News

Welsh regions reach agreement

Thursday 20th November 2008

Agreement reached: Head Coach Warren Gatland

Wales' four professional regions have reached an agreement with Warren Gatland over player release for next year's North America tour.

Regional Rugby Wales - who represent Cardiff Blues, the Ospreys, Scarlets and the Dragons - were subjected to a High Court ruling last month with regard to releasing players for three days' national squad training just under a fortnight before the national team tackled world champions South Africa.

The sessions were at the start of a week when the regions faced important EDF Energy Cup group games.

High Court action was prompted by the Welsh Rugby Union, and caused a heated public debate that overshadowed the build-up to Wales' autumn Test series.

RRW claim they have now reached "firm and mutually beneficial agreement" with Wales Head Coach Gatland about pre-tour release.

"RRW are delighted that a firm and mutually beneficial agreement has been reached with the national coach and the regions over the release of players for the upcoming tour of North America," said Moffett.

"The agreement will see players from the regions required for international duties in the summer, including training, released despite the dates requested being outside of the official International Rugby Board window.

"In return, players that may be required for European Rugby Cup and other critical fixtures will in turn be released to the regions as needed.

"In addition, as part of our wider agreement, Warren Gatland has confirmed that Welsh players who will not make up the 24-man match squad for the final autumn international against Australia next week will be released back to the regions to prepare for Magners League fixtures scheduled for the weekend of the Australia game.

"This is a breakthrough in common sense, and demonstrates how the regions and national team can work in tandem when matters are constructively addressed in advance - leading to rugby solutions to rugby problems, rather than turning to law."