The Australian Rugby Union has confirmed the Western Force or the Melbourne Rebels will be cut from Super Rugby from next year, with a decision to be made in the next three days.
Australia's Perth‑based Western Force and South Africa's Kings are two of the teams considered to be the most vulnerable franchises.
The two teams will be consulted as the ARU further examines their financial position.
The ARU chairman Cameron Clyne says they looked at three teams, the Brumbies, Force and Rebels before deciding the Brumbies were safe.
He says financial burden placed on the ARU by having five Super sides was hurting rugby in Australia.
He says they supported the restructured format for the 2018 season.
Clyne also stressed it was an ARU decision to drop a team.
This week, the Crusaders will face the Sunwolves at 7.35pm Friday.
On Saturday, the Reds will take on the Kings at 5.05pm, the Blues will face the Hurricanes at 7.35pm while the Rebels will take on the Brumbies at 9.45pm. The Chiefs play the Cheetahs at 1.05am Sunday.
Source: Radio NZ
