This Friday afternoon, Bloemfontein comes alive when the Toyota Cheetahs host the Griquas in what promises to be one of the most defining Carling Currie Cup encounters of the season. Kick-off at Toyota Stadium is set for 17:00, with all the action live on SuperSport – but let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite like being there in person.
Match Day Buzz
The gates swing open at 14:00, and the day kicks off with future stars taking centre stage as Fichardtpark and Voortrekker (BVHS) battle it out in the U-14 Shimla Youth League final at 14:45. Off the field, there’s plenty to keep families entertained – from food trucks dishing up local favourites to live tunes at the Castle Deck, where Jac Philips will set the mood before DJ LeGoody carries the party late into the evening.
And for the lucky few, the Kloppers Expert Half-Time Kicking Competition could turn a regular Friday into something unforgettable. Fans who bought match tickets stand the chance to line up a kick at one of eight bins, with prizes ranging from a Weber Kettle Braai to a R2,000 Kloppers voucher, even a Snomaster Ice Machine.
Tickets remain incredibly affordable – R60 for the main stand, R40 for the open stand, and just R30 for students and kids. Die-hard Toyota fans even get free parking if they drive their bakkie or sedan to the stadium, though spots are limited, so arrive early.
And don’t forget – it’s Orange Friday! Supporters rocking their orange gear and sharing photos with #OrangeFriday stand a chance to win some serious kit, thanks to Kiloton.
Sekekete’s 100th: A Milestone Worth Celebrating
Friday’s clash carries extra weight for Cheetahs skipper Victor Sekekete, who runs out for his 100th cap in the orange jersey. The lock forward, who joined the side in 2020 from none other than the Griquas, has become a cornerstone of Cheetahs rugby.
“It’s a dream come true,” Sekekete reflected this week. “If you walk into the change rooms and see the names of the legends who played here before, it inspires you. I’ve been blessed to stay relatively injury-free, and I owe so much to my family for their support. I’m truly grateful.”
Since arriving in Bloemfontein, Sekekete has racked up 58 Currie Cup appearances, plus more across the Franchise Cup, Toyota Challenge, EPCR Challenge Cup, SA Cup, and even a fixture against Georgia. His consistency and leadership have been vital for the men in orange.
Team News: Four Changes and a Debut
Cheetahs head coach Frans Steyn has made four adjustments to his line-up for the Griquas test. The front row shuffle sees Hencus van Wyk and Cameron Dawson trade places, while John-Kelly Okonkwo earns a dream debut at tighthead prop. Frankie Dos Reis takes up a spot on the bench, ready to make an impact if called on.
In the backline, Carel-Jan Coetzee shifts into the number 12 jersey with Marco Janse van Vuren moving to outside centre. Utility back Ali Mgijima slots onto the bench, while Pierre-Raymond Uys also returns to the matchday squad.
Forwards coach Tiaan Liebenberg knows the challenge that awaits: “Games between the Cheetahs and Griquas have always been massive. They’re the in-form side right now, with a dominant pack and great coaching. But come Friday, we’ve got to front up and show our own intensity.”
Toyota Cheetahs Matchday Squad
Starting XV
- Hencus van Wyk
- Marko Jansen van Rensburg
- John-Kelly Okonkwo
- Juan Venter
- Victor Sekekete (C) – 100th cap
- Gideon van der Merwe
- Mihlali Mosi
- Neels Volschenk
- Rewan Kruger
- Franco Smith
- Cohen Jasper
- Carel-Jan Coetzee
- Marco Janse van Vuren
- Prince Nkabinde
- Clayton Blommetjies
Replacements
16. Vernon Paulo
17. Cameron Dawson
18. Frankie Dos Reis
19. Pierre-Raymond Uys
20. Daniel Maartens
21. Jandré Nel
22. Ali Mgijima
23. Michael Annies
Looking Ahead
With injuries keeping the likes of Carl Wegner, George Lourens, Tiaan Swanepoel and James Verity-Amm sidelined, the Cheetahs will once again rely on squad depth and youthful energy. The Griquas, meanwhile, arrive in Bloem riding strong form, making this clash a true test of mettle.
It’s more than just rugby on Friday – it’s a community gathering, a chance to celebrate one of Bloem’s favourite sons reaching a milestone, and an opportunity for fans to make their voices heard. So, wear your orange with pride, bring the gees, and be part of what promises to be an electric evening at Toyota Stadium.
