Well, this is at least for the time being.

The winger who is destined to become a Springbok sooner, rather than later, will be heading to Durban in KwaZulu-Natal to link up with the Sharks for the 2018 Super Rugby.

It was reported that the player could be staying at the Cheetahs, however, it is a done deal that he will be playing for his third franchise in the space of less than a year.

It is somehow fitting that the leading try scorer in the Pro14 will be making his final appearance for the Cheetahs, against the very same team which he left to make the move to Bloemfontein.

The player will certainly be missed in the City of Roses, however, the Cheetahs are confident that with Craig Barry on loan from Western Province and with the likes of Luther Obi and Malcolm Jaer to return from injury, they will be able to fill Mapimpi’s boots.

The Cheetahs coach, Rory Duncan, confirmed that Saturday will be the players’ last game, but hinted that it may not be farewell for good.

“Certainly, for now, this will be his last game for the Cheetahs.

“We are obviously hoping that someday he will return, but for now this will be his last game, certainly in the immediate future.

“I wouldn’t say there is no chance, but at this moment in time he does have a commitment towards the Sharks and he will be going to fulfil that.”

Duncan added that while Barry will be with the Cheetahs until May before heading back to the Cape, he is the exact kind of player they are looking to contract.

“A guy like Craig Barry has shown a lot of value since he has been here. He is the type of player we would like to keep long-term, obviously, he is on loan from Western Province.

“Those kinds of conversations will continue and we’ll obviously see how things pan out in the future.”

The Cheetahs tackle the Southern Kings on Saturday afternoon in Bloemfontein, with kick off at the Toyota Stadium at 17:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport