The defending champions, the Griquas, will enjoy home-ground advantage, and the Cheetahs haven’t had much success in Kimberley recently – something they’ll be hoping to change this weekend.

Regardless of the result, the Griquas are expected to remain second on the log, with the Cheetahs in third, setting up a semi-final clash in Kimberley next week. This weekend’s derby is essentially a dress rehearsal for the knockout match and should serve up some thrilling, entertaining rugby.

Cheetahs outside back James Verity-Amm, who scored a hat-trick on his return last week, told OFM Sport that the team has found its rhythm, but it will be a good and tough game.

“We’re definitely excited about the challenge of taking on Griquas this weekend. Of course, we back ourselves – we’ll stick to our processes and to what’s worked for us over the last few weeks,” said Verity-Amm, who previously played for the Griquas.

“I think we’ve really come together as a group in the past few weeks. Everyone understands where we want to be, both on attack and defence. We’ve started hitting our straps at the right time in the competition and we’re really starting to gel well as a team.

James Verity-Amm. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We’re definitely looking forward to the challenge against the Griquas this weekend. They’re a quality side and they’ve played well this season. I think it’ll be a great game – like I said, a proper challenge for us.”

Reflecting on his return after more than a year on the sidelines with a serious knee injury, Verity-Amm told OFM Sport that he was pleased with his performance and feels the team is in a good space in terms of squad depth – a testament to the hard work put in throughout the competition.

“First of all, I’m very, very excited and happy to have been back on the weekend. It’s always great to get back out there – especially after being off the field for a year, which is tough,” the fleet-footed outside back added.

“So I’m just happy I could get out there and play well.

“As for squad depth, we had our struggles earlier in the season with quite a few injuries. But now, having most of the guys back and fully fit, and all competing for places, it really keeps you on your toes at training. It also allows us to rotate players confidently, because we trust everyone coming in and out.

“So it’s a really good space to be in.”

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

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg