“Unlike in previous years, there is no limit on the size of the squad. Franchises can nominate as many names as they like,” said regional tournament director Johan Botes.

“But when it comes to touring, the rules remain the same. Squads can only travel with 26 players. Sanzar will only cover the costs of 26 players and nine members of management. Even if squads want to increase the number of players on tour at their own expense, it won’t be allowed.

“The only area where they can pay their way is in terms of the management groups. Sanzar will pay for nine, but they can bring additional members at their own cost.”

Sanzar will ratify the squads before announcing them this weekend. But it’s hardly a secret at teams such as the Cheetahs, who named 40 players for the tournament. The Bulls listed 31 player profiles on their website, clearly indicating coach Frans Ludeke’s chosen few. But the identity of the final Lions, Sharks and Stormers squads remains under wraps.

Sharks captain John Smit, who could be playing his final season of Super rugby, expressed excitement at the tournament format, which features 10 local derbies this year.

“It is a bit of a change which spices it up. There is more of a Currie Cup flavour,” Smit said at the Super 15 launch.

“The physical intensity of the local derbies is going to be huge.”