Rugby
Cheetahs fighting fit for EPCR Challenge Cup─── MORGAN PIEK 08:33 Tue, 26 Nov 2024
The Toyota Cheetahs are entering the final stages of preparation for the upcoming EPCR Challenge Cup, with fierce competition brewing within the squad.
A warm-up match against the Bulls this week will serve as a final tune-up before the team departs for Europe.
With several experienced players returning from injury and promising youngsters stepping up, the battle for spots in the starting lineup is intense.
Loose forward Neels Volschenk, who captained the team in their Toyota Challenge victory over the Griffons, told OFM Sport that they place high value on healthy competition within the squad, which also excites the players.
“It's nice to have everyone fighting fit for the upcoming matches in the EPCR Challenge Cup,” said Volschenk.
“You want to have that competition in your squad and in your team—healthy competition. I’ve always felt competition is a good thing for the team. It brings out the best in you and the team as a whole. It’s nice to challenge yourself, push yourself every day. Obviously, you want to be the best – you want to pull the jersey over your head and make a difference in the jersey.”
‘Ideal test before heading to Europe’
The Cheetahs will face the Bulls in Pretoria on Thursday in a warm-up match, providing the perfect opportunity to assess their preseason progress. While the Bulls will not field a full-strength squad due to their United Rugby Championship clash against Connacht in Ireland, their depth ensures they will still put out a formidable team.
Volschenk, who began his professional journey with the Bulls, sees the match as an ideal test before heading to Europe.
Prince Nkabinde. Photo: Morgan Piek
“The Bulls play in the Champions Cup and the URC as well, so they know a thing or two about playing in Europe, having competed there for the past two or three seasons.
“So it's going to be a fun challenge. I think we can measure ourselves against them to see where we still lack and what areas we need to improve on as a team before heading to the EPCR Challenge Cup.”
The warm-up match on Thursday kicks off at 15:00. The Cheetahs will open their EPCR Challenge Cup campaign on December 8 against French Top 14 side Perpignan, with the game set to take place in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
