Oosthuizen has been sidelined for over a year after suffering a serious knee injury shortly after making his Griquas debut in 2023. Although he’s been fit and ready for some time now, the Griquas believe this weekend is the perfect moment to unleash the player affectionately known as Vlam.

In addition to Oosthuizen’s return, the Griquas have named a debutant on the bench – Ntobeko Shezi, a former North-West University Eagles tighthead prop, who recently joined the team in Kimberley.

Pieter Bergh. Photo: Gallo

Head coach Pieter Bergh told OFM Sport that the fiery loosie is thrilled to be back and the team is excited to reward him for his hard work behind the scenes.

“He got injured in the Airlink Cup very early on after joining us – that was towards the end of 2023,” said Bergh.

“He’s been out for more than a year and hasn’t had an opportunity yet.

“Look, he’s very hungry – full of energy – and we felt that after the disappointment of the Nelspruit game, where we really felt we should’ve come away with a win, it was the right time to bring in some new energy.

“We wanted to give a chance to guys who are hungry to play and looking to grab the opportunity – and Vlam is one of them. He brings something different to the table.

“He’s quick, powerful and strong. We feel he can really add value this weekend. If he makes the most of this opportunity, he could get another shot next week. We’re not shy to give players a chance, and we’re also not shy to reward those who take theirs – we’ve done that before. This is a great opportunity for Vlam to shine.

Ntobeko Shezi. Photo: ASEM Engage

“He was absolutely over the moon when I told him he’d be starting. He’s trained well and has definitely added value this week.”

Friday’s game between SWD and the Griquas at Outeniqua Park kicks off at 18:00.

SWD Eagles – TBA

Griquas – 15 Cameron Hufke, 14 Dylan Maart, 13 Mnombo Zwelendaba, 12 Tertius Kruger, 11 Gurswin Wehr, 10 Tylor Sefoor, 9 Thomas Bursey, 8 Carl Els, 7 Marco de Witt, 6 Lourens Oosthuizen, 5 Albert Liebenberg, 4 Athenkosi, 3 Cebo Dlamini, 2 Janco Uys, 1 Leon Lyons

Replacements - 16 Gustav du Rand, 17 Eddie Davids, 18 Ntobeko Shezi, 19 Dylan Sjoblom, 20 Gustav Erlank, 21 Bobby Alexzander, 22 Zane Bester, 23 Connor Mahoney

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg