Lourens has been hugely instrumental in the Shimlas success this season which has seen them qualify for a home semi-final against Tuks next week.

The attacking backline marshal also captained the team on Monday evening against the Madibaz in Gqeberha and has attracted the attention of other unions.

Lourens told OFM Sport that it’s a childhood dream come true and to learn from the seasoned campaigners such as Ruan Pienaar and Frans Steyn would be the ultimate, but for now the focus is still on winning the Varsity Cup.

“Things have happened quite quickly,” said the 24-year-old pivot who previously also played for the Maties.

“I'm very stoked to get the opportunity to join the Cheetahs from May. Like I've previously said, it's been the childhood dream from the start. There is nothing I would like to do more than play professional rugby.

“Hopefully I can work my way into the playing line-up.

“As you've said there are a lot of quality players around and there is a lot of experience. Not only at 10, but all over the show.

“It's always good to learn about rugby and I want to play and coach for as long as I can. The more I can learn the better, and what a place to do it with all of that experience around.

“So, I'm very happy to join them. But my focus will turn to the Cheetahs as soon as the Varsity Cup ends. We really want to win this Varsity Cup and the Tuesday after the possible final I will start focusing on that.”

Two more players from the Shimlas will be linking up with the Cheetahs, but they will still play in the Varsity Cup next year. While everything is set for these two to sign dual-contracts, the Cheetahs still require signatures on the dotted line.

The Shimlas and Tuks will go head-to-head on Monday night at Shimla Park in the semi-finals of the Varsity Cup. Kick-off for this game is at 19:00.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport