This was due to numerous Covid-19 cases within the Lions camp.

The match, which was scheduled to be played in Johannesburg, was called off just hours before kick-off and this left the Cheetahs fuming.

The Cheetahs coach, Hawies Fourie, confirmed that on Wednesday morning they were informed that the match has been cancelled and the points will be shared.

“I just received an email from SA Rugby which stated that the game is a draw and both teams will receive points.

“That takes us to 11 points on the log and four behind the Bulls, while we’ve played one game less.

“We are still in the running for this competition, but Friday night’s game against the Sharks is the most important one for us.”

Fourie further added that there was an opportunity to have the game rescheduled but it would have been difficult to fit it in with the tight schedule of the tournament.

“We can’t change it. That’s the decision that has been taken and we’ve got to live with it.

“There was an opportunity. They gave us three other dates to play this game, but it would have been difficult. It would have meant that we would’ve played three games in eight days, and this wouldn’t be ideal anyway.

“It might have jeopardised our chances in one of the other games if we played that match on a Wednesday.

“There wasn’t a suitable date to play that game. In the end, it might happen that we are one or two log-points short and it will be devastating if that happens.

“At the moment we still control our own destiny. We are still four points behind the Bulls and we have three games left, so we can still finish above them on the log.”

Friday night’s match between the Sharks and the Cheetahs at Kings’ Park in Durban kicks off at 19:00.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport