The ink has not yet dried on the Blue Bulls contract of Griquas and Springbok wing Bjorn Basson and already there have been major consequences for the Griqualand West Rugby Union (GWRU).

It is believed that they did not consult Super 15 partners Free State and the Griffons in the decision to make Basson available to the Bulls.

The Cheetahs will now be seeking legal advice to determine whether the GWRU had disregarded the policy for the transfer of Super 14 players that had been signed by all three provinces.

If that has happened, legal steps may be taken against Griquas and in an extreme scenario his contract with the Blue Bulls may even be voided.

Basson is due to report for duty in Pretoria on November 1 once he has completed his Currie Cup duties with Griquas.

Cheetahs managing director Harold Verster was in a tele-conference with Griquas and the Griffons on Tuesday morning in which Basson’s move was discussed in depth.

The Cheetahs paid 60% of Basson’s Super 14 salary.

“In light of what has happened, the Cheetahs’ executive committee gave approval for us to seek legal advice on the matter,” said Verster.

“As soon as we have received the necessary recommendations there will be a special directors meeting where the findings, and the consequences thereof, will be discussed,” said Verster.

The Cheetahs are currently locked in a legal battle with the Sharks about the services of another wing, Lionel Mapoe.

The loss of Basson will be another setback for the Cheetahs ahead of next year’s Super 15.

“Bjorn is one of the Cheetahs’ top players. We are making every attempt to keep our star players in the region. We have to protect our interests,” said Verster.

Griquas chief executive Arni van Rooyen did not want to comment.

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