The future of Connacht is set to come under discussion when the Irish Rugby Football Union meets to review cost-cutting options on Thursday.

But the Irish players' association (IRUPA) have demanded to have its say before any decision is made on the status of the provincial team.

Connacht - along with Ulster, Munster and Leinster - are funded by their sport's national governing body.

The other three teams have been conspicuously more successful than Connacht.

And with the IRFU predicting losses of 2.5m Euro this year and 4.5m in 2003, Connacht officials fear they will be forced to bear the brunt of the measures.

Further meeting

There have even been suggestions that the Connacht team, which reached the quarter-finals of this year's Celtic League, could be wound-up.

Other options reported to have been put forward include an across-the-board reduction in playing contracts from 120 to 90.

An IRUPA statement read: "It is with grave concern that we have become aware of numerous reports regarding the possible disbandment of the Connacht professional set-up.

"We expect the IRFU to keep us informed of all developments in this matter and consult with the IRUPA before they make any decision which may directly and adversely affect the livelihood and careers of our members".

Connacht have been granted a meeting with Leinster, Munster, Ulster and IRFU officials next week.

Meanwhile, Connacht coach Steph Nel will be without hooker Marnus Uijs for Saturday's Parker Pen tie against Narbonne on Saturday.

South African Nel has other injury worries and has named a panel of 22 for the trip to the Stade des Sport et de L'Armitie.

Connacht: R McCormack, P Bracken, F Boiroux, J Flannery, H Bourke, R Frost, D Browne, M Swift, J O'Connor, J O'Sullivan, C Rigney, E Peters, C Keane, E Reddan, E Elwood, M McHugh, S Moore, D Yapp, J Norton, G Duffy, T Robinson, W Munn.