MPs have already introduced plans to query the WRU in regards to the end result of its session and the impression on the game’s wider financial and cultural significance in Wales.
“With rugby woven into the material of life in communities up and down the nation, the proposed structural modifications introduced by the WRU right this moment will resonate far past the pitch,” mentioned Ruth Jones MP, chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee.
However the large questions followers needs answering are which group shall be lower and when?
The WRU had sought to cull two areas however the backlash made it clear that was too far and an excessive amount of to bear. However nonetheless, one will go.
Regardless of makes an attempt to minimize the situation, it seems a straight battle between Ospreys and Scarlets – the 2 most profitable golf equipment within the regional rugby period which started in 2003 – for the one west Wales spot.
There stays a hope throughout the governing physique that the 2 golf equipment will merge, as they so almost did so in 2019. That would definitely make a formidable mixture however would take a large quantity of diplomacy – or desperation.
Each groups’ funding take care of the WRU expires in June 2027 however the chances are high that this shall be determined earlier than then.
The WRU remained coy over how lengthy they’re contracted to supply 4 groups to the URC, who had been agency of their want for a good variety of Welsh groups to safeguard the construction and format of the competitors.
The WRU could possibly be liable to pay compensation for withdrawing a group prematurely however negotiations are already going down over a 15-team league, or about who may take the ultimate place if it stays at 16.
South Africa are mentioned to be in opposition to recommendations of inviting a membership from the US or Canada, due to the journey, so may a European choice, say from Georgia, Spain or Portugal, and even an English Championship membership be an choice?
