Twickenham bosses last night told English rugby union's Reform Group to leave the running of the game to the professionals.

The independent body, self-styled champions of the grassroots clubs, has become a vehicle for the amateur clubs to flex their muscles over Premiership counterparts.

Reform Group resolutions at the April 27th special general meeting could lead to a split between the professional and amateur games.

Brian Baister, chairman of the Rugby Football Union management board, said: "I believe amateurism has been in for a very, very slow death for some people. Only a couple of years ago there were 45 committees all of which needed personnel, chairmen and secretaries. For many of them, this was their opportunity to remain active in retirement or whatever.

"We are committed to handing over the game to professional staff. I believe there have been improvements in accounts, marketing in terms of filling stadiums and the England team. I believe all these improvements are because we have handed the game over to qualified professionals."