Roux: Crowds will return to PE and Bloem
SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux feels the public are greatly interested in the Cheetahs and EP Kings joining the PRO14.
Both South African sides will take part in the European competition starting in September.
Their participation gives them the opportunity of still being important figures in world rugby after being axed from Super Rugby this year.
Many have expressed concerns that attendance at games will dwindle even further now that both franchises are out of the competition, despite this move being positive for both franchises.
The Kings had a decent crowd attendance in Super Rugby this year, while the Cheetahs did not enjoy the crowds they had hoped for. Crowds in Super Rugby in general this season have been disappointing, with many pointing fingers at the tournament’s format as the problem.
Roux believes that a new competition and teams will bring the crowds back to the EP Kings and Cheetahs games.
"We believe, especially in South African terms, that we've got to look at our product and how we put it forward," Roux told Sport24 on Friday.
"That's not only about what we do on the field but what we do around the field in terms of the stadiums and entertainment.
"I do believe there will be some new interest … it's not the same teams that you see playing here year in and year out.
"I think it's new energy, new teams … old, traditional teams and hopefully people will support that."
Roux also feels the timing of the competition is helpful in bringing back larger crowds.
"It's a different time of year and will not clash with other international competitions," said Roux.
"There will be some clash with local competitions for the first year, but we will overcome that problem.”I think there is genuine interest."
The clash will happen between Currie Cup and PRO14 action, with both SA teams competing in the two competitions at the same time. Roux believes these clashes will be avoided from the 2018/19 season.
Roux also confirmed that not all PRO14 matches would be televised in South Africa.