Over the last year, the former Junior Springbok has been one of the standout performers for the Cheetahs in both the Currie Cup and in the Guinness PRO14.

This news comes as a blow to the Cheetahs, however, the side from Bloemfontein is set to gain the services of the fiery Griquas flank, Sias Koen, and the fullback Anthony Volmink.

Nonkontwana has previously worked with Pote Human as his coach for Tuks in the Varsity Cup and at the Blue Bulls.

Nonkontwana told OFM Sport that he is looking forward to working with the man that helped shape his career as a young professional.

“I am set to join the Bulls at the beginning of November, so I will still be playing for the Free State Cheetahs in the Currie Cup.

“I am excited to head back and play under coach Pote, as we’ve got a good relationship. He was my coach for the couple of years that I was at the Bulls.

“The main thing for me is that I have some goals and ambitions as a rugby player.

“One of them is to play more Super Rugby games I think that it's time that I add some more games to my tally.

“I am excited about that challenge and I’m also excited to work under coach Pote again.”

There is still the possibility of Nonkontwana representing the Cheetahs in the upcoming Pro14 before he heads back to Pretoria.

It is also believed that the tighthead prop and Grey old boy, Neethling Fouché, will be making a return to Bloemfontein.

The unbeaten Free State host the Golden Lions on Friday evening in their next Currie Cup clash.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport