Coach Frans Steyn says Duane Vermeulen’s visit to the Cheetahs this week is a huge opportunity for the players to learn from the Bok legend, and impress Rassie Erasmus.

Steyn will host his fellow double world champion at training, as the Bloemfontein outfit continues building momentum in the SA Cup. The third-placed Cheetahs thrashed SWD Eagles last week for their fourth victory and second consecutive win. 

Part of Erasmus’ Bok backroom staff, Vermeulen’s visit forms part of his “roving coaching role” across SA Rugby’s national teams, where he travels to unions countrywide helping players refine specific aspects of their game.

It also comes at an opportune moment for Steyn’s coaching development. The former Bok playmaker took the director of rugby position at the Cheetahs last year before stepping into his first head coaching role.

“He’s got so much knowledge when it comes to areas like the breakdown and mauls – especially the breakdown, which we’re currently struggling with,” Steyn told OFM Sport.

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“Sometimes it takes someone else saying exactly what I’m already saying for the players to really take it in.

“There’s no need to rush – on Tuesday, when he’s here, we can slow things down and make sure we get the small details right.”

Vermeulen retired after South Africa’s 2023 World Cup triumph and quickly transitioned into Erasmus’ coaching setup. Though he began his career with the Pumas, Vermeulen made his mark at the Cheetahs from 2007 to 2009 before moving to the Stormers and Western Province.

“As coaches, it’s also good for us to get a sense of what’s trending with Rassie and the Boks, and what they’re focusing on,” added Steyn, who coaches alongside ex-Bok Ruan Pienaar. 

“You must remember – Duane’s going back to Rassie after this, and they’re definitely going to chat. What are the Cheetahs up to? Which players are standing out?

“So for us, it’s a huge opportunity, especially for the players. I’m really looking forward to having him here. It’ll be good for the players to see how the Boks do things.”

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