Steyn, who shared the field with De Klerk during their time in the Springbok setup, including the triumphant 2019 Rugby World Cup campaign in Japan, is clearly excited about what the seasoned scrumhalf will bring to Bloemfontein. While the union officially confirmed the deal on 12 April, De Klerk had in fact already put pen to paper back in February.

The 34-year-old remains in Japan for now, turning out for the Canon Eagles in the country’s Top League until the end of the season. But his return to South Africa already feels personal - with strong family ties to the region and his youngest daughter born in Bloemfontein last year, the move carries added meaning.

Faf de Klerk training with the Springboks in Bloemfontein. Photo: Morgan Piek

Interestingly, it was De Klerk himself who initiated the conversation about a switch to the Cheetahs. Steyn and the union’s wider network of role players and sponsors then worked behind the scenes to make it a reality.

Steyn told OFM Sport that he believes the Bok scrumhalf will have a similar impact to that of Ruan Pienaar when he joined the Cheetahs in 2019 - not just in terms of on-field control, but in lifting standards across the board.

“From a playing point of view, he really drives standards, and the experience he brings back into the squad is massive,” said Steyn.

“Just having a guy like that in Bloemfontein - at the stadium and around our sponsors - adds huge value, not only to the team, but to the Cheetahs brand as a whole.”

Steyn added that De Klerk’s arrival strengthens an already competitive squad. With several players hitting form at the right time, the team is building momentum - but the primary focus remains clear: secure a semi-final spot in the SA Cup and qualify for the Currie Cup Premier Division.

“I’m looking forward to it because he’s still at a stage where he can really speed up a game when needed, and with his experience, he also knows exactly when to slow things down,” Steyn added.

Chucky van der Westhuizen. Photo: Morgan Piek

“With him coming in, and guys like Marco Jansen van Vuren, Jaco van der Walt, Zander du Plessis (injured at the moment) and Jooste Nell all playing well, we’ve got great depth.

“Now it’s about getting into the Currie Cup, and I’m excited about what lies ahead.”

De Klerk will report for duty at the Cheetahs in June.

Meanwhile, regular captain Chucky van der Westhuizen returns this week to lead the side in a crucial clash against the Valke at Barnard Stadium in Kempton Park on Saturday.

Van der Westhuizen missed the past few weeks - particularly away fixtures - following the birth of his second son. In his absence, Neels Volschenk stepped up impressively, leading the team with composure, but is now set for a well-earned rest.

Back in the fold, Van der Westhuizen was quick to credit his wife, Zanria, for holding things together at home.

“Yeah, it’s awesome to be back. I think I missed a good trip - that SWD game was quite an exciting one,” he said.

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“It’s not nice watching it from the TV - it’s very stressful. But no, it’s really good to be back.

“My wife has been a true champion - she lets me sleep in a bit and handles baby duty at night - so I’m feeling good.”

Saturday’s encounter between the Valke and the Cheetahs at Barnard Stadium kicks off at 15:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvdw