Cheetahs: Griquas and Griffons still in the picture

The decision to go it alone after nine years of sharing the franchise with their – on instruction from the South African Rugby Union – was revealed this week.

However, Harold Verster, the Managing Director of the Free State Cheetahs (Pty) Ltd, told rugby365 that it does not leave their 'partners' out in the cold.

It means they will continue to draw on the players resources to add depth to their squad.

"The decision to have full control and sole ownership of the franchise is obviously a big boon to the Free State," Verster said.

"However, we will continue to rely on the co-operation of our partners in the region – Griquas and the Griffons."

Verster said they are well aware they won't be a force without the support and resources of the other two teams.

"We are already busy with drafting an internal agreement [on the way forward]," Verster told rugby365.

"Sole ownership make things like management and the marketing processes a lot more effective, focussed smooth running and more effective."

The Cheetahs will be kicking off the new and expanded Super Rugby competition on the February 26, when they take on the Jaguars from Argentina for the very first time in Bloemfontein.

By Jan de Koning

@King365ed

@rugby365com