At present, only two of the three pro teams are expected to qualify for next season’s competition. But a controversial plan to revamp the game in Wales could mean a third Scottish team is admitted.
If, as expected, Wales opts to switch the focus from its club sides to four provinces, all three sides from north of the Border would almost certainly get the Heineken Cup green light. The news was welcomed by Glasgow, who are lagging behind Edinburgh and the Borders in the race to play in Europe's premier club competition.
David Jordan, Glasgow’s chief executive, said: "In general terms we would naturally welcome a move to three places for Scotland in the premier tournament.
"We would like to think that we can still qualify on merit for one of the two existing slots, but clearly we would be delighted to take part in the Heineken Cup whatever the circumstances.
"Every team wants to play at the highest level and there is no doubt that failure to make it into the Heineken would be a huge disappointment."