The Cheetahs got the defence of their Currie Cup title off to the perfect start as they ran out comprehensive 47-12 winners over a Sharks side without its Super Rugby players. The Cheetahs led 17-7 at the break and ran rampant in the second half, crossing for a further four tries to seal an emphatic victory.

Brilliant counter from the Cheetahs as Venter breaks and finds Mkhabela for the try as the hosts finish with a flourish

Lost from Ndungane and the Cheetahs will have one last crack

Powerful run from Vermeulen

Sharks move it wide from their own 22

Final minute of the match

Lost forward for a Sharks scrum

Out wide to Blommetjies, Afrika up to the 22

Turnover Cheetahs on halfway

Vermeulen carries up to halfway