Cutting deep: Welsh Rugby faces radical reform to reverse sport's decline
Having punched above its weight for so long, Wales has worn its rugby heritage like a badge of honour.
But after a string of disappointing results on the pitch, resignations in the governing body over allegations of misogyny and sexism, and a growing financial crisis, the future of Welsh rugby has never looked more uncertain.Just months after pledging to fund the existing four professional clubs, the Welsh Rugby Union is now considering a radical and controversial restructuring of the professional game, including the possibility of halving the number of clubs from four to just two.
It's a move that would reshape the sport at its highest level in Wales, but one that's already causing anger and resentment among thousands of supporters.It has also created enormous uncertainty for the clubs, with the new season due to begin next month.It would be a very bold move. No international team with fewer than four professional clubs has even finished higher than third in the Six Nations Rugby Championship, let alone win it.WRU CEO Abi Tierney told ITV News today that this is a 'once-in-a-generation chance to get this right for Wales', and acknowledged the urgent need to provide stability and clarity to the game.
With clubs facing challenging financial and performance issues, WRC CEO Abi Tierney explains why the reforms are being put forward
But the turbulence isn't confined to the pitch.
A political row has erupted after Carmarthenshire-based politicians called on the Welsh Government to block the Ospreys' planned redevelopment of the historic St Helen's Ground on Swansea Bay.Neath MP and Swansea East MP Carolyn Harris has hit back strongly, calling their behaviour 'underhand.'
Meanwhile, Ospreys CEO Lance Bradley told ITV News that it's vital the clubs know what's happening 'as soon as we can,' but said short-term pain could be worth it if it leads to long-term gain for Welsh rugby.'We have to keep our eye on the prize here. What we're all aiming for is to get Welsh rugby, at both national and club level, into a much better place than it is now. That's what we're all working together to try and achieve.''Whatever happens, we're very positive about the future here at St Helen's and to be honest, we can't wait to be in.'The landscape of Welsh rugby looks set to change dramatically. The hope is that bold reform can reverse its decline.But the fear remains: cutting teams may only make things worse.
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