There is a personal edge to this clash, but the Cheetahs are determined to keep their focus firmly on the job at hand. Last year, the Cavaliers got the better of them in both the SA Cup and the Currie Cup, although both of those fixtures were played in Wellington - widely regarded as something of a fortress for Boland.

The Cheetahs have spent a considerable period building cohesion as a squad and are now a more seasoned outfit. In their most recent EPCR Challenge Cup outing against Racing 92 in Paris, they showed exactly what they are capable of, coming agonisingly close to toppling the French heavyweights at the Paris La Défense Arena - a venue where the hosts boast an exceptional record.

Neels Volschenk against the Pumas - Morgan Piek

The Free Staters’ focus this week has been on getting the basics right and maintaining intensity for longer periods against Hawies Fourie’s charges, who enjoyed several warm-up fixtures in the build-up to the competition.

While the Cheetahs showed promising glimpses of their potential in their hit-out against the Griffons, they know the Cavaliers will pose a far sterner test.

Cheetahs eighth-man, Neels Volschenk, told OFM Sport that controlling the controllable will be key.

“I think the whole group, not just the guys who are playing, are excited for the match,” said Volschenk.

“We’ve been waiting for this after a good pre-season, and I believe all the boys are ready to go on Friday.

“Our record against Boland hasn’t been great in recent years, but for us as a group, that doesn’t matter. We’re playing on Friday, and we want to start the campaign well and execute according to our standards.”

Volschenk added that a strong start is crucial, especially with two demanding fixtures to follow against the Leopards in Potchefstroom and the Pumas at home.

The last time the Cheetahs beat Boland was in March 2024 when they won 38-7 in Bloemfontein in round one of the SA Cup - Morgan Piek

“It’s three tough matches in a row, so it’s important to start the tournament on a high note and get that first win,” he added.

“Boland will be a tough opponent, then it’s a difficult away game against the Leopards, and the Pumas will be another big challenge.”

At this stage, Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding team selection. However, it would not be a surprise to see one or two fringe players given an opportunity after impressing in the clash against the Griffons.

Friday’s match between the Cheetahs and the Cavaliers at Toyota Stadium kicks off at 18:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport