The FNB Ikey Tigers will be out to add another title to their collection when they travel to Grahamstown to do battle at the USSA tournament next week.
The reigning FNB Varsity Cup presented by Steinhoff International champions are on a mid-season break from the WP Super League where they lie in first place on the log, and are sure to be eager to take the field once again.
However, coach Kevin Musikanth pointed out that while they have enjoyed a 'well-earned break from the field' the team are keen to start up again with the upcoming USSA tournament.
He also explained that the players in Cape Town 'have been on their mid season gym program at the High Performance Centre' as well, and are excited to put their hard work into practice.
Singling out the tournament itself Musikanth said: "The USSA is more a development tour for us in that future talent is given a chance to compete against other Varsity Cup teams."
He said that the tournament will reveal 'whether the guys are ready to make the step up.'
As a result, the tournament will see a lot of new faces making their appearance, mixed in with a host of regular Varsity Cup campaigners to ensure that the Tigers boast a competitive side.
He explained that it will be a good opportunity to gel ahead of the next phase of the league season.
"The other factor is that the tournament gives us an opportunity to be able to get in some game time as two months off is a lot for a team," said Musikanth.
The Ikeys coach is confident that his players will be going all-out to make an impression in Grahamstown.
"Whenever UCT plays representative rugby it is important for us to put on an exciting, good show.
"We now have to also realize that there is a responsibility that comes with being Varsity Cup champions that means that teams will not take Ikeys lightly so we need to be up and ready for those challenges," he finished off.
By Megan Kinnaird
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