Rugby clubs in new move to show unity

Rugby gained another set of initials yesterday with the formation of a European body made up of the leading clubs.

The clubs agreed to form the European Professional Rugby Clubs Association (EPRCA) - which will represent the major professional rugby clubs of England, France, Wales and Italy along with representatives of Scottish and Spanish clubs.

In a move aimed a winning over the players, the new body will have player representation.

The organisation will continue to address the key issues facing professional club rugby in Europe, including:

A uniform European competition structure to incorporate a 41 week playing season starting on 1 September 2001.

The adoption of squad capping systems across the major European playing nations including standard budgetary controls.

The creation of a licensing system for player agents Serge Blanco, president of the French League (LNR), and former England hooker Peter Wheeler, now chief executive of Leicester, who are among the prime movers behind the creation of the Association.

"We are very aware that an organisation such as this is needed to make proposals and promote a co-ordinated approach by the clubs," former French full-back Blanco said.

"We want to demonstrate there is a unity among the European clubs and to make sure our point of view is clearly understood."