Why this merger just might be the way to go

ANOTHER day in Welsh rugby and another potential drama emerges. They always say the close season is the ‘silly season’ for stories, but I’m not sure which end of the scale I’d place the suggestion of a potential merger between Cardiff and the Ospreys.

- SHANE WILLIAMS

You’d have to say it has come out of left field to hear that initial talks had been held. But if you peel away any emotional attachment and examine in the cold light of day the facts, figures and finances behind any such move, the picture changes.

Regional rugby is still going through death by a thousand cuts despite the recent signing of a new six-year agreement with the WRU. And what happened last season in the Gallagher Premiership with the loss of three teams serves as a warning to everyone that even a team like Wasps can go bust and bang.

Mergers have been muted before in Welsh rugby and the real question is how many teams can the game support? It used to be five, then it was four and now it could be three. Will that be enough to sustain a professional game that can support an aspirational national side?

I don’t think the number of regions is the biggest concern. They only have two in both Italy and Scotland and there are four in Australia. Any reduction in the number of regions will naturally cost jobs in the playing and coaching sectors but should lead to more competitive teams.

That can only be a good thing, although as long as the needs of the national team are given priority over everything and everyone else it will be virtually impossible for any region to chase their dream of URC and European glory.