Springbok legend Frans Steyn appointed new Cheetahs Director of Rugby

The Cheetahs have appointed Springbok legend Frans Steyn as their new Director of Rugby, it was confirmed on Sunday. 

Havinly only recently retired from the game - his last match for the Cheetahs came in March - the 36-year-old two-time World Cup winner will start in his new role from 1 November. 

According to a Cheetahs statement, Steyn will be responsible for "actively promoting Cheetah rugby in our schools and developing a junior pipeline for our future Cheetah players. He will oversee rugby operations, contributing to the team’s strategy, player development, and the pursuit of excellence on and off the field." 

Steyn said he was thrilled to get going.

"I am excited to step into this new role. My initial focus will be to actively promote Cheetah rugby at school and junior level. I look forward to working closely with MJ Smith (COO) to elevate the rugby program and build on the proud history of the Toyota Cheetahs," he said.  

Steyn and his family already live in Bloemfontein.

Cheetahs CEO Ross van Reenen, meanwhile, was "delighted that Frans accepted the offer to remain to serve the Cheetahs."  

"Frans Steyn is an iconic figure in world rugby, and we are extremely fortunate to have him in our fold. His rugby expertise and passion for the game align perfectly with our vision. We believe he will help reinvent and re-establish the Cheetahs as a force to be reckoned with," he added.