The mediation process aimed at finding a solution to the the current impasse over the future of the Heineken Cup began yesterday and will be completed this afternoon.

No representative from the English Premiership Rugby (PRL), French La Ligue Nationale du Rugby (LNR) or Regional Rugby Wales attended the meeting at an undisclosed Dublin hotel.

On Tuesday the Welsh regions pledged their support to the breakaway tournament proposed by the PRL and LNR.

The mediation talks are being chaired by Canadian lawyer Graeme Mew. The six-member unions, including IRFU representatives, were present along with ERC chief executive Derek McGrath and its president Jean-Pierre Lux.

Flanker Chris Robshaw
Meanwhile, England coach Stuart Lancaster stuck with the tried and tested yesterday when he named flanker Chris Robshaw as his captain for the three November Tests against Australia, Argentina and New Zealand. Robshaw has been Lancaster's first-choice skipper since he took over the coaching duties from Martin Johnson two years ago, the Harlequins man getting the honour in only his second Test. Robshaw was rested from England's victorious two-Test tour of Argentina in June when fellow flanker Tom Wood took over the captaincy but, despite criticism of his leadership in the 30-3 Six Nations thrashing by Wales in March, Lancaster had no hesitation in returning to his first choice.

“First and foremost among criteria for captaincy is to be on the team sheet and Chris is in there on his playing ability. But on top of that he has a massive amount of respect within the squad and has led England well,” Lancaster said.

“Every team needs leaders - we are building a strong group and Chris is at the forefront of that leadership.” Wood, who was the frontrunner to be Lancaster’s captain two years ago before a foot injury ruled him out of action, is expected to be picked as blindside flanker.