Westraadt played for the Griquas from 2009 to 2014 before joining the Pumas until the end of last year.

The 35-year-old is contracted until next year and comes in as a direct replacement for Alandré van Rooyen who in turn joined the London Irish last week. Van Rooyen played his last game for the Peacock Blues during their win against the Pumas in Kimberley.

Westraadt told OFM Sport that he is excited to be back were it all started for him as a professional and he sense something very special with the team that Pieter Bergh has assembled.

“I'm very excited to join the Griquas and I have been in training for two days now. I must say that they really helped me out and made me feel at home straight away.

“It's a great bunch of guys and a nice coaching staff. I've worked with coach Pieter Bergh already during my last stint here in Kimberley.

“He is an awesome coach he is growing every year. Look at the results her got in the Varsity Cup. He is just becoming better and better every season with every team he is with, so I am very excited to be with is outfit here.

“I see this team going a long way. It's a good bunch of guys with a good camaraderie and a good vibe.

“I'm very excited to go forward from here and have a good season or two with the team. I feel that this team can definitely go all the way this year.”

The fiery hooker also confirmed that we was in negotiations to return to the Pumas in Nelspruit, but that fell flat.

Westraadt has not been included in the Griquas team to face the Griffons in Welkom on Thursday afternoon is a practice game.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport