27 October 2026
The Toyota Cheetahs thanked the players leaving the team for their contribution to Free State Rugby and wish them success in the next chapter of their lives and rugby careers.
Among those departing is veteran tighthead prop Aranos Coetzee, who has decided to retire from professional rugby. Coetzee reached the remarkable milestone of 150 matches for the Toyota Cheetahs earlier this year and will end his career with 169 appearances for the team.
Coetzee has been a dependable front-row presence, earning respect for his scrummaging ability and experience.
Aranos also enjoyed a distinguished international career representing the country of birth, Namibia. He made his Test debut for Namibia in 2015 and represented the Welwitschias at three Rugby World Cups: England in 2015, Japan in 2019, and France in 2023.
The Toyota Cheetahs thanked Aranos for his many years of service and dedication to the team. Everyone at Free State Rugby wishes him and his family all the best as he begins this new chapter beyond professional rugby.
Curtly Ambrose Thomas, Litha Nkula and Christiaan van der Westhuizen will also leave the Toyota Cheetahs at the end of the month, following the conclusion of their contracts. The team thanks all three players for their efforts and professionalism during their time in Bloemfontein. Free State Rugby said that they appreciate their contributions and wish them every success in their future endeavours.
Jandrè “Smiley” Nel will be joining the Airlink Pumas as he takes the next step in his rugby career. The Toyota Cheetahs are pleased to have played a role in his development and to support this opportunity for him to grow further as a player. The Toyota Cheetahs believe in creating opportunities for players to develop and progress in their careers, and the team wishes Smiley every success as he embarks on this new chapter.
Both Christiaan van der Westhuizen and Jandrè Nel came through the Toyota Academy.