With several predictions doing the rounds as to who all would be included in the Six Nations team for this year, current news reveals that there would be a significant shake up in the squad. Many members are apprehensive about the changes that would come from.
One of the proposals that are being laid on the table is that professional game for the team would see a new joint body being made that would rule the contract for the players. It would comprise of four regions along with the WRU. This is indeed one of the biggest changes that are being brought to the game since regional rugby came to this area in 2003.
The idea is to ensure a sustainable future for the existing four pro teams of the region – Dragons, Scarlets, Ospreys and Cardiff Blues. This would also help Wales move towards a model which is operational in countries like New Zealand and Ireland. The income would be pooled in as well as TV revenue, all in one pot from which the players would be compensated.
The pot would have a new managing body as well that would comprise of the four pro team representatives as well as WRU. Martin Phillips, who is chief executive of WRU group, stated that there would be several issues that would arise if this change is brought about. Hence, future of Wales Rugby will definitely take a new turn if this kind of management comes into being.
As WRU is currently managing the funds, they have quoted on the one million savings they have accumulated as a result of joint deals on different areas like medical supplies, stationery and insurance. The autonomy and independence of the regions would remain as before but there might be name changes which has not been disclosed or discussed as yet. Private investment would also be possible for the different regions under the new structure.