Until recently, Badenhorst was out of contract until he got a call from Jimmy Stonehouse to join the Nelspruit-based outfit.

The son of the legendary Free State winger, Chris Badenhorst, told OFM Sport that they are looking forward to playing for the first time in more than a year.

“We are really excited about rugby that is going to be back this weekend.

“Nobody realised we missed rugby in the country as much as we did. We only realised it when we didn’t have it anymore.

“It is very exciting times for everyone that will be playing, especially here at the Pumas. This weekend’s game against the Cheetahs will be a big challenge.

“They are the Currie Cup champions, and they have players like Ruan Pienaar and Frans Steyn there.

“We have been working hard and look forward to what lies ahead.

“For me, it will be nice to be going back home and to play against my old teammates.”

Saturday’s match between the Cheetahs and the Pumas at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 16:30.

Both the Pumas and Cheetahs are expected to be announcing their respective teams on Thursday afternoon.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport