Share

Frans Viljoen to face 'Canes

Cape Town - Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské has confirmed that flank Frans Viljoen will replace the injured Lappies Labuschagné in their Super Rugby clash against the Hurricanes in Bloemfontein on Friday.

Labuschagné injured his elbow against the Kings on Apil 27, and according tothe Volksblad website, is no yet ready to return. Drotské said he could return for their match against the Reds on May 18.

Viljoen will therefore start in his fifth Super Rugby game this season on Friday, and his physicality will he welcomed by the Cheetahs. The 30-year-old Viljoen has impressed with his performances this year after receiving a lifeline from Drotské at the beginning of the season. He was without a contract after a string of injuries hampered his form in recent years.

Boom Prinsloo will also provide some much needed spark off the bench.

"Frans and Heins (Heinrich Brüssow) will start. Frans is physical and the right guy to pick against a New Zealand team," said Drotské.

"Lappies is good in the lineouts and we'll miss his high work-rate, but there's nothing we can do about that."

The Cheetahs, who had a bye last week, are currently sixth on the overall Super Rugby log, and second in the South African conference.

Kick-off at the Free State Stadium is at 19:10 on Friday.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE