Wales' four regions and the Welsh Rugby Union have re-opened talks, offering hope that their scheduled High Court battle next month can be avoided.

The two sides are due to face each other in court on 9 September in a bitter dispute over player release for the New Zealand Test on 7 November.

If the High Court agrees with the regions the match could be in doubt.

But BBC Sport Wales understands that fresh moves aimed at settling the dispute have been made.

The regions, through umbrella body Regional Rugby Wales, say they are not obliged to free players for that game, arguing it falls outside the International Rugby Board Test match 'window'.

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The WRU has already sold out the game at the 74,500-seat Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

The relationship between Wales's four professional sides and Welsh rugby's governing body has recently been at an all-time low.

Despite almost two years of talks they have failed to agree on a new Participation Agreement, a document which it is hoped would formalise the relationship between them.

The regions want more money per season from the governing body, arguing that it is vital to help them keep Wales stars playing in Wales.

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