THE Celtic League title is set to be decided by a new play-off system, similiar to the Zurich Premiership in England, for the next two seasons

An agreement between Wales, Scotland and Ireland is due to be signed on Monday, maintaining the league on a home and away basis.

Ireland and Scotland had wanted the league cut by half with the teams playing each other once and no games during the home internationals, which they felt affected their regions more and devalued the competition.

The new format will enable teams to continue playing through the home internationals while allowing international players to return after the Six Nations championships and make a contribution in the play-offs, hopefully ensuring the best side wins the title.

The Welsh regions will receive £500,000 less funding from the Welsh Rugby Union next season, so the play-offs will provide an opportunity for extra revenue.

Celtic League officials also hope the new format will improve their chances of finding a sponsor for the competition.

Wales are desperate for new money as they fear a player drain to England and France who can afford to pay the best performers more.

The news will come as a welcome boost to new Wales coach Mike Ruddock who has made no secret of his desire that the Celtic League continued in the same sort of structure.

Speaking earlier this month the current Newport Gwent Dragons coach explained his reasons for wanting it to remain in this capacity.

"It is incredibly important that the competition continues to be played on a home-and-away basis," he said earlier this month.

"I have no doubt it helps players measure themselves against quality opposition from the Celtic nations. "It will also prepare them for the step up to Europe and international rugby."

And Celtic Warriors chief executive is another who is delighted with the news of the proposed revamp.

"It will be very welcome news because we're desperate for the extra income those matches will generate," Celtic Warriors chief executive Leighton Samuel said.