The new Toyota Cheetahs winger, Ntokozo Makhaza, has finally arrived in Bloemfontein to join his new team ahead of the 2025 Currie Cup, which kicks off later this month.
The speedster’s arrival has been eagerly anticipated, and the fact that he was part of the Springbok alignment camps last month has only added to the excitement. Ntokozo, along with former Junior Springboks captain and UJ flanker Sasko Ndlovu, both reported for duty on Monday morning.
Originally from the Free State, Ntokozo was a standout performer for UCT’s Ikeys over the past few seasons, earning the Varsity Cup Player of the Year title twice.
Speaking to Bloemfontein Courant, the explosive winger with blistering pace and a deadly accurate boot said that having already played alongside and against some of the current Cheetahs players has helped him settle in.
“It’s great to see some familiar faces – guys I used to play against. But like you said, this is a different level. Everyone here is a professional, so there’s a strong sense of focus and discipline,” he said.
“In terms of detail and preparation, it’s actually quite similar to what we did at UCT, which makes the transition smoother. Still, it’s an adjustment – it’s a new environment.”
Ntokozo added that his recent time in the Springbok setup taught him the value of always being ready.
“Always be prepared – that’s what I learnt. Whether I’m training at UCT or with the Cheetahs, you never know when you’ll get the call-up.
“The biggest lesson I took from that camp is to be switched on at training and to give my best, because how you train is how you play. Now I’m a bit more intentional with everything I do, a bit more focused –because opportunities can come at any time.”
This Friday at 13:00, the Cheetahs will take on Griquas in Bultfontein in a Currie Cup warm-up match – and Ntokozo might just get his first run in Free State colours. – MORGAN PIEK
