The Cheetahs were drawn into a challenging Pool 3 just over two weeks ago, and their confirmed fixtures underline the scale of the task ahead. In addition to Exeter, they’ll come up against two French Top 14 teams and a club from Ireland.

The fixtures, released on Tuesday, confirmed the Cheetahs will make their debut in the competition against Exeter at Sandy Park on Sunday, 7 December. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:30 – a tough slot in the English winter.

Ethan Wentzel. Photo: Morgan Piek

Cheetahs loose forward Aidon Davis will be returning to familiar territory, having spent two years with Exeter before heading back to Bloemfontein in 2024.

Just six days later, the Cheetahs will play their first "home" game – most likely in Amsterdam, Netherlands again – when they face the French side Stade Français. The venue of the home fixtures is yet to be confirmed.

In January, the Cheetahs will return to the Netherlands to take on Ulster, the United Rugby Championship team from Belfast. With Cheetahs assistant coach Ruan Pienaar holding legendary status at Ulster, a strong travelling support from Ravenhill is expected. That clash will take place on Sunday, 11 January, with kick-off at 17:15.

A week later, the Cheetahs will round off their pool-stage campaign against Racing 92 at the Paris La Défense Arena. That match is scheduled for Sunday, 18 January, with a 19:30 start.

Both Cheetahs head coach Frans Steyn and veteran tighthead prop Aranos Coetzee previously turned out for Racing 92, adding an extra layer of interest to the fixture.

Cheetahs flyhalf Ethan Wentzel told OFM Sport while the pool is undoubtedly tough, it presents an exciting opportunity.

Ruan Pienaar. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It was tough to see the draw – everyone said, ‘ons gaan moet 'n bietjie jol’,” said Wentzel.

“But I think it’s a great opportunity for us. You always want to know if you can compete with the best.

“Going up against some of the top teams in the north gives all of us the chance to showcase our talent and measure ourselves.”

For now, though, the Cheetahs’ focus is firmly on the Currie Cup. They’ll kick off their domestic campaign on 27 July against the Boland Cavaliers in Wellington.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg