The 30-year-old has been sidelined for nearly six months after fracturing his ankle during the Cheetahs’ 26-10 loss to Cardiff Blues on 14 December in Wales, during the EPCR Challenge Cup. 

Van der Merwe, renowned for his breakdown expertise, has been back in full training for a while and has now received the green light to return to action. 

Gideon van der Merwe. Photo: Morgan Piek

Saturday’s clash between the Griquas and Cheetahs promises to be a humdinger, as is usually the case when these two sides face off, and Van der Merwe’s turnover skills will be a welcome boost for the Bloemfontein side, who have sorely missed his presence throughout their SA Cup campaign.

Apart from his graft at the breakdown, Van der Merwe has one of the highest work rates in defence in the team. Van der Merwe told OFM Sport that he is ready, raring to go, and the team deserves nothing less than his very best.

“It’s been a while – six months is a long time to be out,” said Van der Merwe. “It wasn’t easy, but it felt amazing to get the nod from Frans (Steyn) and the coaching team today. 

“I’m really looking forward to getting back on the park this weekend. It’s a fantastic feeling – you don’t really need extra motivation, but I definitely have a bit more this time around. 

“It’s great to have the support. Now it’s just about going out there and delivering. The team’s been looking sharp. Hopefully I can add as much value as possible and give it everything I’ve got. 

“They deserve it. The boys have been playing well and we’re in good form. Hopefully we can go out there and deliver on Saturday.”

Van der Merwe’s return is another timely boost for the Cheetahs, as he is the last of the squad’s long-term injury absentees to be cleared for action. 

James Verity-Amm. Photo: Morgan Piek

Last week, outside back James Verity-Amm made his comeback after more than a year on the sidelines, scoring a hat-trick of tries and slotting six conversions against the Border Bulldogs.

Powerful centre Carel-Jan Coetzee also made his return last week from a minor knee injury and dotted down in the Cheetahs’ emphatic 106–7 victory in Bloemfontein. 

Van der Merwe previously turned out for the Griquas before joining the Cheetahs in 2021. Verity-Amm also represented the Peacock Blues during the 2020/21 season.

Saturday’s derby between the Griquas and Cheetahs kicks off at 15:00 at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh