Super Rugby Preview: Cheetahs

The Cheetahs

The Cheetahs, much like the Bulls, went into the 2016 competition with new coach Franco Smith having a crack at his 1^st full season of Super Rugby. They struggled at the start of the season but their attractive brand of running rugby would always excite the fans.

However, their inability to finish off games, accompanied with mediocre defence meant they would finish the year's competition in 13^th place overall and 3^rd in the Africa 1 conference. They have since become Currie Cup Champions, having won every single game in the competition and will hope that some of that form reflects in Super Rugby 2017.

Franco Smith will hope that some international experience for key players such as Francois Venter, Sergeal Petersen and Usiar Cassiem will inspire a resurgence in Super Rugby results as they kick off their 2017 campaign against the Lions on 25 February, in Bloemfontein.

Head Coach: Franco Smith

Notable departures: Lood de Jager (Bulls)

Notable additions: Junior Pokomela (Southern Kings), Ryno Eksteen(Stormers)

Captain: Francois Venter

Forward to watch: Oupa Mohoje

Back to watch: Sergeal Petersen

Rising Star: Ox Nche