The 2025 Currie Cup kicks off this weekend, and for Van Wyk, it will mark his final campaign in the famous white jersey of the seven-time champions.

Van Wyk will be leaving the Cheetahs after the world’s oldest domestic rugby competition, and there's no doubt that his departure will leave a significant void in the team.

Hencus van Wyk. Photo: Morgan Piek

The 33-year-old front-rower, who previously played Super Rugby for the Lions and Japan’s Sunwolves, is known for his consistency, work ethic, and big personality both on and off the field.

He’s set to join the Stormers after the Currie Cup, bringing an end to his stay in Bloemfontein, where he’s been based since 2020.

His absence will test the Cheetahs’ depth at loosehead prop, especially with the 41-year-old Schalk Ferreira now all but retired and focusing more on coaching. Cameron Dawson, who has long been Van Wyk’s understudy, is a strong tighthead in his own right, while 20-year-old Malcolm Lamont is beginning to make a name for himself in the senior ranks.

Van Wyk told OFM Sport that this Currie Cup will be a deeply personal campaign for him, and his goal is to leave the jersey in a better place.

“No, it’s definitely a lekker way to finish off the four or five years I’ve spent with the Cheetahs,” said Van Wyk.

“It’s going to be a lekker season – there’s a massive fire burning in me. I want us to do well. I want to play well for this team because I love the Cheetahs and what they stand for.

“There’s so much history in this Cheetahs team, and I’m passionate about finishing strong.

Cameron Dawson. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I’m also excited for the next chapter in Cape Town. It’s going to be lekker – completely new for me. I don’t know the Cape that well, but I’m really looking forward to it.

“For now though, I’m still a Cheetah, and I’m going balls to the wall.”

Van Wyk played a key role in helping the Cheetahs win their seventh Currie Cup title in 2023, when they beat the Pumas 25–17 in the final in Bloemfontein.

The Cheetahs will begin their 2025 Currie Cup campaign on Sunday with a clash against the Boland Cavaliers in Wellington.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg