'Pivotal' deal will benefit young Premiership talent

Premiership Rugby Academy players will be guaranteed a minimum wage from the start of the 2025/26 season following a landmark agreement between the Rugby Players’ Association (RPA) and Premiership Rugby, which has been approved by the Professional Game Board.

Previously wages varied from club to club but from now on, academy players will receive two-year, fixed-term ‘rookie’ wages split into two categories.

Under 19 Academy players will receive £18,200 per annum, while Under 20s will be paid £20,200. Once a player plays in eight Premiership or European matches the club can top up these wages.

The introduction of fair baseline wages for Academy players was a major part of Christian Day’s manifesto to be elected as General Secretary of the RPA and the former England Saxons lock is delighted to have got the deal over the line.

“We are delighted to complete this vital piece of work in collaboration with Premiership Rugby,” he said.

“One of the key targets for the RPA in becoming signatories to the Professional Game Partnership was to ensure that all full-time young players had the opportunity to perform at their best on the field of play by receiving the security of a fair baseline of financial income off it.

“The introduction of these Rookie wages alongside the advancement of other contractual regulations will help ensure that young players in England have the best opportunity possible to reach their potential.”

Now retired Gloucester player and former RPA Vice Chair, Harry Elrington, was another big driving force behind the initiative which provides greater financial security to the next generation of elite players.

He said: “The introduction of a new Premiership Rookie Fixed Academy Wage marks a pivotal moment for young players entering the game. These will have a positive impact throughout the league with the reassurance that all full-time players progressing through the academy system will receive a level of pay that allows them to focus on their rugby and development.”

The new deal will benefit many of the players on show at this Sunday’s Premiership Rugby U18s Academy Final Day 2025, at Kingsholm Stadium. Northampton Saints take on Bath in a repeat of the 2024 Gallagher Premiership Final, with the showpiece match kicking off at 7.05 pm. Entry to the match is free.