The SA Cup resumes this weekend following the Easter break, with Round 5 marking a pivotal stage in the competition as the race for the four semi-final spots, and qualification for the Carling Currie Cup Premier Division intensifies.
The Toyota Cheetahs travel to Welkom to face the Griffons in a crucial encounter on Saturday. Kick-off at Down Touch Investments Stadium is scheduled for 15:00, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport 199.
With the competition moving beyond the halfway mark after this round, every result becomes increasingly significant in the push for a place in the semi-finals.
The Toyota Cheetahs head into Round 5 in fifth position on the log, following a 52–19 victory over Eastern Province. Their clinical finishing in that match highlighted their intent and strengthened their semi-final ambitions. A win on the road this weekend would provide a valuable boost in their pursuit of a top-four finish.
Captain Neels Volschenk, who also led the side against the Griffons during the 2024 Toyota Challenge, emphasised the importance of collective leadership within the group:
“I’m fortunate to have a strong group of senior players supporting me both on and off the field. Leadership isn’t always about what you say; it’s about understanding your role and executing it to the best of your ability. That’s the mindset this team has embraced.”
The team will focus on improving their start to avoid unnecessary pressure in the early stages of the game.
Head coach Frans Steyn has named his team for the encounter:
Toyota Cheetahs
- Tielman Nieuwoudt
- Marko Janse van Rensburg
- Aranos Coetzee
- Carl Wegner
- Curtly Thomas
- Daniel Maartens
- Neels Volschenk (C )
- Mihlali Mosi
- Rewan Kruger
- Jaco van der Walt
- Michael Annies
- Jooste Nel
- De-an Ackerman
- Cohen Jasper
- Clayton Blommetjies
- Juan Smal
- Frankie Dos Reis
- John Kelly Okonkwo
- Victor Sekekete
- Pieter Jansen van Vuren
- Sisonke Vumazonke
- Marco Janse van Vuren
- Carel-Jan Coetzee
The referee for the match is Dylen November.
The following players are not eligible for team selection due to injury: Tebogo Nkosi (hand), Tiaan Swanepoel (groin), Sasko Ndlovu (shoulder), Pierre Uys (shoulder), Ntokozo Makhaza (knee) Dux Manyma (neck), Juan Venter (concussion), Vice Hofmeyer (shoulder), Munier Hartzenberg (upper leg), Ben Pitout (ankle) and Xander du Plessis (lower leg).