Crusaders will not play in the Super League for the next three seasons after the Welsh side withdrew their application for a licence.

The Rugby Football League announced the 14 clubs to take part in the 2012-14 seasons at Old Trafford this morning.

Wakefield Wildcats had been expected to lose their place to make way for Championship side Widnes who were granted a new licence back in March.

Widnes had already had their promotion from the Championship confirmed for next season and with no league expansion planned, one of the current Super League clubs was certain to be demoted.

Halifax were in the running to join Widnes as a new Super League club but their bid for a licence ultimately proved unsuccessful.

Wrexham-based Crusaders are currently bottom of the Super League on four points.