WELSH Rugby Union bosses have decided to hold fire on a decision on the future of the British and Irish Cup and expansion of the Principality Premiership.
Directors of the governing body met this morning to discuss the two matters but have not made a concrete decision and have pencilled in another meeting to find a solution.
It is likely that the green light will be given to fielding four regional Premiership Select XVs in the British and Irish Cup but the matter about the expansion of the top flight is more complicated.
Increasing the league from 12 teams to 16 isn’t a problem but the timing, whether in the upcoming season or 2016, and who the quartet will be is controversial.
Last season Pontypool finished fifth in the Swalec Championship behind title winners Bargoed, Swansea, Merthyr and RGC 1404. However, only Pooler, Swansea and RGC have the required A licence for Premiership rugby.
Were an increase ratified for this season and it would be harsh for the Gwent club to miss out on league placing as nobody knew the importance of a top-four finish.
Nonetheless all clubs – Premiership, Championship and Division One – will be frustrated at the lack of a decision as they want to get on with planning for coming campaign.
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