The Cornish Pirates have issued a club statement following a publication in The Rugby Paper which stated the Mennaye side could go 'part-time' next season.

A spokesperson for the Pirates said: "We are aware of the article in Sunday’s The Rugby Paper and the subsequent reaction to this. At this stage, there is no official comment as matters relating to next season and beyond are still being worked through by the management of the Club in tandem with Dicky Evans.

"Ensuring the Club has a sustainable future and remains a competitive and ambitious Club are always at the forefront of discussions."

However, the Cornish Pirates Website does state that one of their goals is to make it into the top flight of rugby: "We then look to build a leading championship side and squad capable of winning the Championship and holding their place in the Premiership.

"Cornwall can support a Premiership Rugby Club and Premiership want a Cornish side in the Premiership. Our plan is to make that happen."

The Cornish Pirates are currently third in the RFU Championship and play current league leaders Doncaster Knights away from home in their next game.

The Pirates are only four points behind the Knights but crucially have two games in hand. This week the Doncaster Knights were disallowed an application for promotion should they win the league by the RFU, a decision they have announced they would appeal.