The Cheetahs are last on the ladder but have emerged as competition spoilers following upset wins over the defending champions, the Canterbury Crusaders, and the early Super 14 leaders, the Durban Sharks.

Waugh, who will surpass Chris Whitaker as the most-capped Waratah by playing his 108th match, said NSW will be careful not to believe the hype surrounding the Cheetahs.

''You can't be overawed by the pressure we are under now and, I guess, the environment we will be under at Bloemfontein,'' Waugh said.

''You have to go out there and have a belief that you are better than the opposition you are playing.''

The Waratahs, seventh on the ladder with 28 points, must win all three games in South Africa and preferably with bonus points if they are to make the semi-finals.

Waugh is not discounting the ability of the Cheetahs.

''The way they give their fast wingers space is by unstructured play, by trying to pin you down in your own half or counter-attack when we kick poor,'' Waugh said.

Waugh has particular respect for Cheetahs captain, No8 Juan Smith.

''When he plays well, they play well. That is why it is important we nullify him.''

Waugh is excited about a backline reconfigured to spark attack and including Brett Sheehan at No9, Daniel Halangahu at 10, Kurtley Beale at 12, Timana Tahu 13, Peter Playford and Lote Tuqiri on the wings and Lachie Turner at 15.

During the lineout drills, he looked at the back line as it ran various patterns of play.

''I was just having a look. And it looks pretty good,'' Waugh said.

The mood throughout the Waratahs was vibrant, in a fast and intense session.

Waugh said passing Whitaker's 107 caps will be ''a huge honour'', but honours will also be celebrated by four other Waratahs.

Second-rower Dean Mumm will play his 50th game for NSW and prop Benn Robinson, second-rower Will Caldwell and forward Luke Doherty will play their 50th Super games.