Just when the Cheetahs thought their path to Currie Cup glory was clear, fate has thrown a wrench in the works. Flyhalf Franco Smith is out cold—literally—thanks to a concussion from last week's clash, leaving the team's playmaking duties up in the air ahead of their semi-final showdown with the Griquas this Saturday.
The incident occurred during a high-stakes faceoff with the Vodacom Bulls, where Bulls captain Marcell Coetzee's high tackle not only earned him a red card but also inadvertently sparked a Cheetahs' comeback. Rallying from a 30-point deficit, the Cheetahs clawed their way back into the game, ending just shy of a win at 35-31 but securing a semi-final berth by the skin of their teeth.
With their regular number 10 sidelined along with alternatives George Lourens, Tiaan Swanepoel, and Ethan Wentzel, Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn is now scouring the depths of his roster. It’s down to Clayton Blommetjies or Cohen Jasper to step up to the flyhalf slot—a decision that's sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
"We’re pretty stoked as a team for this coming weekend,"
exclaimed winger Prince Nkabinde in an enthusiastic chatter with OFM Sport."Excited more than anything to play in the semi-final. It’s a huge blessing for us, and we know the challenge ahead on Saturday."
Nkabinde also highlighted the team's mindset, focusing on self-improvement and strategy refinement after their recent 40-10 drubbing by Griquas. "We just want to showcase what this team is capable of, play our brand of rugby, and leave no stone unturned," he added, embracing the underdog spirit.
As the Cheetahs plot their strategy, another drama unfolds with the Boland Cavaliers sweating over the fitness of their playmakers ahead of the earlier semi-final against the Lions. With the kick-off set for 7:15 pm in Kimberley, following the Lions and Cavaliers clash at 5 pm at Ellis Park, Saturday promises a full dose of nail-biting rugby action.
Will the underdog Cheetahs turn their fortunes around in Kimberley? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: they’re not going down without a fight.