It will be the last match in change for Smith in the capacity of coach at the team, while it will also be the Cheetahs last home game of the year.

Hawies Fourie will take over the reins of the team as from next week and he will guide the team on their first overseas tour of the season.

Smith told OFM Sport that while the results weren’t always in their favour he never doubted the commitment of his charges.

"You get close to the players. They don't know how close you get to them but you do. We really became a family. The players always went on the field and gave their hearts to the team.

“As a coach, I never had to doubt any of the player's commitment to the team while I was at the Cheetahs.

“They have always measured themselves at a very high standard.

“As a coach that is a big thing. You always worry if they want to give it their all, or if they believe in the plan.

“I'm excited to say that in my six years at the Cheetahs that there was always 100% commitment even though we didn't always get the results.

“Regardless of what happens on Friday, I can only thank the players for buying into what we asked from them.

“From August last year when we restarted building a group of players. Despite negative comments and people not believing in them, they kept their eye on the ball.”

Meanwhile, Melusi Mthethwa, will officially assistant Hawies Fourie. Mthethwa who has a keen eye for young talent will serve as the Cheetahs backline coach for the next four years.

Mthethwa has proven himself at junior level and his promotion to the senior team is just reward for his success. He will also report for duty with the team on Monday.

Friday’s evening’s big PRO14 clash kicks off at 18:15.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport