The Cheetahs will be playing in the European Challenge Cup in what will be their first international competition since early 2020.

The Cheetahs were en route to the PRO14 play-offs in 2020 before the Covid-19 pandemic ended their campaign and then they were booted out of the competition which is now known as the United Rugby Championship.

The Cheetah captain, Victor Sekekete, told OFM Sport that they want to impress.

“We are back now from a break, and it was a much-needed one,” said the towering lock.

“Especially after the successful Toyota Challenge we had.

“I agree, we don't have a lot of international experience in the team, but the opportunity has proved to us that we can do it, regardless of the experience or not.

“We have a couple of guys that have played in PRO14, and the likes of Ruan Pienaar, Frans Steyn and Robert Ebersohn that have played in the Challenge. I myself have also played in the PRO14 before. “Luckily, I know the Scarlets and I have played against them. That in itself will help a bit.

“The excitement in the camp is more that we made it into Europe again. Everyone is looking forward to taking the opportunity and going to showcase what they have.”

The Cheetahs face Section Paloise on 10 December in Pau in their first match of the competition.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport