The Toyota Cheetahs are set for a timely boost as they kick off their preseason on Monday ahead of the 2026 SA Cup.
Regular captain and lock Victor Sekekete is back in the mix after recovering from a facial fracture sustained during the 42–12 defeat to the Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park in England in December.
The injury sidelined the towering second-rower for the remaining three EPCR Challenge Cup fixtures – unfamiliar territory for both player and team, given Sekekete’s remarkable durability since joining the Cheetahs.
Renowned for playing virtually every minute of every match, the enforced break was rare for the hard-working lock. In many ways, however, it proved to be a blessing in disguise, allowing him some much-needed rest.
Sekekete has completed his rehabilitation, received the all-clear from the medical team, and returned to full training.
He also resumed contact sessions earlier this week – a major milestone in his recovery.
The 32-year-old told Bloemfontein Courant that while the injury came as a shock, he is grateful for how things have turned out.
“The injury came very unexpectedly, but I’m grateful because it could have been much worse,” said Sekekete.
“I’ve been out for about eight weeks now. The doctors are happy with my recovery, and I’ve started my return to play, including contact training this week.
“I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in once preseason starts and getting the fitness back. It’s good that the SA Cup is happening and that there are more games – game time is exactly what we need at this point, and I’m excited to get back on the field.”
The Cheetahs’ season is expected to get underway on 6 March in Bloemfontein, where they will host Hawies Fourie’s Boland Cavaliers in their opening SA Cup clash. – MORGAN PIEK
