Nel has been named on the bench for the Griquas ahead of their big SA Cup semi-final clash against the Toyota Cheetahs. 

This comes as the regular centre, Tertius Kruger, was ruled out due to a concussion he sustained during the 31-29 win against the Free State last week. Capable of covering both midfield and wing positions, Nel’s versatility could prove crucial in what promises to be a high-intensity, fast-paced, and physical knockout encounter.

Tom Nel. Photo: Christiaan Kotze/ASEM Engage

Speaking to OFM Sport about his pending debut, Nel said it was the perfect next step in his rugby journey.

“Yes, I’m really thrilled and excited to make my debut for the Griquas on Saturday, especially against the Cheetahs in the semi-final,” said Nel.

“Coming off a Varsity Cup win with the Ikeys, stepping into the SA Cup and joining the Griquas feels like the right progression for me and my career. 

“I’m very excited to be here and grateful for the call-up. I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday, do my job, and help the team make it into the final, and hopefully bring the SA Cup home.”

Meanwhile, one of Nel’s Ikeys teammates, Ntokozo Makhaza, who was named both the Varsity Cup Backline Player of the Year and the overall Varsity Cup Player of the Year, has been called up to the Springboks’ next alignment camp ahead of their international season.

Last month, following the conclusion of the Varsity Cup, the talented and versatile winger was contracted by the Cheetahs, and he will link up with the team once his studies have been completed in Cape Town.

Ntokozo Makhaza. Photo: Christiaan Kotze/ASEM Engage

Saturday’s SA Cup semi-final between the Griquas and the Cheetahs will take place at the Suzuki Stadium in Kimberley, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.

Griquas - 15 Cameron Hufke, 14 Dylan Maart, 13 Zane Bester, 12 Mnombo Zwelendaba, 11 Gurswin Wehr, 10 George Whitehead (captain), 9 Thomas Bursey, 8 Gustav Erlank, 7 Marco de Witt, 6 Lourens Oosthuizen, 5 Albert Liebenberg, 4 Dylan Sjöblom, 3 Cebo Dlamini, 2 Janco Uys, 1 Eddie Davids

Replacements - 16 Gustav du Randt, 17 Leon Lyons, 18 Junior Banda, 19 Athenkosi Khethani, 20 Phumzile Maqondwana, 21 Bobby Alexander, 22 Tylor Sefoor, 23 Tom Nel

Cheetahs - TBA

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh