Many supporters will have observed that the WRU released fixtures for the 2023/24 season for all divisions from the Championship down on Friday evening.

However, as usual, the Premiership dates will be last to be released as there is a “pecking order” in place.

Neath secretary Mike Price explained, “Ground availability in the Premiership is the issue. Once the EFL soccer fixtures are known, arrangements can be made for regional rugby fixtures and this in turn impacts upon the Welsh Premiership.

“It is not just a question of Cardiff sharing their ground but Newport and Swansea would obviously prefer to be away when the Dragons and Ospreys regional sides are home. It used to be the case with Llanelli too but alas that is no longer the case.

“It is frustrating for clubs but it has always been a problem and was when we were last in the Division.

“Across the 13 Premiership clubs everybody is keen to learn where we will be and when – we all just have to be patient.”