The teams are in close proximity to each other, and both coaches see the value in sharing ideas with one another.

On Wednesday, Donald was presented a jacket by the Cheetahs, and during the short ceremony, the Fourie said that there are a lot of benefits to working together.

“Cricket and rugby are two different sports, but coaching is something that will always have the same principles in both codes.

“We’ve had a few discussions, and for me it is always interesting to find out how other sports are doing their things, what their values and cultures are, and how they go about it.

“The two of us had some discussions over a beer or two and we are learning from each other. It is great to have a discussion with a legend such as Allan about those things.”

Donald, who represented South Africa in cricket but always dreamt about playing rugby for the Springboks, said that it is very important for the franchises to have a tight bond.

“For me, it was always important to go and discover other things. As a coach, you are looking to reinvent yourself all the time. I spent time with Stormers, I spent time with Naka Drotské, I spent time with Rassie Erasmus, and I sat in on some of the meetings in this changeroom, just listening to their philosophy and their ways of coaching. I think that it is very important.

“I did a lot of research with the NFL (National Football League in the USA), in terms of how they do things with coaching. When I was in 

America in 2015 I spent time with the New York Jets, just on a daily visit, and learnt other things that might affect the game that you play and new methods. That is what the players want.

“That’s why I want to join hands with Hawies. You know, infiltrate his camp a little bit and see how he does things. We are looking to set something up when the season kicks off for the two and have a bit of fun as two franchises.

“It is very important. It has always been a close relationship between the Knights and the Cheetahs, and I can’t see why that shouldn’t carry on.”

As things stand, both the Cheetahs and Knights, are waiting for clarity on when they can continue their team training.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport