Georgia to face Cheetahs ahead of Springboks Test

Georgia's national rugby team is set to bolster its preparations for the upcoming Test against the Springboks by facing the Cheetahs in a match scheduled for July 12 in Bloemfontein.

This encounter offers the Lelos an invaluable opportunity to acclimate to South African conditions and gauge their readiness against a formidable franchise side.

The fixture against the Cheetahs comes strategically a week before Georgia's Test match against South Africa, slated for July 19 at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit. This sequence allows the Georgian squad to fine-tune their strategies and adapt to the playing style prevalent in South Africa.

SA Rugby emphasized the significance of this preparatory match, highlighting that Georgia had requested an additional fixture during their tour.

Facing the Cheetahs, who will be in the middle of their season, presents an ideal challenge for the visitors and provides rugby fans in Central South Africa with another top-tier match to enjoy.

The Cheetahs have also welcomed the opportunity to host Georgia, seeing it as a chance to test themselves against international opposition.

The match at Free State Stadium is expected to be an exciting encounter, giving supporters the chance to witness high-quality rugby while offering the Cheetahs a unique challenge.

Georgia’s head coach Richard Cockerill expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming match, stating that it will serve as a crucial preparation step for their clash with the Springboks.

He also acknowledged Bloemfontein as a historic rugby venue and emphasized how valuable this fixture will be for his squad ahead of a major international Test.

This tour marks Georgia's second visit to South Africa, reflecting the growing rugby relationship between the two nations. Their upcoming Test against the Springboks will be the third and final match in the Incoming Series, which begins with two Tests against Italy on July 5 in Pretoria and July 12 in Gqeberha.