Makazole Mapimpi has confirmed he will be joining up with the Sharks following next weekend’s Pro14 clash between the Cheetahs and Kings in Bloemfontein.

The Sharks announced Mapimpi’s signing in early November, but there were whispers out of Bloemfontein in the following weeks that he might be remaining with the Cheetahs after all.

However, the Sharks recently confirmed to SARugbymag.co.za that Mapimpi has a binding contractwith the Durban-based side and is set to report for duty on 23 January.

The 27-year-old also confirmed that to local newspaper Volksblad.

‘I’m excited to play Super Rugby again,’ he said. ‘I want to measure myself against Australian and New Zealand teams.’

Photo: Johan Pretorius/Gallo Images