The Cheetahs’ application to play in the new Intercontinental Shield competition has been accepted, but they have to wait until next year to find out whether organisers will approve their participation.

The union has confirmed its interest in joining the new competition believed to consist of teams from Spain, Germany and Russia.

‘The Free State Cheetahs have applied for participation in a new competition in Europe. The Cheetahs are excited about the prospects of participating in the competition and optimistic that their application will be successful. The details of the competition still have to be formalised and ratified by the European Rugby Champions Cup,’ read an official statement.

According to Rapport, the Cheetahs are one of several franchises that have been informed that their application has been accepted and that a final call will be made in February 2021 following negotiations between the competition’s organisers and potential sponsors as well as broadcasters.

The Intercontinental Shield is believed to kick off in October next year and the top teams could qualify to play in the European Challenge Cup.

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