Erasmus opts for experience in Cheetahs squad
Published
Bloemfontein - Cheetahs coach Rassie Erasmus has named an experienced side to take on derby rivals Griquas in their opening Currie Cup match to be played in Bloemfontein at 1pm on Saturday.
The defending champions will get a chance to test their strength against one of the lower-ranked teams, but Griquas have not lost too many players to national causes so they could prove a solid test.
The Cheetahs have also not been sorely depleted by call-ups or injuries and have named a side full of Super 14 experience.
Six of the seven backline players played consistently in this year's Super 14 - a solid tournament for the newcomers - and should dominate this match.
Erasmus conceded that he felt Griquas would compete well in the set-phases.
Along with an experienced backline Erasmus also named six Super 14 forwards to the starting line-up with another three on the bench and this experience and steel should overcome the challenge of Griquas.
Cheetahs:
Bevin Fortuin, Giscard Pieters, JW Jonker, Meyer Bosman, Gavin Passens, Willem de Waal, Michael Claasens, Ryno van der Merwe, Darron Nel, Hendro Scholtz, Barend Pieterse, Corniel van Zyl, Jannie du Plessis, Rich Verster, Oliie le Roux.
Replacements: Jaco du Toit, Wian du Preez, Rory Duncan, Bian Vermaak, Falie Oelschig, Sinethemba Zweni, Phillip Burger. - Sapa