Pro12 in 'advanced and positive discussions' over Cheetahs and Kings inclusion
Pro12 bosses are in "advanced and positive discussions" with South African Rugby Union over the possibility of adding the Cheetahs and Southern Kings to the league following their removal from Super Rugby.
The Cheetahs and Kings were the two South African franchises chopped as part of a restructure, which will also see one Australian side – either Melbourne Rebels or Western Force – axed from the competition.
The addition of the two clubs to Pro12 has been widely anticipated and Celtic Rugby confirmed a decision on their inclusion is on the horizon.
"Celtic Rugby can confirm that advanced and positive discussions are taking place with the South African Rugby Union regarding the introduction of two teams into an expanded Guinness PRO12 Championship," a statement on the Pro12 website read.
"Given the proximity of the 2017-18 season start, a final decision on this potential expansion will be confirmed as soon as practical."
Southern Kings finished fifth in Super Rugby's South African Group, while the Cheetahs ended second bottom. The two contested their final Super Rugby encounter last week, with the Cheetahs staging a fightback to claim a 21-20 win.
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Think it was a great defensive performance by Northampton. They didn't have stage fright in the first half, the Nienaber defense smothered them. They limited Leinster to 15-3 in the first half. It could have been over by then. A great try from Leinster in the start of the second half looked to have sealed it. But Byrne missed another conversion. Northampton started trying little kicks behind the Leinster wingers. Leinster messed one and Smith brilliantly made the conversion. Leinster decided to tighten the game after Byrne missed a straight forward penalty. A few errors got NH into the 22 and they scored and converted with a few minutes left. Another brilliant steal from Lawes saw NH have a final attack which was turned over by Conan. A classic semi final. World record attendance of 82,300. Leinsters 3 week preparation warranted for this one.
Go to commentsJust came back from the game and the atmosphere was amazing. Players stayed afterwards for more than a hour to sign stuff and take photos with fans. Great day out.
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