Cheetahs lose one to the Sharks, but reveal three new signings

TRANSFER NEWS: The Free State Cheetahs confirmed the signing of three new players, on the same day that it was revealed one of their stars is heading to the Sharks.

The Cheetahs announced the signature of flyhalf Abner van Reenen, with the Sharks confirming the signing of Cheetahs utility back Siyabonga Masuku.

The Cheetahs also revealed that scrumhalf Reagan Oranje will join the Cheetahs in July.

Vernon Paulo, a hooker, is expected in Bloemfontein in November this year.

Vernon Paulo

Vernon Paulo has signed a two-year contract with the Cheetahs. The Varsity Cup-winning North West University Eagles hooker has had a stellar start to the campaign and has picked up the Player That Rocks Award after beating the University of Cape Town Ikeys in a thrilling final at the Fanie du Toit Sports grounds in Potchefstroom. Paulo scored two tries in that game.

Abner van Reenen

Abner van Reenen previously played for Western Province and the Stormers before he went to play in Italy for the Rovigo Delta, coached by Allister Coetzee.

The 24-year-old is the product of Paarl Boys High and former Junior Springbok. He was a highly rated young talent who came through the Western Province youth time.

Reagan Oranje

Reagan Oranje is the product of Queen’s College Boy’s High and went to the University of Pretoria to further his studies.

Oranje was named in the Griquas side for the 2021 Currie Cup Premier Division. He had previously been named in the Griquas in Round 1 of the 2021 Currie Cup Premier against the Sharks.

* Meanwhile, Masuku, a cool-headed and accurate utility back and a solid goal-kicker, is departing the Cheetahs at the end of the Currie Cup season.

Although Masuku has mostly played at flyhalf, he initially played inside centre for the Cheetahs in eight matches in the 2021 Currie Cup competition.

He had his first Currie Cup game for the Cheetahs against the Pumas in Bloemfontein, in July 2021.

Stand a chance to win a Sharks New Era cap if you can guess this new signing ‼️#FearTheFin #NewSigningSealed pic.twitter.com/BnFvdRA5JN

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 15, 2023

Flyhalf firepower incoming 🔥 Welcome to the team! #FearTheFin #BackOnTheDottedLine pic.twitter.com/b7lbgsKPll

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) May 15, 2023