South African 'home' semi-finals in Champions Cup to be played in Europe

A spokesperson for competition organiser EPCR confirmed that this was a deal agreed prior to the start of this season's tournament, which is the first to include South African teams.

"This is an agreement with SARU (the South African rugby federation)," the spokesperson said according to AFP.

"If the South African teams qualify for the semi-finals, the matches will take place in Europe," said another source close to the matter.

The three South African sides contesting the competition - Bulls, Stormers and Sharks - will, however, be able to stage last 16 and quarter-final clashes in South Africa, should they earn the right to.

And if two South African teams qualify to meet in the same semi-final, the match will also be played in South Africa.

All three South African sides are currently on track to qualify for the Champions Cup Round of 16, which is scheduled to place in late March/early April.

The quarter-finals and semi-finals will also follow in April, before the final on 19 May.