The soon to be dad joins the Central franchise after previously having played his rugby for the Bulls, Sharks and Kubota Spears in Japan.

His arrival spells good news for the much-depleted second-row depart after the mass player exodus saw a total of six locks signing for other teams.

Speaking to OFM Sport, Drotse, said coming to Bloemfontein is a good opportunity.

“I'm really looking forward to the stay in Bloemfontein and excited to get going with the team.

“With everything that is going on contracts are bit difficult to come by. You need that opportunity to come your way.

“I'm thankful to the Cheetahs for giving me this opportunity to go out there play again and prove myself.

“For me, it is a good move to come to the Cheetahs and hopefully I will be able to get a lot of game time.

“I'm looking forward to the challenge, meeting everyone here, and the season that lies ahead

“Whatever lies ahead we are not sure about yet, but looking forward to the unknown as well.”

A second lock should be reporting for duty at the Cheetahs in the not too distant further. Rynier Bernardo is set for a return to the team after a stint in Japan. Bernardo played for the Cheetahs during their debut season in the Guinness PRO14.

Meanwhile, the former Springbok flank, Jacques Potgieter, has also been linked with a move to the Cheetahs. Potgieter is in Bloemfontein and it’s a matter of medical and fitness tests before his contract at the team is finalised.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport