The reigning Currie Cup champions will be eager to bounce back after their heartbreaking 38–25 extra-time defeat to the Pumas in the SA Cup final on Saturday. The tournament will feature three international teams: the Lusitanos of Portugal, Black Lion of Georgia, and Romania A. 

Following the second leg in South Africa, the three local teams will travel to Tbilisi in Georgia for the return fixtures against the overseas sides.

Caleb Abrahams. Photo: Morgan Piek

While the visiting teams won’t be fully-fledged test outfits, there is still plenty of international experience spread throughout the squads. Lusitanos, in particular, are expected to provide a stern challenge with several players involved in top European competitions.

The Griquas are also expected to use the tournament to give several fringe players valuable game time, while some of the regulars who logged heavy minutes during the SA Cup will be rested ahead of the Currie Cup campaign.

One of the players hoping to make the most of the opportunity is former University of Cape Town Ikey Tigers hooker Keagan Blanckenberg, who is set for more game time in Bloemfontein.

Blanckenberg told OFM Sport the squad is excited to measure themselves against overseas opposition – something they seldom get the chance to do – while also putting the disappointment of the SA Cup final behind them.

“This Toyota Challenge is going to be a great opportunity for us to really see where we stack up against teams from outside our country and region,” said Blanckenberg.

“Especially with teams like Portugal, Black Lion and Romania A: some of their players are playing in the Pro D2 and Champions Cup, so it’s going to be really challenging for us.

Carel van der Merwe. Photo: Morgan Piek

“But I think it’s a fantastic opportunity, and the whole group is really looking forward to it.

“You also don’t often get the chance to play rugby so soon after a final, especially after a loss, so it gives us an opportunity to right some wrongs, let out some frustration, and continue building towards the Currie Cup, which we obviously want to win.”

Blanckenberg had limited game time during the recently concluded SA Cup and is determined to use the Toyota Challenge to impress coach Pieter Bergh and put pressure on first-choice hookers Janco Uys and Tiaan Lange.

Sako Makata. Photo: Morgan Piek

“On a personal note, I didn’t play a lot of rugby during the SA Cup, so I’d really love to use this opportunity to get some good minutes under the belt and put my hand up to the coach,” Blanckenberg added.

“I want to show that I’m someone he can trust and that I just want to play for the group. I’ve really enjoyed my time here at Griquas so far, and I want to keep pulling this jersey on because I genuinely enjoy what’s happening here.”

Meanwhile, the Bulls-bound winger Dylan Maart has been found not guilty after receiving a red card for playing a player in the year air during the final against the Pumas. He should be cleared to play in the Toyota Challenge.

Next Friday’s clash between the Griquas and Romania A at Toyota Stadium will kick off at 16:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm