The Cheetahs have invested in the future as they prepare for the SA Cup playoffs, signing captain Louis van der Westhuizen and scrumhalf Rewan Kruger to extensions.

Both players have extended for two years, reinforcing the squad’s continuity and depth.

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Van der Westhuizen, 30, joined the Cheetahs in 2020 and has played in three Rugby World Cups for Namibia. Kruger, a scrumhalf and product of the Toyota Academy, debuted during the 2021 Toyota Challenge.

In addition to locking in key personnel, the Cheetahs have added John Kelly Okonkwo. The former UCT tighthead prop impressed during two Varsity Cup seasons and also turned out for Wits.

Okonkwo joins UCT winger Ntokozo Makhaza, who is set to join for the 2025 Currie Cup season. Born in Bethlehem, Makhaza was named Varsity Cup Player of the Year and Backline Player of the Year after helping Ikeys win the 2025 final against Maties.

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Also signing on for next season is Tielman Nieuwoudt, a 22-year-old loosehead prop and Grey College product. Nieuwoudt, who played for the Vodacom Bulls, will link up with the squad in July.

The Cheetahs travel to Kimberley to face Griquas on Saturday. Griquas sit second on the log, with the Cheetahs just behind in third, setting the stage for a juicy contest in the  SA Cup playoff race.

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