England's top rugby clubs were last refusing to surrender in their fight for a British League competition this season. They have requested a meeting today with RFU management board chairman Brian Baister.

It is understood that Baister will reaffirm the joint RFU/Welsh Rugby Union stance that logistical difficulties mean the revolutionary project must be put in cold storage for at least 12 months.

But the clubs, anxious to welcome Welsh rebels Cardiff and Swansea on board, believe a solution can be found in time for the new season, which is just 18 days away.

Another day of feverish activity culminated with the clubs remaining defiantly unanimous last night that a British League can get off the ground sooner, rather than later.

Cardiff and Swansea are facing expulsion from the Welsh Premium Division if they do not sign 10-year loyalty agreements with their governing body, despite several deadlines having passed.

If the British League does not happen in time for this season, they claim to have a legally binding agreement concerning friendly fixtures with England's leading 14 clubs.