Faf de Klerk returns to Cheetahs lineup for Bayonne Challenge Cup clash

The 34-year-old was rested for the Free Staters' recent Tbilisi Cup campaign in Georgia but will partner flyhalf Tiaan Swanepoel at the Stade Jean-Dauger.

Coach Frans Steyn has also handed a debut to number eight Carl Els, who joined the Cheetahs on loan after helping Griquas win a second successive Currie Cup title.

Captain Neels Volschenk joins Simon Miller in the loose forwards, with Victor Sekekete and Carl Wegner forming the second row. Matome Manyama, Louis van der Westhuizen and Frankie Dos Reis make up the starting front row.

Carel-Jan Coetzee and Zander du Plessis combine in midfield, with Michael Annies and Prince Nkabinde on the wings and Henry Immelman at fullback.

Steyn expects a hostile reception in France but is relishing the challenge against a Bayonne side packed with international experience.

"I've played against Bayonne in Bayonne with Henry, so I know what to expect," he said. "The stadium should be packed on Sunday, and the atmosphere will be intimidating.

"It's good to have Henry in the squad and in the team. We know it will be a tough challenge, but we're looking forward to it."

Cheetahs: Henry Immelman, Michael Annies, Carel-Jan Coetzee, Zander du Plessis, Prince Nkabinde, Tiaan Swanepoel, Faf de Klerk, Carl Els, Simon Miller, Neels Volschenk (captain), Victor Sekekete, Carl Wegner, Frankie Dos Reis, Louis van der Westhuizen, Matome Manyama.

Replacements: Jaundre Schoeman, Tebogo Nkosi, Ben Pitout, Aidon Davis, Siya Ningiza, Erich Visser, Cohen Jasper, Marco Jansen van Vuren.

READ MORE: 10Bet Lions ready to hush the La Rochelle crowd