The University of the Free State Shimlas flyhalf, Ethan Wentzel, is excited about the next chapter in his rugby journey after being called up to the Toyota Cheetahs.

On the weekend his Shimlas teammate Neels Volschenk made his Cheetahs debut during their 68-17 win against the Valke in Kempton Park.

While Wentzel didn’t play, he travelled with the team as a reserve for the SA Cup game, and he could be in contention to play this against the Border Bulldogs in East London.

Wentzel told OFM Sport that this is what dreams are made of.

“At the beginning of the season, I had no idea that I would be getting this opportunity,” said Wentzel.

“But, I'm very excited and I'm a learning a lot of things that I didn't know. I'm excited to be here, happy to meet the guys and make new friends.

“At the start of the season it was all about the Shimlas, and now I'm here in the Cheetahs setup. It's a proud moment to share with my family and friends who supports one through thick and thin, so I'm very excited.”

Wentzel won the 2024 Varsity Cup for the Shimlas will a clutch penalty after the full time hooter to see the team from Bloemfontein beating the Ikeys 45-42 after the thrilling game was set to go into extra time.

Friday afternoon’s game at Police Park in East London kicks off at 15:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport