Franchising The Future

By Lestyn
January 23 2003

With the club's 5 team plan dead in the water today, it comes as little surprise that Moffett has pushed His plan forward, expectantly gaining support from the WRU's board of the directors. It would now only take a majority vote from the member clubs at an EGM in a month's time to force it through.

The union have invited bid's for the franchises which will be based in the east, south, south-west and west.

The four regional franchises will be selected by tender," Moffett said.

"The premier clubs have been unable to agree a way forward, but there has to be change.

"We will be looking at a whole range of issues in developing the franchise document, and we are looking for all clubs in the respective regions to participate in the running of the franchises.

"We are trying to create here a true partnership with the Welsh Rugby Union - all 239 clubs, not two, three or nine."

The Welsh Premiership club's still believe they can come up with a new plan by the time of the EGM which is set in true WRU style the day after the England match, on Sunday the 23rd of February.

I wouldn't hold Your breath on the Premiership club's coming up with anything, as the plan more or less fit's the bill where a Ebbw Vale & Newport Gwent entity is concerned. The same could be said about Neath & Bridgend filling the South-West franchise.

Union chairman Glanmor "You know who" Griffiths was quick to lavish praise on the plan;

"a positive step forward in the best interests of Welsh rugby."

Which could mean anything quite frankly.

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