Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley says there is no incentive to try get South African teams back into the competition because their games did not receive good television ratings.
The Stormers have added depth to their front row with the signing of promising hooker Vernon Paulo from the Cheetahs.
The Sharks confirmed they have recruited former Junior Springbok Gianni Lombard from the Lions this week.
Bulls coach Johan Ackerman is all too aware of the quality flyhalf he has at his disposal in Handre Pollard.
The Lions were left shell-shocked after a brutal 52–17 United Rugby Championship defeat to arch-rivals the Bulls at Ellis Park, a result that exposed major flaws despite recent signs of progress.
Stormers captain Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu accepted responsibility after his side's second successive defeat to the Sharks, admitting a lack of discipline proved decisive in the 36-24 loss at Kings Park on Saturday.