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Rucks and Riches: English rugby 'at rock bottom and trying to move ourselves out'

Rob Baxter and Less KissGetty Images

London Irish played their final Premiership game against Exeter on 6 May before filing for istration

By Alastair Telfer
BBC Sport

The past 12 months have been a sobering time for domestic professional rugby union in England.

Just under a year ago, the English Premiership had 13 teams. Now, there are 10.

London Irish,Wasps and Worcester have all gone into istration, and last month Championship title-holders Jersey Reds ceased trading.

Why are so many clubs failing? Is this rock bottom? Or is there more to come?

In iPlayer documentary Rucks and Riches, which will be broadcast this weekend, BBC Sport takes a closer look.

Why are rugby clubs failing?

Since English rugby went professional in 1995, clubs have largely relied on rich benefactors. In September, it was reported the combined debt of Premiership teams was more than £500m.

The fundamental problem, says Wasps t Andrew Sheridan, is that costs have always far exceeded revenues.

"Three clubs in one season was pretty drastic and tragic, but you ask was I surprised">