South African Rugby Side Cheetahs Gets Formal Invite To Join Pro12

South African Super Rugby club Cheetahs was "formally invited" to join the Pro12, according to Jamie Lyall of the BBC. The Cheetahs, based in Bloemfontein, was approached by the league, "which currently comprises teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Italy." Two South African franchises will be cut from Super Rugby from '18, "amid a downsizing of the competition." The Cheetahs and the Port Elizabeth-based Kings are "widely expected to lose their Super Rugby status." This speculation is "thought to have prompted an invitation from the Pro12." The league has explored options for expansion in North America and other parts of Europe as it "aims to generate more revenue and tap into new markets." A Pro12 spokesperson declined to comment (BBC, 6/1).