More Cheetahs stars join Ospreys in 'win-win situation'

TRANSFER NEWS: As part of our rugby partnership, three Cheetahs players will join the Ospreys on a short-term loan to reinforce the squad over the coming weeks.

Following the success of the first player loan agreement, which saw Dan Kasende, Marnus van der Merwe, and Rewan Kruger join the Ospreys late last year for a short period, three new Cheetahs players will join the Ospreys in training next week.

This unique rugby partnership launched in late 2023 and saw previous loanees Dan and Rewan playing in the West Wales Derby, where the Ospreys convincingly beat the Scarlets. Kasende proved exceptionally popular with fans with his effervescent personality and lightning-quick footwork on the pitch.

This time, centre Evardi Boshoff, loose forward Jeandré Rudolph and Cheetahs captain, Victor Sekekete, who previously represented South Africa Under-20 joined the Ospreys.

All three players were part of the Cheetahs 2023 Currie Cup winning squad.

With a critically high number of players currently unavailable due to injury or international duty, the Cheetahs' incomings will reinforce the squad at a crucial time for the Ospreys. Presently in 8th position in the URC and the highest-ranked Welsh team, the Ospreys are at a critical stage as we look to mobilise all resources to overcome the odds on the road to the URC knock-outs.

On the announcement, Ospreys head coach, Toby Booth said; “We are thrilled to further our partnership with the Cheetahs.

"The first batch of players who joined us last year certainly added value to the squad, and the partnership has proved successful for both clubs.

“Between the well-documented difficulties in Welsh rugby, including squad size and budget constraints, and a seemingly never-ending injury list, we need to innovate and look for ways to remain competitive, and this is one of those ways.

“While it’s unfortunate that due to his recent suspension, we couldn’t bring back stand-out Dan Kasende, we are confident that the new batch of players will provide the cover we need and contribute to the team’s performance as we head into key matches this season.”

Cheetah's CEO, Ross van Reenen, commented: "We are thrilled to provide our players with the unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience that will undoubtedly contribute to their personal and professional evolution.

"Importantly, this strategic move ensures that our players remain an integral part of the Cheetah team, with their return timed perfectly for participation in the SA Cup in March.

"This initiative showcases the global recognition of our players' skill and calibre and underscores our commitment to nurturing their growth and development.

"It's a win-win situation, strengthening our ties with the Ospreys while propelling our players to new heights on the rugby stage."

The first potential home game for the Cheetahs players is the Ospreys' next URC match against Ulster on February 18 in Swansea.

Home ground advantage can’t be understated enough, and the Ospreys will need you there to support them as they look to inch further to the URC knock-outs.