The Cheetahs have enjoyed a break in the competition following their narrow defeat to Munster on 4 November, however, this breather in the tournament is due to the international break.

The exciting former North-West University Pukke and Leopards fullback, Tapiwe Mafura, has reported for duty at the team. Mafura has signed a two-year contract with the Cheetahs. His contracting will give the Cheetahs outside backs department some serious punch with the likes of Rabz Maxwane, Malcolm Jaer and Rhyno Smith already having played in the Pro14. 

Smith, who is also a former Pukke and Leopards fullback, linked up with the Cheetahs on a loan deal from the Sharks, but he may opt to sign a full-time contract in January.

The good news does not end there for the Cheetahs. The 28-year-old Springbok winger, Jamba Ulengo, reports for duty at the Cheetahs as well. The flyer, who has been at the Bulls since 2014, was recently omitted from their 2019 Super Rugby squad.

Ulengo, who was born in Vryburg, schooled at Hoërskool Jim Fouché and played 18 Varsity Cup matches for the University of the Free State Shimlas, has reported at the Cheetahs without a contract, but seeking an opportunity to prove his worth.

Apart from having represented the Springboks Sevens team in 13 HSBC World Series tournaments, he also has a Springbok cap to his name after making his fifteen-man debut on 26 November 2016 against Wales at the Millennium Stadium. He also represented the Springboks against the Barbarians during that particular tour, however, the friendly international does not count as a Test match.

At this stage, it is unlikely that Ulengo will feature for the Cheetahs against Benetton Rugby next week. Should he manage to secure a contract at the team it will be a very good signing by Franco Smith indeed and made the Cheetahs outside backs department arguably the best in the Pro14.

The Cheetahs match against Benetton Rugby at the Toyota Stadium on 24 November kicks off at 14:30.

Watch highlights of Ulengo's career thus far.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport