All bets are off when it comes to the number of domestic franchise teams Cricket SA (CSA) will have playing under its aegis.
Interim CE Jacques Faul made it clear, however, that whatever number is decided on, it will be determined in full consultation with the SA Cricketers' Association (Saca).
Last year, CSA rather jumped the gun by declaring they were looking to introduce a 12-team system, but Saca stopped them in their tracks in their legal argument that the players were not recognised in that decision.
Faul said the current six-team system will stay in place for next season, but that a new system would be launched in the 2021/22 season.
"At the moment, there is nothing on the table. We have to be very careful. This is a process in which we have to fully recognise the player's association. Proper consultation will have to take place."
Part of the process will be driven by a steering committee led by former ICC chief Dave Richardson.
Faul said the process will get going next month.
"On the 10th and the 11th of March, a CEOs meeting will take up the matter. That meeting will include Andrew (Breetzke) from the player's association."
Faul added that the need to revisit the sustainability of the six-team system stems from concerns around sufficient playing opportunity and cost considerations.
"There are various things that you have to weigh up and whatever number you come up with will have pros and cons," said Faul.
Some affiliates seem to have their minds made up.
"I cannot see how it can change," said one insider who did not want to be named. He made the point that too many elements would have to fall into place for the system to change.
"Procedurally, it will be a huge challenge to make that kind of change. It will require a long, drawn-out process."
Another source said changing the system to one that incorporates eight teams would require buy-in from franchises that will need some convincing.
"An eight-team system means they'd have to play across two tiers. A top and a lower tier. There will be a fight about who should be in the top tier because if you are in the bottom one you are stuck for two years and face the prospect of financial ruin."
The source said if teams like North West, Griquas and Easterns find the eight-team system unpalatable the status quo is likely to prevail. "If they go with eight teams it will very much be a compromise option between the six-team option and the 12-team one which got shot down due to player power."
A shake up of the franchise system was much talked about in 2016 but those changes were inextricably linked to the formation of a proposed T20 Global League. That league never got off the ground and the current system remained in place.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.