English ponder PRO14 switch

ENGLAND’S second-tier clubs are exploring the shock prospect of joining the Guinness PRO14, it has been revealed.

The dramatic move comes as multi-millionaire-owned Championship clubs consider their next move amid reports they will be denied entry to the Gallagher Premiership.

England’s top flight could become ring-fenced and a closed shop, with no more promotion and relegation. That has prompted the likes of megarich Ealing Trailfinders, who are second in the table behind London Irish, examining the possibility of joining Welsh, Irish, Italian, Scottish and South African sides in the PRO14.

It could mean Wales’s four regions – Cardiff Blues, the Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons – getting regular AngloWelsh fixtures of a different kind.

Ealing benefactor Mike Gooley, who has already pumped £25m into the club, has revealed he is ready to take the dramatic action.

His investment into Ealing has seen them rise from the lower leagues in London to second spot in the Championship with ambitions to make it to the Premiership.

The international travel company magnate, who saw his fortune rise to £380m in 2018, told the Mail: “This business of ring-fencing is absolutely counter to the spirit of sport. It might also be unlawful.

“Some Championship sides have invested a lot of money with the possibility that they could reach the Premiership.

“Our first aspiration would be to play in the Premiership. Perhaps the PRO14 would be a second aspiration. We have looked at the PRO14 because they would accept our stadium.

“I haven’t written cheques to accelerate us straight into the Premiership but if we need to spend £7m, then I’m good for it.”

Guinness PRO14 chiefs have outlined proposals to expand the competition further, having already brought South African sides on board for the start of the 2017-18 season.