Wales legend Sam Warburton has revealed that one of the Welsh regions almost entered administration, but was saved by a benefactor.
Warburton, who was writing about the ongoing crisis in Welsh Rugby, revealed that his former club Cardiff came dangerously close to trouble.
Warburton wrote in The Times: “I know for certain that last month, if it hadn’t been for the generosity of the long-term benefactor Peter Thomas, in helping pay players and staff, Cardiff would have followed Wasps and Worcester Warriors into administration.
“I’m also pretty sure that at least one of the other regions has been in the same boat and has been similarly saved in the short term.”
BACKING THE STRIKE:
The possible industrial action is an option to be raised next week at a meeting of the body representing professional players in Wales.
Writing in his column for The Times, Warburton said: “I stand with every player in Wales, not only the top Test stars – they simply are not being valued
“I totally support the players and their threat to strike should some sensible agreement not be reached.
“If I was still playing, I would not sign these new contracts,
A number of players have now spoken out on social media about the impact of the uncertainty around the player contract situation.
Ospreys and Wales flanker Sam Cross tweeted: “It’s time players stood up for ourselves and the WRPA had a seat on the PRB allowing us to have a voice in our own futures and on how the game is run in Wales going forward.”
All Blacks legend Sonny Bill Williams has also shown his support to the Welsh players speaking out, tweeting: “Name me another “business” where the “employees” are treated this way. First NRL now the footy (rugby union) players up north are starting to stand up for their rights! Organisations are making 100s of millions of $ a year off the back of these players and this is how they’re treated.”
PREMIERSHIP CLUBS RANKED BY TOTAL DEBT:
#13. Exeter Chiefs – £13m
#12. Gloucester – £27m
#11. Northampton Saints £26.5m
#10. Worcester Warriors – £26.5m
