The Cheetahs will face the Georgian national team for the first time in a game that also marks the 130th anniversary of Free State Rugby.

Besides honouring the legacy of past players, the match will serve as ideal preparation for the upcoming Currie Cup. The clash is expected to be physical and played at a high tempo – something that has the Cheetahs camp excited.

Cheetahs supporters. Photo: Morgan Piek

Sekekete told OFM Sport that wearing the famous white jersey means a lot to him.

“I think, for the players, we really understand what this game means. I mean, 130 years of Free State Rugby is a big deal,” said Sekekete.

“So, we truly want to honour the jersey for how far it’s come and where it comes from. A lot of legends have come from this place.

“I also think this game, leading into the Currie Cup, is a blessing for us. It’s the kind of competition that shows us the standard we need to hit against international players. We can carry that into the Currie Cup.

“That will be a bonus for us, if I may say so.” The towering lock added that they know they’ll be in for a physical and intense game, which is exactly what they want ahead of their Currie Cup campaign later this year.

“Yeah, everyone knows Georgians for being very physical,” Sekekete said. “But we’ve focused more on ourselves because we know they’re mainly preparing for the Springbok game, yet they also need game time.

Cheetahs during the 2023 Currie Cup semi-final against the Bulls. Photo: Morgan Piek

“So, for us, it’s a great opportunity – for them and for us – because, at the end of the day, we’re still playing in Bloemfontein.

“What we want to get from the game is physicality and to take the intensity up. We’re really looking forward to a good match.”

Friday’s match at Toyota Stadium kicks off at 19:00, and tickets are still available.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh