The centre, Evardi Boshoff, is set for a rare start in place of the seasoned Robert Ebersohn in the major change to the backline.

Importantly the winger Dan Kasende is available for selection after his red card from last week was expunged.

Several of last week’s bench riders also set for a start such as the lock Mzwanele Zito. Marko Janse van Rensburg is expected to start at hooker, with Chucky van der Westhuizen remaining on the bench.

The flanker, Andisa Ntsila, who recently made his return to the field in a warm-up game against the Griffons is also set for some game time in what will be his first competitive match in many months.

Boshoff told OFM Sport that he looks forward to a start, which is something that doesn’t happen for the former UCT Ikeys star very often.

“I'm very excited for Sunday's game against the Griffons and to get an opportunity to start, said Boshoff.

“I would just like to make an impact from the start as I've been playing off the bench for the last couple of games.

“Since my injury, I have enjoyed a lot of game time and this will be my first start in a long time.

“I'm just excited and I am going to go out there and just enjoy every second of it.”

The Cheetahs will be confident after a solid 42-19 win against the Griquas in Kimberley during round one, while the Purple People Eaters will target a first win after losing 32-16 to the Sharks in Durban.

Hawies Fourie will name his team for the game on Friday.

Sunday’s Free State Derby in Welkom kicks off at 14:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport