With Ali Mgijima leaving the union, Du Plessis’ arrival couldn’t have come at a better time. In the game and a half he played against Black Lion in the Toyota Challenge, he certainly made his mark. 

Du Plessis has the ability to slot in at inside centre, flyhalf, or fullback, but it’s at inside centre where he came on as a substitute during the narrow 39–38 defeat in the first game and then started in the 24–5 victory.

He’s already shown that he brings serious physicality to the midfield and has been doing just about everything right so far. He runs hard into contact, defends solidly, and adds value with his booming boot. Franco Smith Jr started at flyhalf over the weekend, while in the first game he featured at inside centre – his more natural position.

Gideon van der Merwe, Franco Smith Jr, and Zander du Plessis. Photo: Morgan Piek

It’s worth remembering that the Cheetahs have three other flyhalves in George Lourens, Ethan Wentzel, and Tiaan Swanepoel, although all have been sidelined with injuries. 

Lourens is back in training after recovering from a fractured arm, while Wentzel is still out with an ankle injury. Swanepoel, meanwhile, is set to undergo surgery in November to sort out a lingering groin issue.

Coach Frans Steyn – who was every bit as versatile as Du Plessis during his playing days, and more – told OFM Sport that he’s pleased with what he’s seen over the past two games, and for now, Du Plessis isn’t really an option at flyhalf.

“For me, I just want someone who’s solid in the midfield,” said Steyn.

“I want a player who carries hard, tackles hard, and makes his presence felt. Zander hasn’t played rugby in quite some time – this was his first full match in a while. I don’t even know when he last turned out for the Lions. 

“But he was very solid, and that makes the job easier for everyone around him. I’m very happy – the guys played really well.”

Raegan Orange, who has played a bit at outside centre, when he hasn’t been injured, is also set to leave and will link up with the Pumas in Nelspruit.

Ali Mgijima. Photo: Morgan Piek

Meanwhile, upfront, young and dynamic University of the Free State Shimlas hooker Vice Hofmeyr has signed a contract with the Cheetahs. The Kimberley-born player joins as a direct replacement for Vernon Paulo, who is set to link up with the Stormers. 

Hofmeyr’s immediate focus, however, remains with the Shimlas as they prepare for the 2026 Varsity Cup. He is a work in progress, but is certainly an exciting talent who is very good around the park with the speed of a loose forward.

The Cheetahs are currently enjoying a short break before regrouping for the EPCR Challenge Cup, which kicks off in December. Later in November, they’ll travel to Johannesburg to face the Lions in a warm-up match at Ellis Park. The Cheetahs’ EPCR Challenge Cup campaign begins on 7 December against the Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park in England.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs