Hartzenberg has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring against Lyon in France during their last EPCR Challenge Cup game earlier this year. 

Now fully recovered, he will make his comeback from the bench on Saturday. This is a significant boost for the Cheetahs, especially as more players gradually return from injury. 

Marko Janse van Rensburg could play his first game since October. Photo: Morgan Piek

It comes at a crucial time, with the team under some pressure following their weekend defeat to the Pumas in Nelspruit. There is some doubt over the availability of inside centre Ali Mgijima, who has picked up the flu.

The Cheetahs are expected to make several changes to their squad, seizing the opportunity to give game time to players who haven’t featured much this season. This includes the likes of Andell Loubser, who offers the team additional options in the backline.

The Cheetahs speedster told OFM Sport that he is eager to get back onto the field. “I’m really looking forward to getting back on the pitch, even if it’s from the bench,” said the ever-smiling Hartzenberg.

Andell Loubser. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Hopefully, I can make an impact and bring energy and vibes. That’s my goal for the game.

“EP have shown how courageous they are and the quality they have in their side. If we’re not mentally switched on, they could give us a real run for our money. So we need to be sharp and come out firing.”

The Cheetahs do have an injury concern in eighth man Jeandré Rudolph, who picked up a knee niggle during the croc roll that saw Jan-Henning Campher receive a red card in Nelspruit.

Saturday’s game between Eastern Province and the Cheetahs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will kick off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh