Restructure proposals leave game in turmoil as insiders speak out

THE Welsh rugby landscape was thrown into turmoil last week after the Welsh Rugby Union unveiled proposals to dramatically restructure the professional game in Wales.

- By STEFFAN THOMAS

Professional rugby players already lead uncertain lives, with injuries and form constantly influencing contract renewals.

But anxiety among players and staff reached a new high following the WRU’s announcement that it is considering reducing the number of professional clubs in Wales from four to three - or even two.

Given the sensitive nature of the situation the people our sister title WalesOnline have spoken to have decided to remain anonymous.

At the training centre of one of Wales’ professional clubs, players and staff gathered to hear an address from a senior figure in the organisation.

“The message went something like this: don’t worry squad, all is all right as of today but that might change tomorrow,’ said someone who was present and wishes to remain anonymous.

“The players were all told the WRU would honour the contract of every player were they to reduce the number of regions. But when he was asked by the wider members of staff whether they would have a job in a year’s time, he was caught off balance.

“The staff were also in that meeting and they were like ‘what about us?’ Then he replied ‘I don’t know what about you? I have no answers.

“This isn’t just about the players; it is about the kit men, the ground staff, the analysts and so forth.”

Among the players, worry and uncertainty are rife.

“The talk amongst some of the less established players in the canteen is also a bit of a worry,’ he added.

“Players generally in and around the canteen are thinking ‘how am I going to get a mortgage if I’m technically unemployed? As a fourth-choice scrumhalf do I just want to go and play at Bridgend or do I just leave the industry and become a mechanic?”