The Cheetahs are in a fortunate position to have a player such as the two-time World Cup winner, who can also slot in at inside centre or at flyhalf as well. In addition, his 180 games for Racing92 and Montpellier are also a big advantage.

It is expected that Siya Masuka will once again be the pivot, while Reinhardt Fortuin will run out at the inside centre alongside David Brits.

Throw Ruan Pienaar into the mix at flyhalf and the Cheetahs will have four players on the park that can play at flyhalf as well.

The Cheetahs coach, Hawies Fourie, told OFM Sport that Steyn in the No. 15 jersey will suit them in France.

"Frans at fullback is solid under the high ball and he has got a very good kicking game," said Fourie.

"We'll use him as best we can, and I just felt that playing him at fullback would allow us to make good use of his boot. When he plays inside centre, he is normally in the ruck and someone else has got to kick.

"We try to use the skills of the players as best we can in the conditions that we are going to play in."

Meanwhile, the pitch in Pau is a hybrid one, which is a mix of natural grass and an artificial surface. This provides for a firmer surface, which will be in favour of the Cheetahs.  

Fourie will name his team on Friday afternoon and Saturday’s game at Stade du Hameau kicks off at 15:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport