WalesOnline understands the vast majority of players would also consider opportunities outside of Wales
The vast majority of Welsh rugby players are against the Welsh Rugby Union’s plans to reduce the number of men’s professional teams from four to two.
A statement from the organisation that represents Welsh players has outlined that the WRU’s ‘optimal solution’ does not have their support, following a meeting with the governing body. WalesOnline also understands that the majority would consider opportunities outside of Wales were the two-club model implemented following the ongoing consultation.
A survey conducted by the Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) was presented to the WRU on Monday evening, as part of the four-week consultation process going on through September.
The WRPA have now released a statement following that meeting, stressing that they want to work with the WRU and other stakeholders to find the best path forward for Welsh rugby. Get the latest breaking Welsh rugby news stories sent straight to your inbox with our FREE daily newsletter. Sign up here.
However, following the survey by players, it is clear that the proposals to go from four to two clubs do not have the backing of the playing pool in this country.
“The Welsh Rugby Players Association (WRPA) would like to thank the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) for the opportunity to represent our members at last night’s consultation meeting,” read the statement by the WRPA’s CEO, Gareth Lewis.
“We welcome the spirit of open dialogue and remain committed to playing a positive and constructive role in this important process.
“The collective view of the players is clear: the proposed two-club model does not have their support. Players believe it would:
- Reduce professional playing opportunities in Wales, particularly for younger players;
- Shrink the player pool available for the national team;
- Risk alienating supporters and damaging the historic culture and rivalries that define Welsh rugby;
- Limit development pathways and drive talent to leave Wales.
“We feel it is important at this stage of the consultation that the strength of feeling among players is visible to all stakeholders and the wider rugby community.
“With continued interest from the media and supporters, we want to ensure the players’ voice is clearly understood and contributes constructively to the ongoing discussions about the future of our game.
“Looking forward, players believe the future of Welsh rugby must be built on a model that protects playing opportunities, nurtures pathways, preserves identity, and strengthens the game for generations to come.
“We recognises the WRU’s position that all options remain under consideration until the consultation with every stakeholder has been completed.
“The WRPA will continued to engage openly and constructively, working alongside the WRU, clubs, and wider rugby community to help shape a sustainable and successful future for Welsh rugby.”
Wales currently has around 153 senior professional rugby players at the four clubs – Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets – along with academy players as well.
The survey is understood to have received a strong response from the playing group across the four teams.