REGIONAL rugby could be launched in Wales at the top level next season. That prospect, which will alarm many, is a realistic one after the proposal of establishing four district teams to compete in the Heineken Cup and Celtic League was one of only two put to clubs by the Welsh Rugby Union this week as the way ahead.

It would mean Newport and Ebbw Vale combining under a Gwent banner representing rugby in this area at the highest level.

Underneath four regional sides would be a ten-team Welsh League made up of the current nine premier sides plus the First Division champions.

But missing would be the leading players of the top clubs who would be playing exclusively for the regional teams.

Such a scheme would mean the survival of threatened clubs like Ebbw Vale and Neath, playing in Europe and a Celtic League as part of a combined team and as themselves in a domestic division.

Newport chief executive Keith Grainger says he doesn't see any "logic" in the proposal of merging his club with rivals Ebbw Vale. And asked if he thought if was a realistic possibility, he abruptly said: "No."

"We have not discussed the issue but I cannot see any logic or thinking behind the proposal.

"Newport Rugby Club is a business and we have developed it as such and would not make business sense for us to merge with another business, being Ebbw Vale Rugby Club, 20 miles away. I do not see any point in a merger.

"And also our supporters, just like Ebbw Vale's fans, would not feel part of a team if the two clubs merger - a merger would alienate them"

Ebbw Vale director of rugby Ray Harris reacted: "I cannot really comment on the matter as it will be a decision for the club's owners and board of directors to discuss.

"And I cannot speak for them. Reaction will be heard next Wednesday when the owners of Welsh rugby clubs will be meeting to discuss the proposals being put forward."

The other WRU plan is for five franchised clubs - Newport, Swansea, Cardiff, Llanelli and probably Pontypridd - playing in the two major competitions.