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8h ago

Cheetahs Open Challenge Cup in Bayonne With Round‑of‑16 Target

Frans Steyn has demanded a Round‑of‑16 finish to force better results from a squad now using Swansea as its European base.

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - JANUARY 14: Victor Sekekete of Toyota Cheetahs runs at and is stopped by Reece Hewat of Section Paloise during the EPCR Challenge Cup match between Toyota Cheetahs and Section Paloise at NRCA Stadium on January 14, 2024 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn says his team has no excuse not to do well in this seasons Challenge Cup competition kicking off this weekend. Picture: Danie Van Der Lith/Gallo Images
Frans Steyn issues challenge to Cheetahs ahead of Challenge Cup

Overview

  • The Cheetahs travel to Bayonne for their opening EPCR Challenge Cup match on Sunday at Stade Jean Dauger.
  • Director of Rugby Frans Steyn has set a clear target of reaching the Round of 16 and told the squad there are 'no excuses' for poor performance.
  • The club has named St Helen's Stadium in Swansea as its new European base and will play at least two home fixtures there this season to provide logistical stability.
  • Loose forward Carl Els has joined on loan from Griquas and Steyn expects him to make an immediate impact on the pack against Bayonne.
  • The changes come after a winless Challenge Cup pool stage last season and a Currie Cup semi‑final exit, and the Cheetahs see the opener as a tester of their preparation from the Toyota Challenge in Georgia and their ability to compete with Bayonne's Top 14 squad.