Plans to cut Gallagher Premiership to 10 teams gather pace after Wasps suspended amid cash crisis

Plans for cutting rugby’s Gallagher Premiership to 10 teams are gathering pace amid the financial crisis in the game.

Wasps withdrew from their weekend fixture against Exeter and have said they are likely to go into administration in the next few days. It follows on from Worcester being wound up amid their own financial meltdown.

With increasing worries that others could follow suit, talks are taking place about cutting the Premiership to 10 teams from 13. Such action would entail a professional second division of 10.

The proposals have received support from Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter and Bristol’s Pat Lam.

Premiership Rugby CEO Simon Massie-Taylor said: “It is our responsibility to set a more sustainable path for English club rugby.

“This was on the agenda already but we need to now accelerate the work we are doing. Our shared goal must be to put in place stronger foundations that underpin the long-term prosperity for the sport in this country.”