The squad has been put through their paces under the scorching sun, with temperatures nudging 40 degrees Celsius. While the heat has tested both body and mind, the team can already see the long-term benefits of these tough sessions.

Known for their fast, high-tempo, high-risk, high-reward style of rugby, the Cheetahs understand that fitness is the key to executing their game plan. Former Bulls coach Nollis Marais once remarked that “the Cheetahs even run around in their changeroom” - a statement that perfectly captures the energy and intensity the squad is aiming to maintain.

There is a sense of expectation hanging over this group, who last year reached the semi-finals of both the SA Cup and Currie Cup. Now, they want to take the next step and go one better.

Former UCT Ikeys winger Ntokozko Makhaza, who saw limited game time in his debut season with the Cheetahs in 2025, told OFM Sport that embracing preseason is crucial if the team is to stay true to their DNA.

“Like you said, it’s nice and hot, making sure we burn off all the weight we picked up during the break,” said the ever-smiling winger.

Ntokozo Makhaza on debut for the Cheetahs against Georgia - Morgan Piek

“But I’m excited. The boys are ready for the SA Cup. We just started on Monday, so it’s been a tough couple of days, but the squad seems ready and eager to get going.

“We are definitely taking it to heart. We want to play the Cheetah brand, which demands that we’re fit and fast. Even during our sessions here, we’re doing a lot of running and fitness work to make sure we’re prepped - so that come game day, it feels easy.”

The Cheetahs’ first SA Cup opponents will be Hawies Fourie’s Boland Cavaliers, but Makhaza stressed that with the clash still more than a month away, the focus remains on improving themselves rather than worrying about last year’s defeats in Wellington.

“They are a dangerous, unpredictable team, but our focus is on us and our brand of rugby - our Cheetah brand,” said the Bethlehem-born speedster.

“If we stick to our game, we know we can beat Boland and any other team that comes our way. Perfect our game, and the opposition is in for a tough day.”

Before taking on Boland, the Cheetahs will face Eastern Province in Cradock on 21 February in a warm-up match. Their SA Cup opener against Boland is set for 6 March at the Toyota Stadium, with kick-off at 18:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport