Welsh Rugby Union offers new deal to Ospreys, Scarlets, Blues and Dragons

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THE Welsh Rugby Union has offered the four Welsh regions a fresh participation agreement in an attempt to resolve the off-field crisis gripping the national game.

Following a meeting of the union’s board of directors, the governing body issued a statement where they revealed that a new deal is now on the table for the Ospreys, Scarlets, Blues and Dragons.

The statement didn’t divulge the details of the new agreement, but did say it “will further reflect the WRU’s desire to ensure that Welsh player development and the retention of Welsh players is properly recognised”.

A timetable for discussion has also been provided.

The statement read: “The Board of Directors of the Welsh Rugby Union unanimously agreed that a positive way forward for professional rugby in Wales as set out in the WRU’s statement of 31 December 2013, is in the best interests of Welsh rugby.

“The WRU has informed the four regional organisations that they will shortly be presented with a new agreement in respect of professional rugby in Wales. A timetable for discussion has been provided by the WRU.

“The new agreement will further reflect the WRU’s desire to ensure that Welsh player development and the retention of Welsh players is properly recognised. This is in the best interests of all of rugby in Wales, from the grass roots to the international level.”

While the exact terms of the new agreement remain unclear, this latest WRU statement at least suggests they are ready to talk — in contrast to the bullish press release issued on New Year’s Eve where they threatened to set up new sides following the region’s decision not to sign the five-year extension to the original PA.

The regions want the WRU to back them in joining the Rugby Champions Cup next season — the alternative European competition to the Heineken Cup — which they say will provide each region with an extra £1 million in funding for the next three seasons.

And that stance has been endorsed by the umbrella body representing the English clubs.

Premiership Rugby chief executive Mark McCafferty said: “Premiership Rugby welcomed the news that the Welsh regions are backing the creation of the Rugby Champions Cup and has endorsed the need for resolution in a short timescale. The concept of the new competitions will deliver higher commercial values and a platform for expansion.”

Welsh Rugby Union offers new deal to Ospreys, Scarlets, Blues and Dragons