The Cheetahs will have both their key Springbok veterans back for their Currie Cup opener against Griquas in Bloemfontein on Saturday. Coach Hawies Fourie understandably had little hesitation including regular skipper Ruan Pienaar and Frans Steyn, particularly since both of them boast reasonable match fitness going into the new season. The duo will also serve as a cushion for the mercurial Chris Smit, who's been surprisingly picked at flyhalf in a ploy assist the Cheetahs in creating more attacking opportunities. Ruan is a really good kicker out of hand and Frans and Clayton (Blommetjies also possess good boots," said Fourie. Pienaar, who'll turn 38 this year, expressed his delight at being back in the City of Roses following his Durban stint.

Source: News 24 January 13, 2022 11:12 UTC