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The format for this season's PARKER PEN CHALLENGE CUP tournament has been slightly adapted following the change in Wales from nine professional clubs to five regional sides and there will be 28 teams involved in 14 first round matches. The winners of those matches, along with two 'Lucky Losers', will move forward into the PARKER PEN CHALLENGE CUP, while the remaining 12 losers will be joined by four teams from Spain and Portugal to form the PARKER PEN SHIELD competition.
"We are delighted to be extending our association with the ERC and their tournaments for a further year and look forward to another season of high rugby drama in both competitions," said Parker managing director Jim Haggarty.
"Last season's format worked very well for the clubs and it certainly heightened the interest for both the fans and the media. We look forward to working with ERC and all the clubs to continue the success story this season."
