The 27-year-old will be joining the Cheetahs as cover for the injured Alulutho Tshakweni and Mox Mxoli as they begin with their preparations next week for the upcoming European Challenge Cup.

The departure of Cameron Dawson also puts further straight on the loosehead department at the Central franchise.

Majola has previously played for the Southern Kings and the Sharks and is currently plying his trade at the Seattle Seawolves in the USA.

The former Junior Springbok told OFM Sport that he is eager to head to Bloemfontein.

“I've had the pleasure of playing against the Cheetahs a few times and it's never easy coming up to Bloem, ”  said the loosehead.

“From my age group rugby years over at the Sharks and all the way to senior rugby, during SuperRugby playing at the Kings playing against the Cheetahs was always something quite tough.

“I've really been attracted to the brand of rugby that they play and the biggest thing that excites me now is that I get an opportunity to be on the other side of this.”

Majola added that he is excited by the prospect of possibly playing in the European Challenge Cup later in the year.

“I'm really thankful for the opportunity and I really just want to come through and contribute in any way that I can for the team and to the success of the organisation.

“We are entering new waters now by heading over to Europe and that in itself is exciting. What an opportunity and what a blessing. I really cannot wait to get out to Bloem and contribute in any way that I can to the success of the team.”

Meanwhile, the Maties winger, Siba Xamlashe, will also be joining the Cheetahs in December. The brother of the Griquas backline player, Sango, is currently finishing up his exams in Stellenbosch.

The Cheetahs open their campaign on 10 December against Section Paloise of France in Pau.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport