One of the favourite sons of Toyota Cheetahs rugby, Robert Ebersohn, will be making his return. The 32-year-old Ebersohn has signed a two-year deal with the Toyota Cheetahs after having played his rugby in France.
Ebersohn and his twin brother, Sias, were a part of the famous Grey College class of 2007 which produced Cheetahs stalwarts such as Lappies Labuschagne (captain of Japan) and Coenie Oosthuizen (Springboks).
Both joined the Toyota Cheetahs straight afternoon school in 2008.
Ebersohn played in over 100 matches for the Free State and the Cheetahs until he left in 2013, and at that point, he was also the captain.
Ebersohn has spent numerous years playing for both Montpellier and Castres in France.
In 2007, Ebersohn, represented the South Africa Schools team, and the following two years he played in ten "Tests" for the Junior Springbok.
Between 2008 and 2011 he played in 12 matches for the Springbok Sevens teams.
The Toyota Cheetahs head coach, Hawies Fourie, says he is delighted to have Ebersohn joining the team especially after the retirement of William Small-Smith.
“We are glad to be able to sign a quality player like Robert.
“He is still 32 years old, in good shape and playing really well in France, so we look forward to getting him back.”
The Toyota Cheetahs captain, Ruan Pienaar, in his turn believes that a player like Ebersohn is exactly what the team needs.
“Robert is truly one of the Free State legends who has had a wonderful career here at the Cheetahs.”
“I know coach Hawies has spoken to him and he only had good things to say.”
“He is a hard-working player and a leader. It’s something that I think we really need in that position along with a guy like Frans Steyn, if he is available for us.”
“It’s also great to see former players return and being prepared to plough back into the union.”
“We are really looking forward to his return.”
Ebersohn will join the Toyota Cheetahs on 1 August 2021 and is contracted until 31 July 2023.