The versatile Victor Sekekete has been named captain of the Cheetahs for the Toyota Challenge and 2022-23 Challenge Cup campaign.

Sekekete, who joined the Cheetahs in 2020 and has since played in 33 matches for the Bloemfontein side, takes the reins from Ruan Pienaar, who led the Free Staters in 35 games.

The former Varsity Cup and SA U20 star has been a regular starter for Hawies Fourie’s men the past two seasons, and was named the Cheetahs’ standout forward for the 2022 Currie Cup season.

Together with Pienaar, the 28-year-old Sekekete is the only player to have played in all the Cheetahs’ 13 Currie Cup games last season.

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“It’s a great honour for me to captain the Cheetahs,” said Sekekete, who is able to slot in at flank or lock.

“I’m humbled to have the backing of the coaches and players to allow me to lead on and off the field, and to be trusted with this big responsibility. I’m looking forward to the journey.”

Pienaar added: “I’m nearing the end of my rugby career, and I want to focus on my game and enjoy it without the extra pressure of captaincy.”

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