The Cheetahs are preparing to compete in the European Challenge Cup as they make a welcome return in an international competition.

The Cheetahs face the Sharks on Friday in Durban, while next week they will face the Currie Cup Division 1 champions in Welkom.

Fourie told OFM Sport that they need time on the field before heading overseas.

“We are really thankful for the opportunity to go and play against the Sharks in Durban on Friday,” said Fourie.

“The two things that I wanted were to play against quality opposition before we go overseas, and to play in Durban will help us because of the humidity.

“We will have to adapt and play the wet weather game that we have been working on over the past two weeks. We will like to see where we are with our game plan.

“It's important for us to get the team ready to go and play in the European Challenge Cup," said Fourie.

“All of those teams have played in the French Top14 or the United Rugby Championship over the last three or four weeks, where we didn't have any games.

“So, it will help a lot with our preparation and will help us to be ready to tackle those teams in their conditions.”

The Cheetahs will play against Section Paloise of France in Pau, and the Scarlets from Llanelli in Wales. The Cheetahs themselves will be based in and play out of Parma in Italy.

Friday’s match between the Sharks and Cheetahs at Kings’ Park kicks off at 15:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport