UP to six top BARLA teams are set to be involved in this year's York International 9s.
The tournament in previous years has been predominantly for developing clubs, but six from BARLA (British Amateur Rugby League Association), which is widely regarded as comprising the traditionally best amateur teams, are likely to join the battle for the Fairfax Cup this time.
The York 9s takes place on June 4 and 5 at Heworth ARLFC with, in total, 24 teams taking part from across the UK and Europe.
The BARLA teams expected to take part include Challenge Cup giant-killers Sharlston Rovers, the Yorkshire League champions, and East Hull, who have been promoted to the National Conference premier division.
Fairfax Cup holders West Indies are also included alongside former champions FC Lezignan, of France, and RCC Rotterdam, of Holland.
Local representative team York Ironsides will also be entering again, along with a host of totalRL.com Rugby League Conference clubs.
The York 9s is the first leg of the European Rugby League Federation-backed Rugby Grand Prix, which is played under nine-a-side rugby league rules throughout Europe.
Updated: 11:13 Wednesday, May 25, 2005
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