South African sides in Champions Cup proves rugby can be radical when it wants to be

And there we have it, eight have become four. The Champions Cup has always been better in the knockout stages and that’s only been personified further by the woeful system in place for the pool stages.

Two pools of 12 was always a stupid idea – fans get lost in the complexities of it all – but when it’s knockout, one on one, that’s when the Champions Cup oozes class.

And no matter what the traditionalists say, or attempt to argue, the addition of the South African sides has sent the intensity through the roof.

Champions Cup fresh air

We all know what South African rugby is about: powerful scrummaging, strong jacklers and silky smooth backs.

But in this year’s competition – despite no side making the final four – they’ve brought something new. Fresh air.

And that’s not a reference to the Cape Town sea breeze, though I am sure that’s most welcome for many, it is homage to the magi