The path into the Prem is finally set to be closed for good today for clubs like Doncaster Knights, when the Rugby Football Union finally pulls the drawbridge up.

There are reports that the RFU Council is set to rubber-stamp the scrapping of promotion and relegation in favour of a 10-team Prem expanded to 12 teams by 2030.

For clubs like Doncaster Knights, who have repeatedly passed the RFU audit for promotion but not backed it up on the field, and Ealing Trailfinders, who have done the opposite, it will be a frustrating but not totally surprising outcome.

The move would separate the Prem from the rest of the pyramid, leaving the Champ - of which Doncaster are one of 14 teams and clubs like Rotherham Titans aspire to be a part of - will become the top of the rest of the ladder.

Doncaster Knights have been battling to get into the Prem for the last decade. (Picture: George Wood/Getty Images)

placeholder image — Doncaster Knights have been battling to get into the Prem for the last decade. (Picture: George Wood/Getty Images)

Doncaster and their Champ Rugby brethren had begun the season thinking there would be a two-legged play-off decider with the team that finishes bottom of the Prem to determine the 10th team in the top flight next season.

But that opportunity will disappear if the proposal is approved at the Council meeting on Friday.