The Toyota Cheetahs will be making a few injury-enforced changes for Friday’s Currie Cup round four clash against the Griffons in Welkom.

The fullback, Litha Nkula, and the hooker, Marko Janse van Rensburg, are injured after the 25-13 defeat against the Blue Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on the weekend. In addition, the centre and vice-captain, Ali Mgijima, also has a niggle and he will be rested as a precaution. Mgijima recently returned from an injury that left him on the sidelines for nearly two months.

Marko Janse van Rensburg tackling Sazi Sandi. Photo: Morgan Piek

The positive for the Cheetahs is they do have depth, and it’s an opportunity for other players.

The Cheetahs coach, Izak van der Westhuizen, told OFM Sport Nkula’s injury is a real pity as he is a player they are very excited about and he had been gradually improving with each game he played. “Our system takes a little bit of time to get used to in the way we play and especially in the way we defend,” said Van der Westhuizen.

“He’s just starting to get the hang of it and I think he is going to be a good player and we are looking forward to seeing him play in a lot more games for the Cheetahs. It is a bit of a blow for us at the moment, but again we've got good quality playing stepping up for us on the weekend that can hopefully fill that spot.”

Sbu Nkosi against the Pumas in the SA Cup. Photo: Morgan Piek

Regarding the doping case of the Springbok winger Sbu Nkosi the Cheetahs are in the dark. The player still needs to have his B sample tested. For the first time, the Cheetahs were hit by a doping scandal with Nkosi testing positive for the use of an anabolic steroid. The union can't comment on the matter while the information is still vague.

Friday’s game between the Griffons and Cheetahs in Welkom kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg