The Cheetahs have announced the signings of prop duo Hencus van Wyk and Khutha Mchunu on short-term deals.
Mchunu joins the Cheetahs on a one-year deal from the Sharks, where he had limited game time, playing behind the likes of Thomas du Toit and John-Hubert Meyer.
The 23-year-old, who was schooled at Glenwood High, tips the scales at 117kg and progressed through the Sharks’ youth structures.
‘For me, coming here to Bloemfontein is all about opportunity and just trying to get myself out on to the pitch to contribute to the Cheetahs’ culture and the way they play,’ Mchunu said.
‘The guys are playing some really good rugby at the moment, so I am just looking to contribute to the team in whatever way I can, be it on or off the field. I’m just looking forward to playing my part here at the Cheetahs.
‘Sometimes we look too far ahead and focus on what’s to come, but for me regarding where the Cheetahs are going to play in the coming year or so, I’m not too worried about that. I’m just worried about making sure that I play week in, week out. That is the biggest thing for me now. If I can get that right, regardless of where we play, I’m happy.’
The 28-year-old Van Wyk has played for the Vodacom Bulls, Lions, Munakata Sanix Blues and most recently for the Sunwolves in the 2020 Super Rugby season.
He has a short-term contract, for now, which expires at the end of January 2021.
The front rower, who weighs in at 119kg, says that he looks forward to wearing the white-and-orange jersey, but knows that he will have to prove himself to the team which boasts with a rich history of fine props.
‘It’s a great privilege and honour to be in Bloemfontein with the Cheetahs for the next couple of months. It is very sad for them to have been kicked out of the PRO14 the way they have. I reckon that it was premature, but because the Cheetahs haven’t really shown yet what they are capable of.
‘I’ve been around South Africa, so it’s a new challenge and I’m really looking forward to running out on to the park with the boys.’
Photo: Supplied
