15: Cheetahs vs Griquas (Toyota Challenge Match)

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport