No official offer to join Pro12 - Cheetahs
The Cheetahs, under threat of being axed from a restructured Super Rugby Series in 2018, are said to have been officially approached by the Pro12 League in the UK.
Reports from BBC Scotland say that the Bloemfontein-based franchise have been 'formally invited' to join the Pro12 League
The Cheetahs, based in Bloemfontein, have been approached by the league, which currently comprises teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Italy.
This comes as the possible axe still hangs over the Free State franchise's head following SANZAAR's model for a new, downsized Super Rugby Series featuring 15 teams..
According to the newly proposed structure, two South African franchises are set to be cut from Super Rugby from 2018. The Southern Kings are also said to be under threat of losing their status in the southern hemisphere's marquee franchise rugby competition.
Cheetahs Rugby CEO Harold Verster confirmed to Jacaranda FM Sport that he is aware of the proposed offer based on the type of game that the Cheetahs play, but denies any official approach by the Pro12 Company.
"For now we are still involved in Super Rugby and any engagements with SA Rugby are sub-judice, so unfortunately I cannot offer any comment on the status of those negotiations."
It is understood that the Pro12 Company are looking at expending their market to the southern hemisphere and North America and they are targeting a South African candidate.