The Cheetahs’ second week of SA Cup pre-season swung into action on Monday morning (9/2) in Bloemfontein, with the squad welcomed by far kinder conditions after grinding through last week’s searing Free State heat. While the temperature dipped, the intensity certainly didn’t, as preparations continue to ramp up ahead of the season opener.

With just over a month to go before the SA Cup kicks off, Van der Westhuizen believes those tough early sessions in tough conditions are laying crucial foundations, especially from a mental point of view.

“The coaches were clear from the start of pre-season that it had to be tough – mentally as well,” Van der Westhuizen told OFM Sport.

“The SA Cup is never easy. There are quality teams who’ve had long preparations, everyone is chasing Currie Cup qualification, and everyone is gunning for you. It’s going to be gruelling. Week in and week out, you have to pitch up and perform, or you’ll find yourself slipping down the log.”

Competition across the board has intensified, with several unions bolstering their squads. SWD, for example, have been given a major boost with the appointment of Heyneke Meyer as head coach, while other teams have recruited exciting players eager to prove a point after limited opportunities at bigger franchises.

The loose-forward Sisonke Vumazonke has extended his contract with the Cheetahs. Photo: Morgan Piek

With promotion to the Currie Cup Premier Division on the line once again, the Namibian international says every fixture will be as important as a final

“You saw it with Boland last year – from the get-go, they were right in the mix. The smaller unions want to show SA Rugby they belong and that they’re ready for bigger rugby. That’s good for the game.

“There are no easy matches or easy outs anymore.”

The exciting Banie Britz is fit and training with the Cheetahs ahead of the SA Cup. Photo: Morgan Piek

Van der Westhuizen also highlighted the importance of squad-wide commitment during the off-season. While some players were touring in Europe, those who stayed behind stuck to individual programmes aimed at improving fitness and adding muscle, a key factor in building depth for a demanding 2026 season.

“Some of the guys had individual gym programmes in the off-season to get fitter or bulk up, and there were clear standards set,” he explained.

“There are no excuses. That internal competition lifts us to another level. It strengthens every position and helps us get through a long, tough SA Cup season.”

The Cheetahs will kick off their SA Cup campaign against the Boland Cavaliers on 6 March at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg