The towering beanstalk - who previously turned out for the University of the Western Cape in the Varsity Cup and later for the Griffons in the Currie Cup - answered the Cheetahs’ SOS call alongside flyhalf George Lourens, joining the squad in the Netherlands ahead of their clash with Stade Français.

Thomas, fittingly named after the West Indies fast-bowling legend Curtly Ambrose, has been part of the Cheetahs setup since July. But he’s had to bide his time on the sidelines while recovering from a hamstring injury.

Curtly Thomas in action for the Griffons against the Cheetahs - Morgan Piek

Lourens, meanwhile, hasn’t featured for the Free State since his standout SA Cup campaign. He fractured his arm in a Currie Cup warm-up against Griquas in Bultfontein and has been working his way back to full fitness.

Thomas comes in for the seasoned Victor Sekekete, who suffered a facial fracture during the 42–12 loss to the Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park on Sunday night. Flyhalf Jaco van der Walt and inside centre Zander du Plessis also returned to Bloemfontein with injuries and won’t be risked this week, prompting the call-up of Lourens.

Thomas, standing a commanding 2.03 metres, is buzzing to finally get his chance in Amsterdam. He told OFM Sport he just wants to contribute.

“Yes, I am really excited and grateful to be here with the team in Amsterdam,” said Thomas.

“It’s been a tough journey so far at the Cheetahs - coming back from a hamstring injury and having to be patient for an opportunity.

“But I’m really looking forward to it, to be making my Cheetahs debut on Saturday, and to contributing to the team.”

Lourens, on the other hand, is already an experienced hand in the Cheetahs environment and has EPCR Challenge Cup minutes under the belt. His exact role this weekend remains to be seen. 

George Lourens during 32-29 EPCR Challenge Cup win against the Sharks in 2023 - Morgan Piek

He could slot straight in at flyhalf, or Clayton Blommetjies might wear the No. 10 jersey with Lourens starting at inside centre.

If Lourens is handed the reins at flyhalf, De-an Ackermann - who debuted last week - may shift from outside to inside centre, while Marco Jansen van Vuuren could move from scrumhalf to No. 13. This would open the door for Rewan Kruger or Jandré Nel to start at halfback.

Saturday’s clash between the Cheetahs and Stade Français kicks off at 15:00 at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport