But the attrition of team members like JP Pietersen for more lucrative shores can have a silver lining.
The newest Super Rugby franchise went unbeaten through Australia and arrived back in Port Elizabeth to a hero’s welcome.
As the team reels from the Cheetahs’ jaws into Shark bait territory, a golden era has been tarnished.
The confidence engendered by winning on a regular basis has obviously had a profound effect on the entire Cheetahs team.
Demoralised Aussies, who left blood on the bus – not the field – are painfully short of top players.
Following his revamp of the Brumbies, the former Bok coach may be in line for the Wallabies job
It has been a good start for the Super Rugby newcomers but tough games against the Chiefs and the Crusaders will test their mettle.
Are the Stormers going to win the conference by playing the way they did against the Sharks, or are they capable of more?
The Kings may be new in town but if they come out fighting they could take down rugby’s old boys
Competitions that fall below the elite radar are often more enjoyable and strengthen the game, writes Andy Capostagno.