This is as the Cheetahs will begin with their preseason for the Franchise Cup which is expected to get underway in February.

Following the departure of no less than six locks, it comes as good news for the central franchise.

The Cheetahs coach told OFM Sport that the Covid-19 pandemic was a bit of a blessing in disguise for the team with regards to contracting certain players.

“Some of the guys that I approached came back to South Africa from Japan because of Covid-19, and they haven’t been contracted yet.

“We were a bit lucky in that department, and to get Rynier Bernardo and Jean Droste at lock is a big relief. This is because we lost quality players in that position.

“Both will join on Wednesday next week for the start of the preseason for the Franchise Cup. I'm delighted to have both of them in our setup.”

Meanwhile, the former Junior Springbok loosehead prop, Alulutho Tshakweni, will also report for duty at the Cheetahs.

All three players are at the Cheetahs on a short-term contract until the end of October. There is a possibility that their respective contracts may be extended.

The former Springbok loose-forward, Jacques Potgieter, will undergo his fitness and medical tests on Friday, and if he passed, he too will be offered a contract until the end of October.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport