"Four English clubs" - The seven professional rugby teams to fold in the last 18 months

This abrupt end to their journeys not only impacts the players, coaches, and fans but also raises questions about the sustainability and resilience of the sport in different regions.

The list also includes four clubs who played in the English leagues, including the Championship champions.

Worcester Warriors, a well-established English club, faced financial challenges that led to their unfortunate closure. Despite a rich history and passionate fan base, the club struggled to navigate the economic pressures that modern professional sports demand. The last 12 months has been a nightmare for the fans with a new ownership struggling to make any real progress to get the team back on the field.

Wasps, another prominent English club, shocked the rugby world when they announced their closure. The reasons behind this decision may vary, ranging from financial struggles to internal management issues. The absence of such a historically significant club leaves a void in English rugby. They've announced the club could return for the 24/25 season, or if prudent and necessary, the 25/26 season.

In the United States, the LA Giltinis, a relatively new Major League Rugby (MLR) franchise, succumbed to unforeseen challenges. The rise of rugby in the U.S. has been exciting, but the closure of a team like the Giltinis raises concerns about the sport's long-term viability in the American market.

Similarly, Austin Gilgronis, another MLR team, faced insurmountable challenges leading to their demise. The closure of two American teams in quick succession highlights the complexity of establishing and maintaining professional rugby franchises in a country dominated by other major sports.

London Irish, a club with a strong Irish heritage, faced difficulties that forced them to cease operations. The loss of such a well-known team impacts the global rugby community and raises questions about the economic sustainability of professional rugby in the English market.

The closure of the Jersey rugby team is a significant blow to the sport's presence on the island. Local teams often serve as the lifeblood of rugby development in smaller regions, and the folding of a team like Jersey can have long-lasting effects on the growth of the sport in the area. Deputy Kirsten Morel, minister for economic development, tourism, sport and culture, told the States Jersey Reds had consistently failed to live within their means.

In Canada, the Toronto Arrows, a team with a promising future, faced challenges that led to their closure. As rugby gains popularity in North America, the loss of a Canadian team is concerning for the development of the sport in the country.

MLR and the Arrows organisation, together, explored all avenues in an effort to maintain the club’s presence in the League. Unfortunately, after exhausting all options, Toronto was left with no choice but to voluntarily withdraw from the league.

The closure of these seven teams represents a loss of approximately 250 professional rugby positions. This reduction in opportunities for aspiring players is a setback for the global rugby talent pool. However, it's worth noting that the recent expansion of MLR with three new teams demonstrates a commitment to rejuvenating the professional rugby landscape.

You have five minutes to name every club to have played in the Gallagher Premiership, all 28 of them, since the division was established back in 1987.

It’s more difficult than it sounds.

Good luck, and let us know how you do