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The Cheetahs believe that local franchises should win the right to play in PRO16, while the union is still considering legal action if they do not get the desired result from negotiations with SA Rugby.
The Cheetahs and Kings were expelled from PRO Rugby, and SA Rugby decided to enter its four Vodacom Super Rugby franchises, Vodacom Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Stormers, as its representatives in next year’s extended PRO16 campaign.
In a statement (below) released on Friday, the Cheetahs argued against his firing, thanking their fans for their unwavering support and vowing to continue fighting if they don’t get what they want from their negotiations with SA Rugby.
The management of ‘The Free State Cheetahs’ takes note of requests from its supporters that we keep them informed of the latest developments regarding the future of Cheetahs.
SA Rugby’s decision to oust the Cheetahs from the expanded PRO16 series has far-reaching consequences for rugby, not only for the Free State, Northern Cape and Eastern Cape, but also for the future of rugby in South Africa. Consequently, many of our supporters urged us to follow the legal path. While the decision can probably be overturned through legal action, we believe that a negotiated and acceptable settlement would be faster and much more constructive.
“To this end, over the past few weeks we have been negotiating at a high level with various parties to investigate all financial implications, alternative competitions and other aspects in the interest of both Free State rugby and rugby in South Africa. As much as we would like to share the details with our supporters, it is simply not possible given the sensitive and confidential nature of the negotiations.
However, we would like to assure our supporters that we are making good progress and that the negotiations are promising. If the negotiations do not yield the desired results, we still have the option of the legal route. We strongly believe that South African franchises should earn the right to play in PRO16. It is a healthy principle that is applied in most competitions abroad, also in football.
‘The continued and unwavering support of our fans is greatly appreciated. Our fans came out in droves to make Orange Monday a hit in late September. No other South African team has a more loyal following than the Free State Cheetahs. We sincerely thank you for that. ‘
Photo: Frikkie Kapp / Gallo Images
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