The Celtic competition has brought itself into line with every major league in world rugby in a move that is sure to generate extra revenue as well as interest throughout the season.
WRU Video: Video package on the Magners League launch
Tournament director David Jordan revealed that the format to be brought in for 2009-10 is expected to mirror the system in the Guinness Premiership, with the top four teams entering into a semi-final before a grand final is played to determine the champion side.
“Our mission is to create a world-class event and the changes we are introducing should move the Magners League in the right direction,” said Jordan.
The call for the Magners League to go down the road of play-offs has grown louder over the past two seasons and tournament organisers hop the move will ensure clubs field their strongest possible sides in the race to finish in the top four as well as provide a new climax to the campaign.
The introduction of play-offs has been a huge success in England where last season saw Wasps defeat Leicester in front of a world-record crowd for a club match of 81,600 at Twickenham.
Jordan added: “Our aim is to significantly move the competition forward, particularly in regard to improving the structure of the competition.
“We also want to improve the quality and intensity of the rugby played and we also want to increase value for our stakeholders.
“The Celtic unions have agreed a set of principles to take the Magners League forward in terms of competitiveness and commercial appeal.
“The play-off system will most likely be between the top four teams, leading to a grand final.
“Given the competitiveness of the Magners League, this will create interest in the final rounds of matches right down to teams in sixth and seventh place.
“One of the issues is that we do not have relegation, so there’s not a lot of jeopardy in the league. Play-offs will improve that and also improve the commercial appeal.”
