Multiple options are reportedly on the table, including an Anglo-Welsh competition, in order to boost revenues.

Instead, the Premiership’s power brokers have been debating whether or not a British & Irish men’s league may be a better way forward. Efforts have since been made to pour cold water on the story but there is rarely smoke in rugby without some glowing embers.

Leinster v Saracens? Glasgow v Harlequins? Ospreys v Bristol? A British and Irish league is under discussion once more.

The Irish Rugby Football Union is understood to be supportive of discussions over a potential merger between the United Rugby Championship and the Premiership amid ongoing talks between the two leagues.

The United Rugby Championship has clarified that the competition is not in discussions to form a British & Irish league after reports about a possible merger emerged this week. According to the Telegraph,