Volschenk, who crossed the whitewash in the emphatic 52–19 win over Eastern Province, will captain the Cheetahs for only the second time in his career. His first stint as skipper came back in 2024, coincidentally also against the Griffons, when the two sides met in Bloemfontein during the Toyota Challenge.

Fortunately for the young leader, a wealth of experience surrounds him. Regular captains such as Chucky van der Westhuizen and Victor Sekekete add plenty of leadership to the group, while seasoned lock Carl Wegner has also previously led the side, giving the Cheetahs a strong spine of on-field generals. Van der Westhuizen however, is not expected to play on the weekend.

A few changes are expected to the team that beat EP. The most notable is at inside centre, where Zander du Plessis will be unavailable. Du Plessis is battling an Achilles injury and is set to spend some time on the sidelines.

Head coach Frans Steyn confirmed the setback, while also noting that loosehead prop Dux Manyama is still undergoing HIA protocols after sustaining a concussion against the Pumas.

While it’s a high-pressure encounter, Volschenk has been entrusted with the captaincy for what will be his first time leading the team in a competitive fixture.

Zander du Plessis. Photo: Morgan Piek

Speaking to OFM Sport, Volschenk emphasised the importance of leading through actions rather than words – a lesson that stuck with him from his previous stint as captain.

“It’s quite funny that my previous experience as captain also came against the Griffons,” said Volschenk.

“What I’ve learned is that I’m surrounded by a strong group of senior players who support me both on and off the field. Leadership isn’t always about what you say – it’s about doing your job, knowing your role, and executing it to the best of your ability. That’s the standard this group of players follows.”

Neels Volschenk against the Leopards in Potchefstroom. Photo: Morgan Piek

Despite securing a valuable five-point haul against Eastern Province, the Cheetahs were slow out of the blocks and struggled to impose themselves in the opening 30 minutes. Volschenk admitted sharper starts have been a key focus in training this week.

“It was a big focus for us – starting matches better, especially in the first 20 to 30 minutes. We don’t want to put ourselves under unnecessary pressure through poor discipline.

“We had two yellow cards in the first half, and on another day, we could easily have been behind. It’s something we’ve reflected on, and we know we need to improve our start against the Griffons.”

Neels Volschenk in his first game as Cheetahs captain back in 2024. Photo: Morgan Piek

The last time the Cheetahs travelled to Welkom, it was the Purple People Eaters who caused an upset, claiming a narrow 36–33 victory. Volschenk acknowledged that playing in Welkom presents its own unique challenges.

“I can’t really put my finger on what makes it different playing in Welkom – it’s still the same field and the same game. But you can’t go there expecting it to be easy. It’s about pitching up, doing your job, and giving your best for the full 80 minutes – and even longer if needed,” said Volschenk.

Saturday’s clash at the DTI Stadium is scheduled to kick off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm