/ 19 October 2004

Cheetahs include Claassens in squad

Scrumhalf Michael Claassens, who could be a surprise inclusion in the Springbok rugby team, has been included in the Cheetahs squad to play the Blue Bulls in Saturday’s Currie Cup final at Loftus.

The names of centre Friedrich Lombard and loose forward Ryno van der Merwe have also been added to the squad out of which coach Peet Kleynhans will pick the final 22.

Claassens struggled with a knee injury but has fully recovered.

”I am 100%,” said Claassens.

However, he is unlikely to be included in the starting line-up at the cost of Noel Oelschig who played well against Western Province. — Sapa

Cheetahs squad:

Backs: Tsepo Kokoali, Jaco van Schalkwyk, Eddie Fredericks, Anton Pitout, Chris Kruger, Friedrich Lombard, Jacques Claassens, Barry Goodes, Kennedy Tsimba, Willem de Waal, Noel Oelschig, Michael Claassens.

Forwards: Rassie Erasmus (captain), Ryno van der Merwe, Juan Smith, Hendro Scholtz, Gerrie Britz, Boela du Plooy, Barend Pieterse, Rayno Gerber, CJ van der Linde, Os du Randt, Gurthro Steenkamp, Hanyani Shimange, Naka Drotske.