Counting down from 10: The days that look likely to shape a generation

THE next 10 days will be crucial in determining the future of the professional game in Wales as the Welsh Rugby Union's formal consultation process comes to an end.

- STEFFAN THOMAS

This Friday the survey will officially close, but that won't be the end of the consultation process with a series of meetings still to take place which will conclude with a WRU council meeting on September 30.

As of yesterday, 6,826 people have visited the survey and 2,905 have downloaded the consultation document.

The WRU executive, which is led by director of rugby and elite performance Dave Reddin, tabled what they consider to be the 'optimal solution' last month.

This includes a reduction from four to two professional men's sides, who will also run women's teams.

Each men's team will have a budget of £7.8 million but Reddin also wants to build a national campus with both teams training out of the same facility.

On top of this, the WRU would require full control over the rugby operations at both sides but still require significant private investment.

Other options include a reduction to three unevenly or evenly-funded teams, while sticking with four in a tiered funding model is also an option.

The WRU also wants to enhance the Super Rygbi Cymru competition.

Despite Reddin outlining his preference for a reduction to two professional teams, the WRU has met with all four current sides Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets to get their views.