The Cheetahs have included seven Super 14 debutants in their match day 22 for their opening game of the season against defending champions the Bulls on Friday.

Coach Naka Drotske has named Riaan Viljoen, Lionel Mapoe and Ashley Johnson in the starting XV, while Ryno Barnes, Coenie Oosthuizen, Walti Vermeulen and Sias Ebersohn are among the replacements.

The home side, who finished bottom of the table last year after just two wins all season, will be desperate to improve on their performances in the southern hemisphere's premier club competition, especially after they again proved to be one of South Africa's best teams by reaching the domestic Currie Cup final in October.

Team: Riaan Viljoen; Lionel Mapoe, Corne Uys, Meyer Bosman, Jongi Nokwe; Naas Olivier, Tewis de Bruyn; Ashley Johnson, Juan Smith (captain), Heinrich Brussow, David de Villiers, Nico Breedt, WP Nel, Adriaan Strauss, Wian du Preez.

Replacements: Ryno Barnes, Coenie Oosthuizen, Walti Vermeulen, Frans Viljoen, Sarel Pretorius, Sias Ebersohn, Danwel Demas.