Rugby
Rudolph set for welcome return against Valke─── MORGAN PIEK 07:49 Wed, 23 Apr 2025
Seasoned Toyota Cheetahs eighth-man, Jeandré Rudolph, is set to make his long-awaited return to the field this weekend in their SA Cup round seven clash against the Valke in Bloemfontein.
Rudolph has been sidelined since a knee injury during a croc-roll in the third-round encounter against the Pumas in Nelspruit.
Beyond his wealth of experience, Rudolph's ability to contest at the breakdown is invaluable – an area where the Cheetahs have recently struggled, particularly with Gideon van der Merwe, who was also out injured. The good news is that Van der Merwe has resumed contact training and could make his return from a fractured ankle in the upcoming fixture against the Suzuki Griquas.
Rudolph’s presence will no doubt be a massive boost in Saturday’s match against the Valke, who remain contenders for the semi-finals.
Head coach Frans Steyn told OFM Sport that Rudolph is a key figure in the squad, both on and off the field. “I think he means a lot to the squad – the way he plays, he wears his heart on his sleeve,” said Steyn.
“He speaks his mind. If someone’s messing around, he’ll call them out. For me, it’s great to have him back. Especially with young guys like Neels Volschenk, Pierre Uys, and Sisonke Vumazonke in the back row, it’s important to have a senior and tough number eight in the mix.
Aranos Coetzee. Photo: Morgan Piek
“He really means a lot to us.”
Meanwhile, the Cheetahs remain quietly confident heading into this must-win match. The Valke, however, will arrive in Bloemfontein full of confidence after their thrilling 45-40 win over the Griffons.
The Cheetahs need a win to stay in the hunt for a semi-final spot, and with rain forecast for the weekend, forward dominance is expected to play a crucial role. Veteran tight head prop Aranos Coetzee also spoke to OFM Sport, expressing belief in the team’s preparation and mindset.
“I think it’s going to be a good contest. That first 30 minutes is always tough – everyone’s fresh and it’s a physical battle up front. But I think, personally, they won’t be able to keep up. After that first 30, I reckon the wheels will come off and it’s going to turn into a proper battle.”
Saturday’s game at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 15:00.
