Oxford Cheetahs, Leicester Hunters and Liverpool Chads had all moved up to Division Two whilst Tamworth Tammies dropped out.
The three new sides were Cardiff Dragons, Long Eaton Archers and Wolverhampton Wasps.
[3] The 1951 National Trophy (sponsored by the Daily Mail) was the 14th edition of the Knockout Cup.
The final was held at Penarth Road Stadium in Cardiff on 23 October.
[9][10][11] Aldershot Cardiff Exeter Long Eaton Plymouth Poole Rayleigh St Austell Swindon Wolverhampton