This was due to several players opting to exercise a clause in their contracts that would allow them to leave due to the non-participation in the PRO14.

Thus far, four new players have been signed and the coach, Hawies Fourie, told OFM Sport that they need to settle their squad.

“We are looking to get going again after our three-week break.

“The players had a bit of running work to do over the last week or so.

“We will start on Wednesday morning. The new players joining us are Alulutho Tshakweni and Schalk Ferreira, who are both loosehead props from the Kings, while Jean Droste and Rynier Bernardo are both locks.

“We are looking forward to them joining the team and getting a bit of stability. November to January wasn't easy with players coming and going, so we really look forward to settling as a team and start building again, building a new culture and a way forward.

“That will all start on Wednesday.”

The Cheetahs begin with their preseason for the Franchise Cup on Wednesday. SA Rugby is yet to confirm the details of the planned tournament.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport