Cheetahs chief executive: We are safe in Super Rugby

The chief executive of the Cheetahs has expressed confidence in the franchise retaining its Super Rugby status, amid a looming restructure of the competition.

SANZAAR, the governing body that operates Super Rugby, held an executive committee meeting in London last weekend, amid rumours that up to three of the current 18 teams are at risk of being dropped.

Cheetahs chief executive Harold Verster was quoted by Netwerk24 as saying: “All I can say is that we are safe. I keep my ear to the ground.

“My information is that we are going to be reduced from the current 18 to 16 teams, which means the Cheetahs are safe.”

SANZAAR CEO Andy Marinos said on Saturday: “Following two days of robust discussion there are a number of tournament considerations that now require further discussion and consultation. This includes final consultation within the national unions and discussion with key stakeholders that would allow the adoption of changes proposed by the strategic plan.

“SANZAAR will make a formal statement on the future of the organisation, Super Rugby and the tournament format in the coming days once these further meetings have been concluded.”