The 23-year-old front-rower has reported for duty at the Griffons as they prepare to face the Simbas of Kenya on Saturday in Welkom.

Venter has made several appearances for the Cheetahs over the past year, but it lower in the pecking order.

Venter told OFM Sport that he is keen to play for the men in purple.

“I'm looking forward to some game time and I am enjoying the rugby here at the Griffons.

“The guys have a lot of passion and the is a great vibe in the camp and we are practicing hard.

“I'm just keen to get game time and play some rugby again. Hopefully this just makes me better as a player in future at the Cheetahs.”

The Cheetahs coach, Hawies Fourie, also confirmed that Venter is at the Griffons for some game time, while he feels that Wilmar Arnoldi in his turn will enjoy his loan spell at the Stormers.

“It just makes sense to loan some of the players out. All of our hookers are fit and healthy.

“Janus Venter is at the Griffons, so he will play for them on the weekend against the Simbas.

“We try and give game time to as many players as possible and I think that Wilmar will appreciate the opportunity at the Stormers as well.”

Saturday’s game in Welkom kicks off at 15:00. Meanwhile, the defending champions, the Leopards will host the Boland Cavaliers at Olën Park in Potchefstroom.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport