Millar confident of securing future of Heineken Cup

INTERNATIONAL Rugby Board chief Dr Syd Millar has delivered an upbeat verdict on the Heineken Cup’s future.

Next season’s tournament was put in doubt by top English and French clubs announcing a boycott of the competition.

But that threat appears to be easing as talks continue between the clubs and union officials.

IRB chairman Millar said: “We are very pleased with the progress that has been made in recent weeks in England and France.

“Genuine dialogue between the Rugby Football Union and Premier Rugby Limited is under way, and I believe the future of the Heineken Cup will be secured.

“I remain positive that an agreement on the key issues for the game in England can be put in place shortly which will provide long-term security for the European competitions.”

Initial hopes had been for Premier Rugby and the RFU to reach agreement on several issues regarding the elite game in England before Sunday’s first all-English Heineken final between Leicester and Wasps at Twickenham.

But although that is highly unlikely, sources say talks are continuing in a positive fashion between both parties following regular meetings during the past week.