Premier Rugby have responded to criticism of their decision to take legal action in their row with the Rugby Football Union by declaring they have been left with no alternative.

The umbrella organisation for the 12 English Premiership clubs claim seeking a solution through the courts to the staging of a fourth England international this autumn is in the "interests of the game".

PRL are locked in a battle with the RFU who have arranged to play New Zealand on November 5th to mark the opening of Twickenham's new South Stand.

The Test falls outside the traditional window for autumn internationals and there is a full Premiership programme scheduled for that weekend.

But Twickenham chiefs, offering to provide compensation, insist England players should be released for the match, prompting PRL to seek legal clarification on the matter.

RFU chairman Martyn Thomas this morning blasted the clubs' decision to pursue their position in the courts and PRL have replied by outlining their reasons.

A statement read: "Premier Rugby had made their position very clear in October 2005, but given this precipitate announcement which precluded further negotiation, Premier Rugby was left with no choice but to seek rapid clarification through the courts.

"The process is in the interests of the game as it provides the quickest and cheapest solution."

The statement continued: "Our issue is we have a contract that in our view only permits eight release periods in season for England squad players, for the protection of both clubs and players.

"The RFU recognise they need to find agreement, yet announced the game without an agreement being in place."