The Cheetahs are reportedly looking to offload several fringe players before the start of next season’s Pro14 competition.
The Bloemfontein-based franchise has utilised an extended squad since joining the Pro14 last year because the European competition overlapped with the Currie Cup.
However, according to Rapport newspaper, SA Rugby’s decision to have the 2019 Currie Cup finish before the 2019-20 Pro14 season kicks off, means the Cheetahs will no longer need that many players.
Cheetahs CEO Harold Verster has reportedly sent a letter to the players’ agents, informing them of the union’s plans to release several contracted players in order to cut salary costs. The Cheetahs are prepared to write off all transfer fees should any other union or club wish to sign players still under contract.
While the Cheetahs have already identified the players they want to release, several senior players at the union have not yet been informed about this decision and are not aware of Verster’s letter.
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