An enlarged squad went through their paces during training on Monday, with several new faces from the UFS Shimlas joining the sessions. Their head coach, André Tredoux, was also on hand to share some of his insight. 

New recruit and flyhalf, Zander du Plessis, trained with the Cheetahs for the first time – and he certainly didn’t look out of place.

There has been a strong focus on fitness and speed in the Cheetahs camp, and that intensity was clear to see during training as they aim to play a faster, more dynamic brand of rugby.

Sisonke Vumazonke. Photo: Morgan Piek

The Cheetahs are likely to field two different teams across the two matches against Black Lion, with an eye firmly on the upcoming EPCR Challenge Cup campaign in Europe.

Loose forward Sisonke Vumazonke told OFM Sport the team’s new fitness regime is already producing results.

“I think what’s changed with our strength and conditioning is that it’s become a lot more player-based – it’s not just about the coaches’ methods anymore. 

“It’s more structured and better managed. We’ve been putting in serious work in the gym, and we can feel the difference – we’re stronger and fitter. As Vic (Victor Sekekete) mentioned after training, the stopping power is definitely up – everyone can feel the improvement.”

Vumazonke said while the team expects a physical challenge in Europe, they’re also aiming to play a smarter and quicker game than they did during the Currie Cup.

“That’s exactly it – we’re not just trying to keep up with the sides we’ll face in the EPCR, we want to compete with them. 

“It’s going to be quicker, it’s going to be more physical. Those teams have big forwards, so we’ll need to use space wisely and move the ball faster than we did in the Currie Cup.”

He said the double-header against Black Lion is a crucial test not just for preparation, but for gauging their progress against quality opposition.

Cheetahs vs. Georgia earlier in the year. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s a big test – two matches we’re really looking forward to as a squad. The first team playing on Friday has a big job to set the tone so that the rest of the squad can also measure themselves against top competition. 

“Black Lion are the best in Georgia, and they’ve proven themselves in the EPCR over the past two seasons. So it’s a massive privilege to be playing them.”

The first match between the Cheetahs and Black Lion kicks off at 18:00 on Friday at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport