Duncan, who won the Currie Cup as captain of the 2007 Free State Cheetahs team, served as not only Director of Rugby, but also as head coach of the Currie Cup and PRO14 side and has been an vital part of the Cheetahs over the last four years.

He has made a lasting impact not only on the field, but also in the boardroom.

During his tenure as Director of Rugby, Duncan played an integral part in opening the doors for the Cheetahs in the northern hemisphere and has gone on to coach the team to eight victories thus far in the 2017/18 PRO14.

"We have great appreciation for what Rory has done for Free State Rugby over the last four years and we wish him well," said Harold Verster, Managing Director of the Free State Cheetahs.