The new Toyota Cheetahs signing, Sisonke Vumazonke, is eager to get stuck in after making a welcome return to Bloemfontein.

The former SA Schools flanker and Grey College captain is one of a few new faces at the franchise and they look to build towards the future.

Vumazonke, who played Free State Craven Week, joined the Lions in Johannesburg straight after school and his career has been in limbo.

Vumazonke told OFM Sport that being contracted to the Cheetahs is a massive opportunity.

“I'm very, very excited to be back in the City of Roses, I mean this is where everything started for me,” said Vumazonke.

“I've been given a massive opportunity and I'm really looking forward to playing and getting some game time this side. The past few days I've settled in nice and I'm looking forward to it.

“I did enjoy my time in Joburg, but this is where I want to be and it's a massive opportunity that I need to grab hands full of.

“I’m just very excited.”

Vumazonke is a natural leader as well and one just needs to speak to the youngster to understand this.

Banie Britz - Gallo

Other confirmed signings at the Cheetahs are centre, Banie Britz from the Sharks, as well as the Springbok Sbu Nkosi, and the utility back Marco Janse van Vuren from the Bulls. The outside back, James Verity-Amm is also at the Cheetahs where he is on trial.

Gert Steyn, who was at school and played with Vumazonke and Britz, has also been training with the Cheetahs for quite some time, but it is understood that he is not yet contracted.

Meanwhile, the Cheetahs will face the Griquas in Jacobsdal on Saturday and the coach Izak van der Westhuizen will name this team on Thursday.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport