The Cheetahs are set to retain their Super Rugby status, according to CEO Harold Verster.

It was reported over the weekend that the Cheetahs could be one of three teams to lose their Super Rugby status if the competition was reduced from 18 to 15 teams next year, with Sanzaar having confirmed on Saturday that changes to the format were to be made.

However, Verster told Netwerk24 that his information indicated that the tournament would only be reduced from 18 to 16 sides, with a team from South Africa (expected to be the Kings), and a team from Australia likely to lose their place.

'All I can say is that we are safe. I keep my ear to the ground,' Verster said.

'There is much discussion about the current series and the format, and that two teams from South Africa and and a team from Australia will fall out.

'There was even speculation that we would return to a Super 12, but my information is that we are going to be reduced from the current 18 to 16 teams, which means the Cheetahs are safe.'

OPINION: Cheetahs must stay in Super Rugby

Photo: Gerhard Steenkamp/BackpagePix