Frans 'pushing to go south' to save Cheetahs

09/16/2024 04:12 AM

Director of rugby Frans Steyn said the Cheetahs, having been dumped out of the 2024 Currie Cup, are desperately searching for a competition to join to remain competitive.

On Saturday, the Lions came from behind to beat the defending champions 43-34 at Ellis Park in Johannesburg to reach their first final in five years.

Playing the opening semi-final of the weekend in the early-afternoon heat of Johannesburg, there was not much to choose between the teams, and went into the break deadlocked at 19-19.

Flyhalf Ethan Wentzel was a constant threat for the Cheetahs and scored two tries while also slotting two conversions. Captain Victor Sekekete put in a hard-working shift, but the Free Staters found the Pride’s second half intensity too much to handle.

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Following the Highveld, Steyn emphasised the need for consistent, top-tier rugby to build belief within the Cheetahs squad Steyn, and is determined to secure international competition for the union, despite political challenges.

"I think the biggest thing is not being in a big competition," Steyn, in his first season at the helm of the Bloemfontein outfit, said. "I came here today [Saturday] with the belief we have a very good team, but the players need to believe that too."

Steyn hinted at efforts to re-enter international rugby, potentially through a return to Super Rugby. "I am pushing hard to go south," he revealed. "It will be good for South Africa and the Currie Cup."

However, the two-time Springbok world champion acknowledged the political roadblocks. "Politics is a massive thing in rugby, and I'm learning as I go. It's flippin' tough."

Despite the obstacles, Steyn remains committed: "We will find people who want to support us, but we must not be blocked."

Photo: @CheetahsRugby/Twitter

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