London Irish are expected to amalgamate with neighbours London Scottish and Richmond in a three-way merger that will create a new super club.
The merger is certain to end with financially-stable Irish taking over the other two clubs, retaining their own name and shirt, while transferring from Sunbury to ground-share at The Stoop with Harlequins.
English First Division Rugby has set a deadline of this weekend for the agreement to be signed. Richmond and Scottish have been severely hit by cash problems in recent months. 99293575
Meanwhile, Ballymena have responded to suggestions that they will have a weakened squad next season, stating that additional signings this week will in fact strengthen the side. Former Irish schools representatives Andrew Deyermond and Richard Kernoghan will be the main addition to the pack, along with England under-21 hooker Scott Kelly, Derry prop Clarke Millar and former Instonians prop Stuart Boyd.
The other major signing was current Ulster squad member Mark Edwards, coming in at scrum-half to off-set the loss of Andy Matchett. Jeff Parke of Portadown will also be joining the backs and club president Willie John McBride said there were plans were in the pipeline for a number of key positions in the three-quarter line.
Meanwhile, Trevor Brennan has been appointed captain of St Mary's for the coming season.
