The good performances by the Cheetah looseforwards against the Sharks the past weekend, has given coach Naka Drotskè enough reason to hold back the return of bok flanker Heinrich Brüssow. The Cheetahs loose trio of Frans Viljoen, Lappies Labuschagne and Phillip van der Walt gave a good account of themselves in a losing cause. Boom Prinsloo also made a positive contribution from the replacement bench. Phillip van der Walt played probably his best Super Rugby match to date and he combined well with Lappies in creating a well-crafted try.

The injury to lineout specialist Waltie Vermeulen has opened the door for Rynhardt “Ligtoring” Landman to tour with the Cheetahs group on the Australasian leg of the Competition.

Other news from the Cheetahs camp is that Springbok flyhalf Johan Goosen shook off most of the rust which showed in his first half performance against the Sharks and played much better in the second stanza. Bok prop Coenie Oosthuizen has also come through his second half appearance unscathed and should start against the Chiefs.

The Cheetahs ran the Chiefs close in Bloemfontein last year despite being outscored five tries to two, eventually losing by six points. After the Chiefs commanding victory over the Highlanders and playing at home, the Chiefs will be heavy favourites. The Cheetahs will have to improve drastically in the set pieces to have a chance in this encounter.