Sekekete takes over the role from the 88-Test Springbok veteran, Ruan Pienaar. The World Cup winner led the team on 35 occasions since joining from Montpellier.

Recently Sekekete was named as the Cheetahs Forward of the Year during their awards function at Brandkop in Bloemfontein.

The big and consistent second-rower said he is humbled to be appointed as the teams new captain.

“It's a great honour for me to captain the Toyota Cheetahs, said the 28-year-old.

“I'm humbled to have the backing of the coaches and players to allow me to lead on and off the field and to be trusted with this big responsibility. I'm looking forward to the journey.”

Pienaar in his turn explained as he is in the twilight of his career he wants to play the game without the added pressure of captaining the side.

“I'm nearing the end of my rugby career, and I want to focus on my game and enjoy it without the extra pressure of captaincy.”

Sekekete’s first task in the role will be to lead the Cheetahs against the Bulls on 30 September in Bloemfontein in their first game of the Toyota Challenge.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport