Swanepoel joined the Cheetahs last month, but was unable to take to the field as the team had already reached its quota of foreign players. However, recent changes to the competition rules now allow for five international players in a squad, with a maximum of three allowed to play in any given match.

Swanepoel had briefly parted ways with the Cheetahs due to a lack of game time and had not yet signed his contract. But with the rule changes in place, the Cheetahs managed to bring him back to Bloemfontein, and he’s now training with the team again.

George Lourens and Prince Nkabinde - Morgan Piek

The talented flyhalf is expected to add significant value to the squad, especially with his powerful kicking game. Known for having a "howitzer" of a boot, he is not only capable of long-range kicks but is also deadly accurate.

For now, Swanepoel may start off the bench against the Bulldogs, as Clayton Blommetjies has recovered from flu and is likely to wear the number ten jersey once more.

This match could also mark the return of versatile outside back James Verity-Amm, who has been sidelined with a long-term knee injury. With a crucial encounter against the Suzuki Griquas looming next week—which could go down to the wire—head coach Frans Steyn may use this game to ease Verity-Amm back into action.

Clayton Blommetjies - Morgan Piek

While the Cheetahs will give some game time to players who haven’t featured much this season, they will also look for continuity in selection, as a win is essential to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

One welcome selection dilemma for Steyn this week is the form of George Lourens, who had an outstanding game in last week’s 59–17 victory over the Valke, also in Bloemfontein.

“I think for me, George, on the weekend he played his best game since I've been here or since he's been at the Cheetahs,” Steyn told OFM Sport.

“I think the way we structured it and the way we want to do things actually works for him.

“And let's see on the weekend, rugby is a funny game with a little bit of confidence, let's see how the guy goes.”

In addition, the powerful centre, Carel-Jan Coetzee, is set to return following a knee injury, and this is something that excites Steyn as well. Steyn will announce his team for the must-win match later in the week.

Saturday’s match between the Toyota Cheetahs and Border Bulldogs kicks off at 15:00 at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport