English and French Euro rebels look increasingly isolated

It took a bit of time, but the Irish, Welsh, Scottish and Italians have come out fighting in a bid to cut renegade English and French clubs off at the pass.

The English and French clubs still say they have no interest in resuming negotiations with ERC over a new tournament for the Heineken and Amlin Challenge cup competitions, but their breakaway plans are now in serious jeopardy.

Yesterday, the IRFU clarified it will not be participating in future tournaments which do not have the full approval of the IRB.