Cheetahs receive invitation to join PRO12 – report

Editor

South African Super Rugby franchise the Cheetahs have reportedly received a formal invitation to join the PRO12.

According to the BBC, the Bloemfontein-based outfit were approached by the PRO12 which currently comprises clubs from Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Italy.

The Cheetahs are currently participating in the Super Rugby competition but face an uncertain future after the Southern Hemisphere's governing body, SANZAAR, announced that the tournament will be culled to 15 teams as part of a new structure 2018.

The Cheetahs and Kings appear to be the South African sides most likely to be axed  – along with one Australian franchise – from Super Rugby this year although the South African Rugby Union (SARU) are yet to make an announcement.

Last month, Tony McKeever, who was the Port Elizabeth-based Southern Spears' chief executive, proposed that the two South African sides, who will be axed from Super Rugby, take part in the PRO12.

And it appears that that the PRO12 have listened to his suggestion although a spokesmanfor the tournament declined to comment when approached by the BBC.

The PRO12 have explored options for expansion in other European countries as well as North America in a bid to generate more money and tap into new markets.

There have also been reports in the past that SARU want to explore the possibility of participating in a Northern Hemisphere tournament.