Clash imminent between International and Club Rugby
Yet another country vs. club clash is expected, as Welsh Rugby Union looking forward to have their English based players accessible for the preparation of the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2011.
This tussle will most likely affect players like Gavin Henson, Andy Powell and Dwayne Peel. This arm wrestle has been brought about after the Welsh Rugby Union stated that they will only deal with Rugby Football Union and not the Premiership Rugby Limited,
which actually is the parent organization for the premiership clubs.
Premiership Rugby Limited’s equivalent, Regional Rugby Wales, signed a deal with Welsh Rugby Union in 2009 that had allowed Warren Gatland to call players two weeks before the Tests. Another contract of same sort was signed in England recently, when Rugby
Football Union paid Premier Rugby Limited approximately 110 million Euros, to ensure the availability of players till 2016. However, with CEO Ed Griffiths, Saracens is the club that might let their player to don the red again.
The CEO stated, “I have spoken to Warren Gatland and we are keen for Gavin to play for Wales and for him to fulfill his potential as a rugby player.”
From the club’s point of view, Saracens is eager that their players should perform in International Rugby. Every sportsman wants to play for his national team and represent his country. Such a thought is completely natural and Griffiths is happy to encourage
this act and will do everything he can to make it happen.
Welsh Rugby Union spokesman recently stated as a response to Griffith’s comments, “Our position hasn't changed on this matter.”
He cleverly added, “If Warren has spoken to people at Saracens then it is to see how Gavin is faring on his return to rugby.”
Welsh Rugby Union is not ready to discuss player release issues with Premiership Rugby Limited, instead they opted Rugby Football Union for this.
It seems like Premiership Rugby Limited have to stick to International Rugby Board guidelines and will only release England based players, 35 days prior to the Rugby World Cup 2011. These kind of decisions will affect Welsh national team as they have warm
up matches coming up in August against England.
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