Last year, the team from Bloemfontein failed to win a single match, but they are now under the guidance of the former Cheetahs assistant, Melusi Mthethwa, who has taken over as the head coach.

Mthethwa conceded that it has been a bit of a challenge to secure the services of players, however, he has managed to get one or two outstanding players for 2023. 

Mthethwa has secured the services of center Lesley Botha, who went to play in France after school and recently played for the Cheetahs.

Botha was contracted by the French Top14 team Montpellier, where he spent some time before returning to Bloemfontein and receiving a contract with the Cheetahs.

With a very competitive midfield at the franchise, Botha enjoyed limited playing time with just one senior game to his name.

Mthethwa, who worked with Botha at the Cheetahs, told OFM Sport that Botha is sure to make an impact.

"Lesley Botha is one of the players that I think is going to have a massive Varsity Cup.

"He has been around the block, having played in France at Montpellier and after a stint at the Cheetahs, but I think that this is also his time.

"He has been training well and he has been doing well for himself, so I'm excited to see how he goes."

The Ixias tackle Wits next Monday in Bloemfontein in round one. This match at CUT Park will kick off at 19:00

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport