European games in prospect

England yesterday embraced the prospect of playing continental rugby when plans for a European Rugby Clubs' Association were agreed at a meeting in London. Representatives from England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, France and Italy met to discuss the new body and also came up with a formula for two new club competitions scheduled to begin next season.

A "top" European tournament will comprise 20 clubs. England, Wales and France will have four representatives, Scotland and Ireland three each and Italy two with each team playing a minimum of eight matches on a home and away basis. The second tier tournament will have 32 clubs, with Wales and France contributing eight teams, England six, Scotland and Ireland four each and Italy two.

Delegates from each country will now meet with their clubs on an individual basis to discuss the proposals, as the plans do not yet have the sanction of the national rugby unions.