Rugby
Verity-Amm fit and firing after lengthy injury layoff─── MORGAN PIEK 09:27 Thu, 10 Apr 2025
Versatile Toyota Cheetahs outside back, James Verity-Amm, is fit and available for selection after spending just under a year on the sidelines.
On 27 April last year, Verity-Amm suffered a serious knee injury during the Cheetahs’ 46–14 win over the SWD Eagles in George in the SA Cup. After undergoing surgery and enduring a long rehabilitation and return-to-play process, Verity-Amm is back in full training and looking sharp.
The 30-year-old joined the Cheetahs in 2024 but had limited game time in the white jersey before picking up what was potentially a career-threatening injury. Now, he’s back to full fitness and has been putting in the hard yards in preparation for his return to the field.
James Verity-Amm. Photo: Morgan Piek
At this stage of the SA Cup, the Cheetahs are focusing on continuity in their team selection – particularly in the backline. They’re in a crucial stretch of fixtures, and if they come through it successfully, they’ll qualify for the Currie Cup Premier Division once more.
Cheetahs head coach, Frans Steyn, told OFM Sport that Verity-Amm is unlikely to feature in this weekend’s clash against the SWD Eagles in Bloemfontein, but confirmed that the player is fully fit and available.
“He’s ready and 100% recovered. But for now, especially in the backline, we’re trying to build a bit of continuity,” said Steyn.
“It’s good for squad depth, but we want to build some consistency – call it what you like. We just want to get through this week, see where we stand, and then take it from there.”
Steyn added that it’s time for the backline players to start performing – or face the possibility of changes ahead of their next game against the Valke.
“I think everyone gave it their all. The players were brilliant with their effort,” said Steyn.
Andisa Ntsila. Photo: Morgan Piek
“Guys like Andy Ntsila, Banele Mthenjane – they’re back and they’ve put in a massive shift. Marko Janse van Rensburg at hooker, too – they’ve all been great.
“But we need to figure out our combinations going forward. That’s where we’re at. So, I can say without a doubt – if the backline doesn’t fire this weekend, there’ll be changes heading into the Valke match.”
The Toyota Cheetahs face the SWD Eagles at the Toyota Stadium. The game on Saturday will kick off at 15:00.
