 Gordon McKie said tough financial decisions had to be made |
Scottish Rugby Union chief executive Gordon McKie says it would be difficult for Border Reivers to return if they are disbanded at the end of the season. Campaigners have failed in their attempt to save the Magners League outfit from closure in the summer.
They hope the Reivers could return to action by 2008.
But McKie told BBC Sport: "I think that would be pretty difficult. A professional team does not happen overnight. It takes time."
The Borders Rugby Action Group was confident it could find a rescue package to avert closure, but failed to raise sufficient funds.
 | We have a duty to do what's best for the sport in Scotland SRU chief executive
Gordon McKie |
McKie said the SRU had made significant progress in managing its debt with the bank, adding that rugby chiefs needed to make tough financial decisions.
"We do not have a duty to invest in a pro team in the Borders, any more than we have a duty to invest in women's rugby or anything else," McKie said.
"We have a duty to do what's best for the sport in Scotland, and that duty is overseen by the board. It's my job to implement their views.
"The board decided keeping two under-funded pro teams was not in the best interests of the sport in Scotland."
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Interview: SRU cheif executive Gordon McKie