Sarel Pretorius returns to NSW with Cheetahs after departing Waratahs last year South African Sarel Pretorius will return to NSW with the Cheetahs after playing for the Waratahs last year. DYNAMIC former Waratahs halfback Sarel Pretorius has returned to Sydney for the first time since his uncomfortable departure last year and declared that leaving was the best move of his career. Pretorius has no regrets over his ill-fated stint at NSW but said the Cheetahs' style clearly suited his running-based game, which he hoped to show off against the Waratahs on Friday. "You'll never know if you don't try," he said. I gave it a shot here. Last year was a tough season for everyone. At the end of the day you have to make a decision for where you're most comfortable and play your best rugby. Pretorius joined NSW with much fanfare last season - South Africa's 2010 Super Rugby player of the year arriving as their marquee signing. But he struggled to adjust to the rigid game plan and was eventually dropped to the bench by then coach Michael Foley, and then dumped out of the squad altogether as the Waratahs' season went pear-shaped. Returning to his home franchise, Pretorius rediscovered his best form and heads into the grudge match at Allianz Stadium having inspired his team to an upset victory over the Highlanders with two trademark long-range tries. "My tries came down to pressure," he said. We put a lot of pressure on them, especially with our defence. And the ball just bounced in my hands, a couple of lucky tries I guess. He admitted to mixed feelings upon returning to Bloemfontein. "The type of game plan these guys play, the Cheetahs brand, they like to throw the ball around, that's their main thing," he said. It's mixed feelings, it's nice to be back and to get a good vibe with the Cheetahs guys. It's great to be back with the Cheetahs. Asked if he hoped to exact revenge on his former team, Pretorius said with a smile: "We're going to see what happens. It's going to be different but I'm looking forward to it.