The Cheetahs are no strangers to French opposition in the competition and will also face Perpignan later in the campaign. However, Bayonne will present a formidable challenge, with the French club sitting fifth in the Top 14 standings after six rounds, behind Toulouse, Pau, Bordeaux-Bègles, and La Rochelle.

The Free State side have enjoyed success against French opposition in the past, having beaten Pau, while they came agonisingly close to upsetting Racing 92 in Paris in January. 

The Cheetahs also faced Toulon in the Round of 16 previously, producing an encouraging performance against the French giants.

Victor Sekekete’s experience will be invaluable in France. Photo: Morgan Piek

Travelling to France is never an easy assignment for a South African team, particularly at the start of a demanding European campaign. Nevertheless, there is a palpable sense of excitement in the Cheetahs camp as they prepare to test themselves against some of Europe’s best.

Veteran lock Victor Sekekete told OFM Sport that the key will be approaching the competition with the right mindset and making the most of the opportunity.

“I think there’s a lot of excitement in the team, especially with the squad we have now,” said Sekekete.

“There’s a lot of experience across different positions, as well as a lot of young guys coming through the ranks. Everyone is looking forward to it, and I think our goal is very clear.

“We don’t just want to participate – we want to make the most of this competition.”

Bayonne also have South African talent in their ranks, including Springboks Herschel Jantjies and Robert du Preez. While their familiarity with South African rugby could prove useful, Sekekete believes the Cheetahs must remain focused on their own game plan and execution.

“I think we can’t focus too much on that because they also have to focus on themselves. They’ll have a bit of an advantage in knowing us because they have those South African players, but we also know what to expect from them.

“They’re going to be physical, especially up front, and they have a good set of backs as well. We know what we need to match and what we need to do.”

Sekekete, who led the Cheetahs to the Currie Cup title in 2023, added that the team have reflected on their narrow defeat to Racing 92 earlier this year, taking valuable lessons from that encounter into the new campaign.

“Yes, that game against Racing 92 did come up in our conversations, especially when we looked at how it unfolded,” Sekekete added.

Neels Volschenk will once captain the Cheetahs. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We were right in it from the start, and it was a very tight game. There were good lessons to take from that experience.

“The time we’ve spent together since then has also been valuable, especially with the new players coming into the squad. We’ve introduced a few new things, and the additions have been good for the team.”

The Cheetahs will be eager to make an early statement in Europe when they take on Bayonne at Stade Jean Dauger on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 14:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs