Done deal.

Former Ulster scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar will be back in the PRO14 next season – but not with the Irish province.

Pienaar was recently granted an early release from his contract with Montpellier, and has been actively searching for a new club to continue his player career.

A return to Ulster was mooted, but instead he has signed for another one of his former clubs, in South African franchise the Cheetahs. The former Springbok has signed a two-year deal to return to his native country.

“The skilful player represented the Springboks in 88 test matches. Ruan’s experience in Guinness PRO14 will be valuable for the Toyota Cheetah as he represented the Irish side from Belfast in 141 matches between 2010 and 2017.” a club statement read.

Pienaar now looks set return to Kingspan next season – but this time as opposition for his former club.