The Toyota Cheetahs lock, Carl Wegner, is ready to get back out on the park on Saturday when they tackle the Western Force in Bloemfontein.

The match will be the second of four games in the Toyota Challenge and the Cheetahs go into the game with a 31-27 to their names.

This week a new-look side will be named for the game, and Carl Wegner will start at lock after returning from the Italian URC team, Benetton.

It’s the fourth time that Wegner returns to the Cheetahs and he told OFM Sport that he is just as excited as when he first debuted.

“It will be my 'fourth debut' for the Cheetahs, but it feels like my first game ever for them,” said the friendly giant who is a former Junior Springbok.

“I'm very excited and I've got butterflies and I just can't wait to get on the pitch again and represent the Cheetahs. It's a massive honour and privilege like always, so very excited for that.”

Wegner added that while it will be totally different team playing on the weekend, they have good depth and it will be a quality side that will take to the field.

“There is a lot to play for and a different team sheet on the weekend, but it's also a team with a lot of talent and experience. The way we play is exactly the same and the quality of players in the side is also massive.

“That's one thing we have at the Cheetahs at the moment, is experience and depth. It is a big game for us on the weekend, but we are looking forward to that and just being able to be out on the pitch and enjoying ourselves.”

In the backline, the former Stormers flyhalf, Abner van Reenen, will be on debut for the Cheetahs, as well as the former Griquas scrumhalf, Raegan Oranje. Van Reenen will play at the inside centre while Oranje will play in the week.

In addition, the American international scrumhalf, Ruben de Haas, will also make his return following a stint at Saracens in England.

Saturday’s game at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport