Worcester promotion confirmed

Worcester’s place in the Zurich Premiership was tonight confirmed by English rugby chiefs.

The National League One champions will replace relegated Rotherham in the top flight next term.

Their promotion, after meeting all Premiership entry criteria, was ratified by the board of England Rugby Limited following a meeting today.

A final decision had been delayed while ERL sought advice following the threat of a legal challenge from Rotherham.

Rotherham have claimed that Worcester failed to meet a March 31 deadline for satisfying Premiership criteria.

But the ambitious Midlands club, who are backed by multi-millionaire Cecil Duckworth, can now look forward to rubbing shoulders with the English elite.