Cheetahs coach Hawies Fourie says former Springbok
Jacques Potgieter's versatility makes him an attractive option as a new signing.
Afrikaans newspaper Rapport reported over the weekend that Potgieter was eyeing a return to professional rugby at the Cheetahs.
He is a versatile player equally adept at flank and lock.
"That's why we're looking at him, because he can play in both those positions," Fourie told Netwerk24.
The Cheetahs mentor confirmed that Potgieter will arrive in Bloemfontein in Friday for a series of medical and fitness tests before a decision on a possible contract will be made.
Potgieter, who played three Tests for the Springboks in 2012, has played no first class rugby since returning to South Africa from French club Toulon in early 2019.
He joined Pretoria club Naka Bulle in the hope of catching the eyes of the Bulls selectors but that never materialised.
Potgieter formerly played for the Kings (2009-2011), had two stints at the Bulls (2011-2013 and 2016-2017), while he also played for the Waratahs in Australia (2014-2015) and Munakata Sanix Blues in Japan (2014-2018).
The Cheetahs have lost several frontline players in recent times but are hoping for a boost through inclusion in the Intercontinental Shield competition in Europe.
The event, slated to start in October, will likely consist of teams from Spain, Germany and Russia.
Playing in the event would a big financial carrot for the Cheetahs because it would allow them to qualify for the European Challenge Cup - the continent's second-tier club competition just below the European Champions Cup.
The Cheetahs, who have participated in the PRO14 since 2017, recently lost their status in that competition after SA Rugby indicated that the Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Stormers would be the country's participants in an expanded PRO16 Rainbow Cup.
The Cheetahs will know on 28 February whether their application to compete in the Intercontinental Shield has been approved.
- Compiled by Sport24 staff