WRU approves changes to Principality Premiership

The Welsh Rugby Union Board has approved a range of changes to the game in Wales.

Among the reforms, the board has decided that from season 2016/17 the number of clubs in the Premiership will be increased from its current 12 teams to up to a total of 16.

There will be no relegation from the Premiership at the end of next season (2015/16) to launch the transition process.

A new Premiership Challenge Cup will also be introduced from the 2015/16 season.

It's intended to be a development tool with rounds taking place to correspond with British and Irish Cup weekends throughout the season.

The WRU says this will help strengthen the development pathway into the Premiership through schools, college and youth rugby.