This was due to the team being suspended from the league last year, and because the Covid-19 pandemic bringing an early halt to the season this year.

Hugo won the Currie Cup with the Cheetahs and was one of the leading players during the team's inaugural PRO14 season.

Recently his lock partner at the Free State and in Japan, Carl Wegner, also re-joined the Cheetahs.

Hugo told OFM Sport that he looks forward to his return and he can’t wait to play with Wegner again.

“I am really looking forward to coming back to the Cheetahs. I had some really fond memories while I was there in Bloemfontein.

“I am excited to be joining up with the team again and playing in the PRO14.

“It’s going to be nice to play with Carl. We formed a close bond over the years. When we were playing in Japan we actually spoke about it being nice if we were able to play together again in South Africa, and now there is another chance for us.

“It is also going to be nice to work with Hawies Fourie, Corniel van Zyl and the rest of the guys.

“Really looking forward to this new challenge and chapter in my life. I’m excited to get going and hopefully, we can get to playing rugby again, sooner rather than later.”

Hugo will report for duty at the Cheetahs on 1 July.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport