The Cheetahs have been boosted by the announcement that Springbok Willie le Roux extended his contract at the franchise for a further two years.

Sport24

French and Japanese clubs were hunting the services the fleet-footed back, but his recent inclusion as Springbok fullback made the decision to stay easier.

Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské confirmed the news to the Volksblad website.

“Willie has extended his contract as the Cheetahs for a further two years. He is an important player for us on attack and it’s great news that he decided to sign with us,” Drotské.

Le Roux, 23, will still represent Griquas in this year’s Currie Cup before switching to Free State for the 2014 and 2015 seasons.

He reportedly had to chose between the Cheetahs, Sharks and Western Province, and according to Volksblad’s sources, a massive contract of about R 2 million was offered by Free State.

The news will be welcomed by Cheetahs fans, who are already celebrating after they qualified for the Super Rugby playoffs for the first time by beating beat the Blues 34-13 on Saturday.