Heineken Cup Launched Amid Confusion

The 2013-14 Heineken Cup season was launched in Paris earlier this week despite its future as European rugby's premier competition being shrouded in confusion and doubt.

As stakeholders of the game continue behind-the-scenes meetings to determine a way forward, the players are as keen as anybody for a solution to be found as soon as possible.

Perpignan and Wales back James Hook says: "I think it is difficult as a player you want to just concentrate what is on the field. Hopefully for the good of the game it will be sorted soon."

And Bernard Laporte, former coach of France and now in charge of Toulon, added:

"I think this merits a lot more dialogue between those involved but I also understand the request from the presidents of the clubs concerning the redistribution of money.

"It is up to them to find an agreement. When I hear there are no meetings and that no one has asked to organise any meetings or take any decisions, I don't know who is right. Again further dialogue is needed on the part of our authorities."

The pool stages of this year's competition will begin on 11th October and the final will be held at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on 24th May 2014.

Video courtesy of SNTV