The 34-year-old Potgieter, who has previously played for the Bulls, Sharks and Kings, underwent a fitness and a medical test at the central franchise on Friday.

He has also played for teams such as the Waratahs, Kubota Spears and Barbarians in the past.

Had Potgieter passed his tests he would have been offered a contract at the Cheetahs until the end of October.

The coach, Hawies Fourie, did state that he was not willing to take a chance with any new players coming in and he emphasised the importance of players being able to meet the standard.

Fourie said that Potgieter didn’t quite meet the benchmark regarding his fitness and a final decision has not been made, while also highlighting that a deal is not off the table.

“Jacques Potgieter’s fitness wasn’t up to standard and we will discuss his situation on Tuesday in the coaches' meeting.

“There we will make a decision and communicate it to him on Wednesday.

“At the moment he won’t be joining us immediately.

The four players contracted last week, Jean Droste, Rynier Bernardo, Alulutho Tshakweni and Schalk Ferreira will, however, report for duty this week.

On Wednesday morning, the Cheetahs will assemble to get their Franchise Cup preseason underway.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport