Oxford is still in the running to host semi-professional Championship 1 rugby league in 2013.

The Rugby Football League (RFL) are introducing four new teams into their third tier next year in order to help promote the 13-man code.

So far, Northampton, Hemel Stags and University of Gloucestershire All Golds have been chosen after making successful proposals.

It is understood that an Oxford bid, with Iffley Road used for home games, is competing with Coventry for the final spot.

A decision on the fourth venue will be announced later this summer.