Italians agree to enter teams in Celtic League

Italy could have four clubs or two 'super sides' in the Celtic League under plans outlined by its rugby federation.

The Azzurri lost all three of their November internationals, including a 25-17 defeat by the Pacific Islanders who had never previously won a test in their four-year history.

In an effort to improve the standard of the national side, the Italian Rugby Federation said last month it would discuss whether to place club sides in the Welsh, Irish and Scottish League.

"The federation board has decided unanimously to add the Italian rugby movement to the Magners (Celtic) League," the federation said in a statement.

"The federation will quickly adopt proposals to guarantee the participation of four clubs in the Celtic League or two select XVs."

The select XVs are likely to be amalgamations of clubs or a collection of Italians not employed by top teams in England or France.

Celtic League bosses had previously welcomed the idea of adding Italian sides.

A committee to run the Azzurri's bid for the 2015 World Cup has also been formed, the federation said.