Cheetahs cubs thrown in the deep end
The Argentine franchise may be making their debut in the competition but the country is known for their physical approach. The Jaguares pack will prove to be a massive test for the Cheetahs, whose only international experience comes in the form of Namibian hooker Torsten van Jaarsveld and Springbok lock Lodewyk de Jager.
The inexperienced pack is complimented by an experienced backline which sees Fred Zeilinga being handed the pivot role while there is plenty of speed and skill in the back three that features Raymond Rhule, Sergeal Petersen and Clayton Blommetjies.
Francois Venter will captain the side from outside centre and is partnered with William Small-Smith in the midfield.
Cheetahs: 15 Clayton Blommetjies, 14 Sergeal Petersen, 13 Francois Venter (captain), 12 William Small-Smith, 11 Raymond Rhule, 10 Fred Zeilinga, 9 Shaun Venter, 8 Niell Jordaan, 7 Uzair Cassiem, 6 Johannes Prinsloo, 5 Lodewyk de Jager, 4 Carl Wegner, 3 Nicolaas van Dyk, 2 Torsten van Jaarsveld, 1 Charles Marais.
Replacements: 16 Jacques du Toit, 17 Retshegofaditswe Nche, 18 Luan de Bruin, 19 Reniel Hugo, 20 Henco Venter, 21 Paul Schoeman, 22 Tian Meyer, 23 Niel Marais.
Date: Friday, February 26
Venue: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein
Kick-off: 19.10 (17.10 GMT; 13.10 ART)
Referee: Stuart Berry (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Rasta Rasivhenge (South Africa), Lourens van der Merwe (South Africa)
TMO: Johan Greeff (South Africa)
