The Welsh Rugby Union confirmed today that its optimal solution for the top level of rugby is cutting number of professional men’s clubs from four to two and that this is the best option for the game in Wales. Other options including the retention of three or four teams were included in the proposal.
A consultation period will begin on 1 September before a recommendation will be sent in October to the WRU board to make a final decision.
In their latest attempt to address Welsh professional rugby’s failures in recent years the WRU has confirmed it wants to diminish the playing base further and will focus on developing two successful teams.
The analysis is correct, Welsh professional rugby is failing and so is the national team. But does not acknowledge the main reason for the lack of success. The Union itself.
This can be attributed to too much focus on central control.
- The WRU has historically prioritised the national team, because internationals at the Principality Stadium are the main income source.
- Regions have been underfunded and treated almost as “feeder” teams for Wales, rather than as strong entities in their own right.
- Constant disputes between the WRU and the regions over funding and contracts created instability.
Our view is that the WRU has failed because it:
- Adopted a compromise regional system that lacked fan loyalty.
- played in defective competitions run for the benefit of Irish provinces
- Underfunded teams compared to European rivals and was more interested it seemed in hotels rather than club rugby.
- Was run with short-term political battles rather than long-term strategy.
- Relied too much on the national team for identity and money and failed to invest revenue gained in professional rugby and participation.
Under the WRU’s watch football has far surpassed rugby in the affections of South Walians. And it is South Wales where they need to focus. Talk of developing rugby in North Wales is sensible but it should not be the focus of the WRU.
Instead of the latest half baked solution, consider this.
* Return the teams to the towns and cities of the four professional clubs.
* Approach the RFU about playing in the English structure. Even if it is at a fee. This will increase revenue, support and visibility for the game in south Wales encouraging private investment.
* if agreed, play two sides in the top tier and two sides in the Championship
The likely decision will be to carry on with a reduction to two without acknowledging their own failings or offering hope to the supporters of professional rugby. It could well be serious for Newport too, affecting the local economy and livelihoods of those working for the Dragons. More to follow.