The Rugby Football Union will break new ground in April when it stages both the Tetley's Bitter Cup semi-finals at one venue on the same day.

The two last-four ties will be held at the Madejski Stadium in Reading on April 8 kicking off at 2.15pm and 5pm following talks with English Rugby Partnership and the competition's sponsors.

The matches, both of which will be screened live by Sky TV, will take place at the ground which has a capacity of 24,200 where Richmond were based last season and where Division Two soccer club Reading play.

The Royals' clash with Gillingham will now be played at the stadium the previous day, Friday, April 7, with a 7.45pm kick-off.

RFU operations director Terry Burwell said: "We're delighted that the clubs are supporting this initiative. It is our belief that we will be able to provide an excellent afternoon of rugby for the spectators."

The draw for the semis will be held at the Madejski Stadium on February 28. The four quarter-final ties are Bristol v Harlequins, London Welsh v Northampton, London Irish v Gloucester and Wasps v Manchester.