RFU’s fixture fears

The Rugby Football Union today called for urgent talks with Guinness Premiership clubs, who are considering playing another five league games each a season.

To boost revenue, the clubs are looking at increasing the regular season to 27 rounds - some teams would play each other three times - with the extra fixtures seemingly taking place on EDF Energy Cup weekends.

In a statement, the RFU said: "We are concerned at the reported plans. We will be requesting clarification and further detail on these proposals prior to their presentation to the Professional Game Board meeting next Thursday."