THE WRU is actively exploring the possibility of a future Anglo-Welsh competition. Multiple sources from both England and Wales have confirmed that preliminary discussions have occurred between key figures on both sides of the Severn Bridge.

Currently, the WRU is still under contract with the United Rugby Championship (URC) for a few more years, where it also holds stakeholder status. One proposal under consideration involves merging the URC with the Gallagher Premiership to create an Anglo-Welsh conference.

WRU Chairman Richard Collier-Keywood, when questioned about these talks by Wales Online, refrained from commenting directly but acknowledged the interest. “I’m totally aware that most Welsh people would want competition against England, and that does feel like a good direction of travel,” he said.

“At present, we remain committed to the URC. There are downsides and positives to the URC, and we aim to enhance the situation from a Welsh perspective. Our priority is to ensure stability for our four clubs and secure a sound future for them over the coming years. Once this is achieved, we can revisit and discuss future goals.”

Within Welsh rugby circles, there is a strong desire for more regular Anglo-Welsh fixtures. The URC has struggled to engage the broader public, and fixtures with English clubs would likely be more appealing and cost-effective compared to trips to South Africa or Ireland. Increased regular attendance is also anticipated.

“I’m totally cognisant that most Welsh people would want jeopardy against England, and most English people would want jeopardy against Wales,” Collier-Keywood continued. “However, we are currently committed to the URC for a few more years. It’s early days, but all options are on the table. There are benefits and downsides to the URC, and we aim to improve the situation from a Welsh rugby perspective.”

The WRU’s primary goal is to ensure the survival of its four professional clubs – Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, and Scarlets – which face an estimated £29 million funding gap over the next five years. Previously, the WRU indicated that without a plan to bridge this funding gap by autumn, they would consider triggering the two-year notice clause on the Professional Rugby Agreement. This could mean cutting a team or implementing a tiered funding model. However, Collier-Keywood insists that retaining all four professional clubs remains the WRU’s priority.

“The arrangements we are looking at with the clubs retain four teams,” he said. “This is our stated objective because we believe four teams are necessary to consistently achieve our goal of being in the top five in the world. Reducing the number of teams would make this objective more challenging.

“The gaps mentioned are the figures we believe need bridging to maintain four competitive teams. These numbers reflect the stretch goals for our teams to be competitive in their competitions. I am optimistic we will reach this goal. We have positive engagement with the four clubs. While it’s not solely the WRU’s decision, as the clubs are privately owned, we are in good and positive dialogue to reach a favourable outcome.”

Collier-Keywood also called on regional team fans to support their teams. “The biggest thing fans can do to help is to attend matches. I recognise it’s a virtuous circle – if your team is winning and performing well, you’re more likely to attend. We need to boost our supporter base, make it vibrant, and have them present at matches.”

All four professional clubs are currently bound by a salary cap of £4.5 million, with allowances for two marquee signings outside the cap. Collier-Keywood is optimistic about increased funding for the clubs in the near future. “Absolutely, I do,” he said when asked about the potential for increased funding. “While it’s a tough ask for the very next season, we aim to ensure our teams are competitive in the years to come.”

The WRU’s exploration of an Anglo-Welsh competition represents a potential shift in the rugby landscape, promising exciting prospects for both Welsh and English rugby fans.