# Toyota Cheetahs EPCR Challenge Cup campaign

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/toyota-cheetahs-epcr-challenge-cup-campaign
> Updated: 2026-10-18T14:04:23.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

The Toyota Cheetahs began their EPCR Challenge Cup campaign with an away match against the French side Aviron Bayonnais at Stade Jean Dauger. The squad featured the return of Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk and the debut of No 8 Carl Els.

In their opening round, the Cheetahs suffered a narrow defeat. Despite early attacking intent from Michael Annies and scoring contributions from Tiaan Swanepoel, a late try by Herschel Jantjies secured the victory for the opposition. Although the Cheetahs attempted a second-half comeback with tries from Carel-Jan Coetzee and Louis van der Westhuizen, they were unable to overcome the opponent's momentum.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-18: Cheetahs narrowly lose EPCR Challenge Cup opener

The Cheetahs lost their EPCR Challenge Cup opener following a late try by Herschel Jantjies, narrowly missing out on a victory despite strong early play and second-half efforts.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cheetahs-narrowly-lose-epcr-challenge-cup-opener

### 2026-10-16: Toyota Cheetahs prepare for EPCR Challenge Cup opener against Aviron Bayonnais

The Toyota Cheetahs face Aviron Bayonnais in their EPCR Challenge Cup opener in France, featuring the return of scrumhalf Faf de Klerk to the starting lineup.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/toyota-cheetahs-prepare-for-epcr-challenge-cup-opener-against-aviron-bayonnais

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Cite as: Toyota Cheetahs EPCR Challenge Cup campaign. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/toyota-cheetahs-epcr-challenge-cup-campaign