Rugby/EPCR: five South African clubs to take part in European Rugby Cups from 2022-23

"In a landmark expansion of its tournaments, EPCR is delighted to confirm that the five leading clubs from South Africa will compete in the Heineken Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup from the 2022-23 season and beyond," announced the body on 02/06/2022.

"As well as Leinster Rugby, Ulster Rugby, Munster Rugby, Edinburgh Rugby and the Ospreys, the Cape Town-based Stormers, the Bulls from Pretoria and the Durban-based Sharks will compete in next season's Heineken Champions Cup following impressive campaigns in the URC, while the Lions from Johannesburg and the Cheetahs will fly the flag for South Africa in the EPCR Challenge Cup," explained the body.

The United Rugby Championship will be launched in September 2021 with South Africa's top clubs (Cell C Sharks, DHL Stormers, Emirates Lions and Vodacom Bulls) joining forces with Guinness Pro14 clubs (clubs from Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales) to create a 16-team championship, indicated SA Rugby and Pro14 Rugby on 15/06/2021. "Subject to contract, all teams, including South African teams in the United Rugby Championship will be…