The player has been linked with a move to the Sharks in order to play in the 2018 Super Rugby. Mapimpi impressed earlier this year while playing for the Southern Kings, and during that time he scored 11 tries for a share of third with James Lowe in the Super Rugby try-scoring charts.

The player made a move to the Cheetahs in order to play Currie Cup rugby for the then defending champions. During the Cheetahs’ campaign, he crossed the white-wash on six occasions for a share of second place in the try-scoring charts, along with Ederies Arendse (Tafel Lager Griquas) and Sibusiso Nkosi (Sharks).

Even in the Pro14, the player has been seemingly unstoppable and it also feels strange when his name does not appear on the score sheet after a match.

The Cheetahs remain mum on his future at the team and as it stands, it appears that the derby against the Kings on 20 January in Bloemfontein will be his last match for the team. However, a loophole has been found, which could see the player remaining in the City of Roses.

It is, however, up to the player to decide whether or not he is happy at the team. According to numerous sources, he is happy and also feels that the Cheetahs’ famous brand of running rugby suites his game. 

Furthermore, the Cheetahs will have to generate extra income to cover his salary, but this is something that hasn’t given them sleepless nights.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport