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Elite Domestic Competition: Neath make second bid to join Welsh rugby's new league
Image source, Huw Evans Agency
Neath have confirmed they have submitted a second bid to join Welsh rugby's new Elite Domestic Competition (EDC).
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has already named nine clubs to compete in the league, which will replace the existing Welsh Premiership from 2024-25.
But the governing body appealed for a 10th to join for the competition to "perform at its optimum level".
Neath had an initial application turned down by the WRU.
The club called their omission "grossly unfair" and "reprehensible" but have now said on social media they have "submitted a second expression of interest" and "hoped they would be received positively" after further talks with the WRU.
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Aberavon, Bridgend, Carmarthen Quins, Ebbw Vale, Llandovery, Newport, Pontypool, Swansea and RGC 1404 are the nine confirmed clubs. The tournament is to be ring-fenced for three seasons with a salary cap for all teams.
Cardiff, who initially declined to apply, are set to compete for the final place after coming under new ownership.
No Cardiff regional club was among the initial nine EDC teams announced by the WRU in February.
Merthyr said the reduced competition was financially unviable and "disengaging" for players and supporters due to the limited number of games, while Pontypridd claimed the competition would "jeopardise its solvency as a commercial entity".