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Faf de Klerk is back in the starting jersey, and Frans Steyn means business. The Cheetahs coach has recalled his talismanic scrumhalf to the starting XV for Sunday's Currie Cup showdown against Stormers XXIII at Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch, kicking off at 15:00 SAST, and the backline overhaul that accompanies De Klerk's return tells you exactly how much Steyn wants to win this one.
De Klerk's Role in Cheetahs Attack
De Klerk's distribution and game management are the engine room of this Cheetahs attack. Without him pulling the strings at nine, the Free Staters lack the control and tempo that makes their backline click. His return is the headline, but Steyn has gone further — reshuffling both the midfield and back three in what shapes as a calculated attempt to exploit specific matchup advantages against a Stormers XXIII outfit that rarely hands out freebies on home turf.
Recent Form Sets Context for Clash
The context matters. The Cheetahs have had a difficult run of it, going down 24-21 to Griquas in their most recent outing after back-to-back wins over the Sharks and Lions had suggested genuine momentum was building. Griquas have twice beaten Steyn's men this season, and the pressure to respond with a strong performance away from home is real. Stormers XXIII, meanwhile, are coming off a 36-28 win over the Sharks and will be full of confidence at Danie Craven.
High Stakes in Currie Cup Standings
This fixture carries genuine weight in the standings. The Cheetahs cannot afford to let the competition slip away from them, and Steyn's bold personnel calls signal he understands that perfectly. A fully-fit, fully-motivated De Klerk orchestrating play from the base of the scrum gives the visitors their best shot at controlling territory and field position — the two currencies that win close games in Cape Town.