Former stars concerned over plans to cut regions

WALES' rugby players face an uncertain future as they wait to find out full details of what the WRU's proposal to cut from four teams to two means for their livelihoods.

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The proposed first-choice plan to halve the number of professional teams will be consulted on by the game's key stakeholders over the next six weeks, with a final decision due in October.

The union’s optimal solution to Welsh rugby’s issues will see two teams with 50 players each going forward, a huge cut in players at the top end of the game.

It will be underpinned with a much-improved and financed Super Rygbi Cymru competition involving Welsh club sides, with further details of that element set to emerge.

While the top-end players may well be playing for different teams, many players below international level could find themselves frozen out of the top tier game.

The news, revealed by us yesterday, has sparked a huge reaction, with many expressing concerns and sympathy for players and staff at the four teams during a difficult time.

Former Wales international Tom Shanklin said on X: “I feel for the players, staff and fans who are in huge uncertain times right now.

“Short term two pro teams will hopefully increase results domestically, but the main issue is the next generation of players coming through.