10 teams for next season means one has to go. Maybe the much laughed at merger between Falcons and Sharks (plus on Yorkshire club) is going to happen, and soon? The leadership at Falcons seem to want it.
If it does, what then happens if the 'American' buyers that Mick Crossan has lined up to take over Irish do not do so? That might also spell the end of Irish. A 9 team league anyone? Maybe the RFU are looking to appoint a new member to head the board? Anyone play a fiddle?
Maybe they could get Status Quo to headline at Twickenham, they could play, 'Down, down, deeper and down.'