Cheetahs looking for a fast start against the Griffons

The SA Cup resumes this weekend following the Easter break, with Round 5 marking a pivotal stage in the competition as the race for the four semi-final spots and qualification for the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division intensifies.

The Toyota Cheetahs travel to Welkom to face the Griffons in a crucial encounter on Saturday. Kick-off at Down Touch Investments Stadium is scheduled for 3pm, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport 199.

With the competition moving beyond the halfway mark after this round, every result becomes increasingly significant in the push for a place in the semi-finals.

The Cheetahs head into Round 5 in fifth position on the log, following a 52-19 victory over Eastern Province. Their clinical finishing in that match highlighted their intent and strengthened their semi-final ambitions. A win on the road this weekend would provide a valuable boost in their pursuit of a top-four finish.

Captain Neels Volschenk, who also led the side against the Griffons during the 2024 Toyota Challenge, emphasised the importance of collective leadership within the group.

“I’m fortunate to have a strong group of senior players supporting me both on and off the field. Leadership isn’t always about what you say, it’s about understanding your role and executing it to the best of your ability. That’s the mindset this team has embraced.”

The team will be focused on improving their start, aiming to avoid unnecessary pressure in the early stages of the game.

Toyota Cheetahs starting XV: 15 Clayton Blommetjies, 14 Cohen Jasper, 13 De-an Ackerman, 12 Jooste Nel, 11 Michael Annies; 10 Jaco van der Walt, 9 Rewan Kruger; 8 Mihlali Mosi, 7 Neels Volschenk (capt), 6 Daniel Maartens; 5 Curtly Thomas, 4 Carl Wegner; Aranos Coetzee, 2 Marko Janse van Rensburg, 1 Tielman Nieuwoudt. Replacements: 16 Juan Smal, 17 Frankie Dos Reis, 18 John Kelly Okonkwo, 19 Victor Sekekete, 20 Pieter Jansen van Vuren, 21 Sisonke Vumazonke, 22 Marco Janse van Vuren, 23 Carel-Jan Coetzee.

Griffons v Toyota Cheetahs - Saturday @ Down Touch Investments Stadium, Welkom (3pm)

Referee: Dylen November

Broadcast: SuperSport 199