This comes after the Springbok and the Cheetahs agreed to a loan deal that will see him playing for the Sharks in the opening stages of the upcoming United Rugby Championship in Europe.

The Sharks reserves in the halfback department have taken a knock due to injuries and national obligations. This sees the two halfbacks, Pienaar and Tian Meyer, heading to Durban to represent the team who will be playing in a second straight Currie Cup final on Saturday.

The 37-year-old Pienaar told OFM Sport that he looks forward to returning to the Sharks, but he remains a Cheetah.

“I'm heading to the Sharks for a short-term deal because they've had a few injury setbacks and they have a lot of players touring with the Springboks and won't be available quite some time.

“I'm grateful for the opportunity to go back to my old province. I never thought I will get the chance to play for them again but looking forward to the opportunity to play again.

“At my age and the stage I am at in my career, I've got to try and play as much as possible. This gives me the opportunity to do that and at a high level as well, so I'm excited about that.

“It's also a great deal to exchange players with the Sharks and give some of their youngsters that don't get a lot of game time to hopefully join us. Getting experience and game time is vital for any player.

“I'm excited about the challenge but I still remain a Cheetah player and I'll be returning whenever that term with the Sharks is over.

“It is interesting times and this just gives me an opportunity to play a bit more rugby.”

Tian Meyer will also join Pienaar in his native Durban, but for a shorter stay.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport