Welsh rugby star Joe Hawkins has blasted the WRU’s plans to cut its professional men’s teams from four to two. Hawkins pulled no punches in his criticism of the blueprint, labelling it as a plan that could “kill the game” entirely.
Hawkins and other players were informed about the move earlier this week, but it’s been met with fierce backlash. It’s claimed the Welsh Rugby Players’ Association have urged players to engage in the process and air any concerns they might have.
Taking to social media to express his disappointment, Hawkins said on X: “I think everyone agrees change is needed, but going down to two from four seems very short sighted. It will definitely increase squad quality and maybe success short term but probably at the cost of the little fans Welsh rugby has left walking away which will kill the game and even more players heading to England at a young age due to lack of playing opportunities.”
He continued: “What happens then in five years when there is no fans and all the best young players are over the bridge with no one coming through? Also, as a player, if two new teams are made then who wants to play for a team with no history and no loyal and passionate supporters? All the best Welsh players will want that and find it outside of Wales.”
If given the green light, the proposal will see the number of professional players in Wales reduced from roughly 170 spots to around 50 instead. Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets currently make up the men’s sides in Wales, but due to financial struggles, that number could be cut in half.
Chief executive, Abi Tierney said: “This is a momentous day for Welsh rugby. No decisions have been made, but we feel based on the analysis this is the strongest [option] yet. I know how emotional rugby is in Wales and people will be hurting today, when they think what it could mean potentially for them and their team.
“I recognise the hurt and anger people are going to be feeling. Change is hard and this is hard for fans. But fans’ numbers drop has also not been a great experience for anybody, and we want to create an experience they can be proud of. What we were doing and keeping doing for fans was not the right thing. I would encourage everybody to imagine how exciting it could be and take that step into the future.”