Rugby players add to criticism of ticket prices

The IRFU is defending its decision to hike the price of rugby tickets for the new Aviva stadium.

A stand ticket for the upcoming Guinness autumn test match series has gone up by about €15 from last year to an average of €85.

The price of a schoolboy ticket has more than trebled from €10 to €35.

The IRFU says it needs the money to develop and nurture the future of the game.

However, rugby players have joined fans in criticising the ticketing arrangements.

Tickets for all four fixtures against South Africa, New Zealand, Argentina and Samoa are being sold as a package, with stand tickets costing €340.

The Irish Rugby Union Players Association is angry that the system is being introduced at a time when some players are facing 30% cuts in their salaries.

Former Ireland and Munster player Keith Wood has said sports prices are expensive "across the board".