Toyota Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn is thrilled to have rock-solid loosehead prop Cameron Dawson back in the mix as they turn their attention to the EPCR Challenge Cup, which kicks off in December.

The 26-year-old Dawson has rejoined the Cheetahs, who are currently spending some time in Durban, where he represented the Sharks during the early rounds of the United Rugby Championship.

Dawson has undoubtedly been one of the Cheetahs’ most improved and consistent performers throughout the year, and his value to the team has only grown following the departure of Hencus van Wyk to the Stormers.

Cameron Dawson and Hencus van Wyk - Morgan Piek

While Tielman Niewoudt started at loosehead prop against Black Lion and featured off the bench in a few Currie Cup games, he remains a raw talent – and for now, Dawson is still the go-to man in that position.

Dawson’s stint with the Sharks proved to be incredibly valuable, both for his personal growth and for the Cheetahs, as he is now firmly on the radar of the bigger franchises.

Steyn told OFM Sport that having Dawson back is a major boost, especially with the European campaign on the horizon, and added that if the prop were to move permanently to a team like the Sharks, it would be well deserved.

“Oh definitely. I mean, the young guys can only learn from him because Cammy came through the system,” said Steyn.

“He left for a short stint with the Pumas and then came back, and right now we can’t go without him. It’s great to have him back, and he did well at the Sharks.

“My only worry is that they might come back and ask to take him again, but whatever comes next for Cammy, he deserves it. He works hard, he’s a great team man, and it’s just good to have him back.”

Steyn added that he’s generally pleased with what he’s seen during the first two days of their pre-season, following a short break after their games against Black Lion in the Toyota Challenge.

Tielman Niewoudt - Morgan Piek

“Yeah, it’s just nice to have so many guys back on the field again,” said Steyn, noting that several injured players have returned.

“I think there’s only one or two still out. Having everyone back and working together – that’s where the hard work starts. There’s a great vibe, and that last win against Georgia meant a lot. The way the guys went about it gives us confidence heading into the first game.”

The Cheetahs will face the Lions at Ellis Park in a warm-up match towards the end of November before jetting off to Europe to take on the Exeter Chiefs and Stade Français in the opening rounds of the EPCR Challenge Cup.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport