Meyer will return to the Cheetahs following the Sharks outbound tour, while Pienaar will stay at the Sharks a bit longer.

Meyer told OFM Sport that he looks forward to the stint which will benefit the Cheetahs.

“It's short stint and being able to go and play in those conditions will be a great experience.

“Especially if we need to head back there later if the year if everything is confirmed.

“For the Cheetahs it will obviously help to have played more rugby.

“More game time is always good for us, so I'm grateful for the opportunity and looking forward to it.”

Pienaar in his turn said he is looking forward to a final tour of Ireland, but Bloemfontein and the Toyota Cheetahs will remain his home. This is where he wants to wind up his career over the next two seasons.

In return to Sharks will make some of their players available for the Cheetahs in upcoming international and domestic tournaments.

The new Cheetahs signing from the Griquas, Gideon van der Merwe, in his turn is expected to help out at the Lions before his links up with his new team in Bloemfontein.

The Cheetahs are expected to play in the European Challenge Cup later in the year and according to the coach, Hawies Fourie, their first two fixtures will be against Toulon and the Dragons.

The Cheetahs are planning to possibility bring in two Eastern European team for a series of matches in Bloemfontein as preparation before a possible return to Europe.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport