The Rugby Union Players' Association believes the impending move of two South African Super Rugby franchises to the European Pro12 competition is a perfect reason why Australia should not cut a team of its own and instead push for a trans-Tasman competition.

With two South African teams set to leave Super Rugby next season, reports indicate the two sides will go north and feature in the Pro12, a competition made up of teams from Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales.

For the players: Ross Xenos speaks during last year's Rugby Union Players' Association awards lunch at The Ivy in December. Credit:Jason McCawley

While nothing has been confirmed, there are rumours South Africa is on the outer with other southern hemisphere nations, given they are happy to shift teams to the northern hemisphere.

If other South African franchises were to follow suit, as is being assumed, it could leave Super Rugby in disarray, creating the possibility of an exclusively Australian and New Zealand competition.