Rested Province raring to go

Western Province have set their sights on a commanding showing in the second round of the Currie Cup starting for them against the Cheetahs this afternoon at Newlands.

Having lost their last game by one point against the Sharks at home, they enjoyed a bye last week and were stuck in fourth position before this weekend having lost three of their six games.

But with the Golden Lions and the Blue Bulls in rebuilding phases and the Cheetahs weakened because of their Pro14 involvement, a potential final has already been forecast between coastal sides, the log-leading Sharks and Province.

“It is vital that we produce some good rugby this weekend in order to gain some momentum going forward,” said Province coach John Dobson. “The players are determined to show what they are capable of and are looking forward to the opportunity to play at Newlands.”

Bolstered by the return of experienced scrumhalf Jano Vermaak from Springbok duty, the “other” Vermaak, loosehead prop Ali Vermaak (above), will earn his 50th cap for Province today.

The 28-year-old prop is joined in the front row by hooker Ramone Samuels, with Chad Solomon on the replacement bench alongside Michael Kumbirai.

The other changes to the forwards comes among the replacements, with Sikhumbuzo Notshe and Kobus van Dyk providing loose forward cover.

In the backline, there are two changes with Craig Barry making his Currie Cup debut at fullback and Blitzbok star Werner Kok on the wing, while there’s another Sevens star on the other wing in the form of Ruhan Nel.

On the bench, flyhalf Robert du Preez gets another opportunity after making his long awaited comeback from injury against the Sharks.

Du Preez, linked with a move to Durban next year, suffered a torn pectoral muscle following his side’s final Super Rugby tour game against the Hurricanes.

Kick-off: 3pm.