This comes as the Springbok scrumhalf, Ruan Pienaar, sustained a serious knee injury during the 15th minute of the Cheetahs 19-17 over the Bulls on Friday evening in round two of Super Rugby Unlocked.

The exact extent of Pienaar’s injury is not known yet but it is believed his MCL was injured during an illegal cleanout by Marco van Staden.

It is believed that Pienaar may be able to play again before the end of the year, and this is something that the Cheetahs will welcome.

Cheetahs coach, Hawies Fourie, confirmed that Pokomela takes over the leadership role.

“Unfortunately injuries are a part of the game and it was really bad to see both Ruan Pienaar and Gio Aplon having to be taken off the field on the medical cart so early in the game.

“We hope that the injury is not as bad as we think it may be, but it still remains a big setback for us.

“Junior Pokomela will take over the captaincy of the team. He was the vice-captain of the team under Ruan, so Junior will lead the team going forward.”

On Saturday the Cheetahs play in their first away game when they tackle the Lions at Ellis Park.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport