Welsh Rugby Union defends plans to halve number of professional men's teams

The Welsh Rugby Union has recognised the "hurt and anger" caused by their proposal to reduce the number of professional men's sides in Wales from four to two. Pic: Ben Birchall/PA Wire.

The Welsh Rugby Union has recognised the "hurt and anger" caused by their proposal to reduce the number of professional men's sides in Wales from four to two, but insisted maintaining the status quo is not the "right thing" to do.

Welsh rugby's governing body has produced a radical plan to turn around the the game at both club and international level, outlining its ambitions in a 90-page consultation document entitled 'The Future of Elite Rugby in Wales'.