International rugby will return to Bloemfontein when Georgia’s national team take on the Toyota Cheetahs on 12 July, a week before their test against the Springboks in Nelspruit.
The Georgians, who will tour to South Africa for the second time, will cross swords with the Free Staters at the Toyota Stadium.
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, said: “We received a request from Georgia for an extra match on their tour and what better opponent than the Toyota Cheetahs, who will be in the middle of their season at that stage.
“We believe it’ll be a great occasion for Cheetah fans and rugby supporters in Central South Africa and it will give our visitors a proper hit-out before they take on the Springboks.”
Rory Duncan, CEO of the Free State Cheetahs, said: “We are thrilled to host Georgia at Toyota Stadium for what promises to be an exciting encounter. This is a fantastic opportunity for our supporters to witness top-class rugby in Bloemfontein.
“Playing against Georgia will be a great test for the Toyota Cheetahs. The team is up for the challenge, and we are eager to see how we measure against an international side.”
Richard Cockerill, a former England hooker who is now the head coach of Georgia, was equally excited about the match.
“Playing the Cheetahs will be a great opportunity for us to prepare for the test match against the Boks,” said Cockerill, who also coached England before taking up the position with the Lelos.
“Bloemfontein is a great place to play rugby, and the Toyota Stadium is an amazing venue. We are excited about testing ourselves against a great rugby nation.”
The Boks’ clash against Georgia on 19 July at the Mbombela Stadium will be the third and last in the Castle Lager Incoming Series, which kicks off with two test against Italy, on 5 July in Pretoria and a week later in Gqeberha.