The Border Reivers were a continuation of the amateur South of Scotland rugby union team, reshaped as a professional side in 1996.

The establishment and early success of a Celtic League caused the SRU to rethink its professional district structure.

Since their return as a team in 2002, the Borders failed to challenge for the Celtic League title; however, they performed well during the 2005–06, finishing mid-table.

On 27 March 2007, Scottish Rugby Union announced the Reivers were to disband at the end of the season as a cost-cutting exercise.

[2] Many fans and sections of the Scottish media have claimed that the Reivers suffered due to SRU's determination, despite poor crowds and results, to make rugby a success in Glasgow.

The success Glasgow later achieved with sell out crowds and a Pro 12 title win suggests this was a wise strategy.

[3] However, in April 2007, the Borders Rugby Action Group conceded defeat as the SRU insisted there would be no finance available from the governing body.