South African Rugby have confirmed that the Cheetahs and Southern Kings will be dropped from Super Rugby in 2018, opening the door for them to join the European PRO12 competition, played between clubs from Ireland, Scotland, Italy, and Wales. CAPE TOWN, July 7 (Reuters) - South Africa's Cheetahs and Southern Kings will explore "other international competition opportunities" after reaching settlement agreements over their future participation in Super Rugby, South African Rugby confirmed on Friday. With all stakeholders pulling in the same direction we can bring success and excitement to rugby in the Eastern Cape.”

Cheetahs chief executive Harold Verster said: “The board of the Cheetahs has reviewed the team’s future and is extremely positive about the prospect of appearing in alternative international competitions. The two franchises have been expected to make way as Super Rugby is reduced from 18 to 15 teams and it is understood representatives from Saru, including the president, Mark Alexander, have visited both this week to discuss their fate. One of Australia’s five teams is also due to be dropped, although the Australian Rugby Union hasn’t yet said which one out of the Perth-based Western Force and Melbourne Rebels will go.
In rugby union, the South African Rugby Union confirms that the Cheetahs and Kings will be dropped from the Super Rugby competition effective at the end of the current season.