CAPE TOWN - Zimbabwe Sevens rugby side, the Cheetahs, suffered a 5-15 loss at the hands of Western Province in their first game of the Assupol International tournament in Stellenbosch, on Friday afternoon.

Taking an early 5-0 leas through a Manasah Sita unconverted try, Zimbabwe surrendered the lead just before half time and went into the break with both sides tied 5-5.

However, the host province took control of proceedings in the second stanza with two unanswered tries that, however, they failed to convert.

The Cheetahs next take on South Africa Sevens side, the Blitzbokke, in their next game.

Having won their first game 29-0 over Western Province, Blitzbokke are aiming to end the day unbeaten while Zimbabwe would at least want to get a win on Day One of the competition.

Coached by Daniel Hondo, the Cheethas are the only side in Pool A who are yet to win.