Underdog Cheetahs ready to test Griquas in Kimberley Currie Cup semi-final clash

The Toyota Cheetahs are heading into Saturday’s Carling Currie Cup semi-final against the Suzuki Griquas with no illusions about the challenge that awaits them in Kimberley – but they’re relishing the opportunity to prove themselves.

The Bloemfontein outfit secured their place in the play-offs after a dramatic late surge against the Vodacom Bulls in Pretoria. Despite trailing 35-5 with 20 minutes to play, the Cheetahs fought back to secure two crucial log points in a 35-31 defeat, doing enough to leapfrog the Pumas and Boland Cavaliers into third place on the standings.

Underdogs, but not pushovers

Cheetahs winger Prince Nkabinde, who has been a key figure in recent matches, told OFM Sport the team is determined to make their mark.

“We’re excited more than anything to play in the semi-final,” he said. “We want to showcase what this team is capable of, play our brand of rugby, and leave no stone unturned. We’re going to Kimberley as underdogs, but it’s a good challenge for us.”

The Cheetahs’ preparation has been hampered by injuries at fly-half, with Franco Smith Jr. sidelined after a concussion and other key players in the position also unavailable. That leaves outside backs Clayton Blommetjies and Cohen Jasper as the only options to wear the No.10 jersey. Still, the team insists they have “shown time and again that they can adapt and find a way.”

Derby with high stakes

Saturday’s clash will be the fifth meeting between the Cheetahs and Griquas this season, and the third in Kimberley. Recent results favour the home side, who beat the Free Staters in back-to-back SA Cup fixtures, a Currie Cup warm-up, and most recently by a dominant 40-10 in Bloemfontein.

But the Cheetahs believe the derby intensity levels the playing field. With the match doubling as the OFM Challenge Cup, there is plenty on the line for both teams.

Griquas at home

For the hosts, the occasion is huge. The Griquas return to their Kimberley “fortress” for a home semi-final in the Currie Cup, after finishing second on the log with 25 points. Their form through the season has been strong, despite ending the league phase with a heavy 37-7 defeat to the Fidelity ADT Lions.

Kick-off at Suzuki Stadium is scheduled for 7.15pm, with a spot in the Currie Cup final awaiting the winner. One thing is certain: the Cheetahs may wear the underdog tag, but they won’t make things easy for their central rivals.