, it is understood that Ealing were last month informed that – for the second successive season – the London-based club would not be promoted to the English top flight because it did not meet RFU criteria.
The Trailfinders are desperate to compete at the highest level and the latest setback is believed to have encouraged them to explore the possibility of competing in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship. Merging with Ospreys would be a complicated logistical and contractual process but given the WRU’s struggles, there is a strong likelihood that one of the Dragons, Cardiff, Ospreys or Scarlets may be cut next season.last week reported that as many as 12 international and experienced players at Cardiff were told there wasn’t enough money to pay them what they are currently earning.
It came after a week of turmoil in Welsh rugby when players threatened to strike and cancel their Six Nations match against England on 25 February. The latest news highlighted the dire financial situation facing rugby in Wales, even after strike action was averted.