Several clubs express interest in joining Premiership Women’s Rugby league

The Guardian Sport2 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 8:53 AM

Last updated Jun 2, 2026

Several clubs express interest in joining Premiership Women’s Rugby league
Summary

Multiple clubs, including Bath, have shown interest in joining England's Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR). The league, currently at nine teams following Worcester Warriors' closure in 2023, has not set a formal timeline for expansion. This exploratory phase is part of a 10-year plan aimed at developing a competitive and sustainable league. Key issues such as the treatment of non-professional players and potential travel concerns for clubs from other nations are still under discussion, emphasizing the complexity of the intended growth.

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By the Numbers
  • Bath and other clubs have registered interest in joining PWR.
  • PWR currently features nine teams after the demise of Worcester Warriors.
  • Expansion discussions are part of a 10-year development plan.
  • Key questions include travel for non-professional players and international competition.
  • The league is regarded as one of the best women's club competitions globally.
Latest Updates
  • 8:53 AMThe Guardian SportThe Breakdown | Expanding Premiership Women’s Rugby could be a game-changer, if done right
What they're saying
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Interest in joining the English top flight is strong, but how non-professional players are treated remains a key obstacle Several clubs including Bath have registered their interest in joining England’s Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR). The expansion of the top flight has no concrete timeline, but the possibility of the league growing has thrown up different discussion points. How will non-professional players deal with travel if a club from another home nation is introduced? Will the expansion aid international competition? And how do players feel about it? Before those questions are answered, let’s deal with the PWR expansion plans. The expression of interest phase was just an “exploratory” process and not a formal application to join the league. The move is part of the PWR’s 10-year plan to grow a sustainable and competitive league. The top flight is widely renowned as the best women’s club rugby competition in the world with international talent such as Ireland’s Aoife Wafer, New Zealand’s Alana Borland and Canada’s Sophie de Goede involved. However, the league has just nine teams after Worcester Warriors’ demise in 2023. Continue reading...

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