The 30-year-old Smit, who scored a try for the Springbok XV against the World XV some years ago, has only played in one match for the Cheetahs and this week he is set to replace the injured Siba Qoma.

Last week during the 20-17 defeat to the Scarlets at Parc Y Scarlets in Llanelli, Qoma, injured his ankle during the game, which has ruled him out for the week. There were initially signs that the former Shimla and Griqua wouldn’t be available for the encounter against Pau after he was played in the air and landed heavily on his neck, shoulder, and head region.

The Cheetahs were considering flying the Springbok, Oupa Mohoje, over for the match in Italy, however, he is still not fully fit, hence the decision to pull Smit into the playing squad.

Smit has only played one match for the Cheetahs thus far and that was during the Toyota Challenge in Bloemfontein in November 2022 when they beat the Bulls.

The 30-year-old Smit, who scored a try for the Springbok XV against the World XV some years ago, has only played in one match for the Cheetahs and this week he is set to replace the injured Siba Qoma.

Speaking to OFM Sport from Italy, Smit said that this is a big game for them.

"It's sad to hear about Siba, but I'm really excited to hopefully get some game time," said the former Lions and Bulls loose-forward.

"I haven't played in a while, so I'm looking forward to getting some game time and body contact. Other than that, I can't wait for this weekend.

This is a must-win game for us and we will be taking it as seriously as a final. We know if we lose this one, we will be out of the round of 16. The guys are prepared and focused mentally for what lies ahead this weekend.

"It's going to be a tough game, which is technically a final, but we are looking forward to it."

There are also concerns over the fitness of the inside centre, Reinhardt Fortuin, who injured his calf during training on Monday. The Cheetahs will have more clarity over the extent of his niggle on Tuesday, but as a precaution, an SOS was sent to Evardi Boshoff, who is en route to Italy.

Sunday’s do-or-die game at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi kicks off at 17:15.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek