Rugby: Fans welcome Italian sides to League

For the next four seasons Benetton Treviso and Aironi, a composite side, will compete alongside Edinburgh and Glasgow as well as Welsh and Irish opposition.

Neil Hunter, spokesman for the influential Forum of Scottish Rugby Supporters group, said: "While we can't seem to sustain any marketing to get (more) rugby sponsorship and especially a third pro team ourselves it would be incredibly selfish if Scotland were to spoil the party for anybody else.

"That is especially the case in a developing nation although for how long in comparison to Scotland remains to be seen.

"The Italy trip is becoming one of the most looked forward to in the Six Nations and I'm sure supporters of Edinburgh and Glasgow will look forward to visiting the two Italian club sides."

A spokesman for Scottish Rugby said: "The entry of both Benetton Treviso and Aironi will give the Magners league the opportunity to enhance the tournament both on and off the park. We will continue to work with our counterparts in Ireland, Wales and Italy to ensure this new chapter in the development of the Magners League is fully maximised.