The former Toyota Cheetahs fullback Tapiwa Mafura is excited and ready for tomorrow’s Currie Cup semi-final in Johannesburg.

Mafura will be playing for the Lions against his former team on Saturday, and he will be playing in his third semi-final, for a third different team and in three consecutive seasons.

In 2022, he played for the Pumas against the Cheetahs, while last year he played for the Free State against the team from the Lowveld. In the two previous years, he went on to the final and won the Currie Cup with the Pumas and the Cheetahs.

The Zimbabwean international told OFM Sport he has no doubt it will be a cracking semi-final. “Very excited for the semi-final this weekend, especially since it's against the Cheetahs,” said Mafura.

“I have a very close bond with those guys that are coming on the weekend. It's my second time playing against them now in the semi-final.

Tapiwa Mafura during the 2022 semi-final when the Pumas beat the Cheetahs 38-35 in Bloemfontein. Picture: Morgan Piek

“The first time was with the Pumas and you know it was a very tough game, and luckily, we saw that game through and I think we can expect the same this weekend. We know the Cheetahs are definitely going to bring everything and they’ll be looking to win that game. You know, we’re looking to do the same as well. But we are very excited and looking forward to it.

“I think it’s going to be down to the team that executes best and that makes the least mistakes – [that team] is going to take it home.

Tapiwa Mafura in action for the Cheetahs against the Sharks in the EPCR Challenge Cup in December 2023. Picture: Morgan Piek

“I’m looking forward to the game and yeah, it’s going to be a great game and very special for me to be in the semi -final again.  I’m just so blessed to be a part of a team right now that’s just gelling so well together and really looking forward to the game.”

Other former Cheetahs who could be in action for the Lions on Saturday include Rabz Maxwane, Sibabalo Qoma, and Beertjie van Vuuren.

Saturday’s semi-final at Ellis Park kicks off at 14:30.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg