Andrew plan gets green light

Rob Andrew (left) has received unanimous backing

Rob Andrew's plan for English domestic rugby has been unanimously agreed by the country's Premiership clubs.

Although no official decision has been made Tuesday's development effectively rules out the proposal for a British League put forward by Andrew's rival Tom Walkinshaw.

The body representing the top flight clubs - English First Division Rugby (EFDR) - said that talks would continue until the end of June.

I am pleased with the unanimity achieved within EFDR and look forward to developing a successful partnership with the RFU in the long term

Tom Walkinshaw

Talks will now be held with the Scottish and Welsh Rugby Unions with a view to a British Cup being launched in the autumn.

Gloucester owner Walkinshaw, who had proposed the rival British League welcomed the fact that a decision had been effectively taken.

"I am pleased with the unanimity achieved within EFDR and look forward to developing a successful partnership with the RFU in the long term," he said.

On a long-term basis, Andrew has proposed that 12 franchises should be set up from the 2001-02 season.

Walkinshaw has effectively admitted defeat

Clubs in the Premiership next season will be given the first chance to apply for a franchise, although they will have to meet minimum standards for their ground and potential development.

This could cause a problem for the ambitious Rotherham club, who will play Bedford in a promotion play-off later this month.

Andrew also proposed there should be an end of season play-off between the top eight clubs.

He also wants a pre-season challenge match between the Premiership champions and a nominated team from the Celtic countries.

The most contentious issue that remains is the allocation of franchises.

Only Leicester, Saracens, Wasps and Gloucester currently meet the minimum ground capacity of 10,000.

There would also be only three franchises in London, with Saracens, Wasps and one of either Harlequins or London Irish - or a merger of the two.