Rugby
Lourens’ strong form fires up Wentzel ahead of Currie Cup season─── MORGAN PIEK 11:42 Thu, 03 Jul 2025
Toyota Cheetahs flyhalf Ethan Wentzel will make his long-awaited return to the field on Friday after six months on the sidelines. He’ll feature in the Currie Cup warm-up match against the Suzuki Griquas in Bultfontein.
Wentzel, who was one of the standout players during last year’s Currie Cup, has been out of action due to back and shoulder injuries. He is expected to get at least 40 minutes of game time as the team gears up for their upcoming clash against Georgia and the new Currie Cup campaign.
In the meantime, George Lourens has firmly claimed the number ten jersey after a standout showing in the SA Cup. Wentzel told OFM Sport that he’s embracing the competition between them and that they feed off each other’s energy.
Ethan Wentzel. Photo: Morgan Piek
“I think George played brilliantly in the SA Cup. He’s shown that he can still perform at a high level, and that’s exactly the kind of motivation I need to keep pushing myself,” said Wentzel.
“Whether it means doing extras, picking up a bit of weight, or getting stronger – whatever it takes to get back to my best. It’s good for both of us.
“We push each other, and ultimately that benefits the team. If you’ve got two flyhalves competing and lifting each other’s game, it’s a win for the whole squad.”
Wentzel added that although he respects the strong form Lourens is in, he’s not planning to hand over the jersey without a fight.
“I think it was after two games that Clayton Blommetjies had a chance at ten, but then he unfortunately picked up an injury. George stepped in and really took control of the team.
“He’s done a great job, but I’m going to fight for that position.”
Meanwhile, live-wire UFS Shimlas flanker Ramon Uys is set to play in a Cheetahs jersey for the first time. He is the younger brother of the current Cheetahs number seven flanker Pierre Uys, who captained Shimlas last year.
George Lourens. Photo: Morgan Piek
After a standout Varsity Cup campaign – where he was nominated for Player of the Tournament – Ramon has been training with the senior squad and continues to impress.
Also set for his first Cheetahs outing is former UCT Ikeys winger Ntokozo Makhaza, who will feature in Friday’s match.
The game kicks off at 13:00 at Carpe Diem Park in Bultfontein.
