Players to be offered 'conditional contracts' in Wales

Amid fears of a player exodus in Wales, the Professional Rugby Board has confirmed that negotiations will begin in the new year on a ‘conditional basis’ following a meeting with the Welsh Rugby Players Association.

With contract negotiations frozen in the Welsh regions at the moment due to funding issues, the Dragons have already seen Wales lock Will Rowlands confirm his departure at the end of the season, and the worry is that many more will follow suit.

But the PRB revealed in a statement today that following the verbal agreement over funding that has been made, conditional contracts will be offered to players in the intervening time before the agreement is formalised and is signed by all parties.

This verbal agreement involves a “six-year-framework which details significantly enhanced WRU funding expectations from distributable monies, club commercial performance, URC media rights, new debt and shareholder investment.”

The PRB also expressed their regret over the “concern” caused amongst “player, their agents, and supporters” during this ordeal.

The statement reads: “The PRB understands delays in reaching verbal agreement and the time required to process legal documentation have prevented the Regions from contracting some players for future seasons.

“The concern caused amongst players, their agents, and supporters is hugely regrettable, but it is important that this is done correctly.

“This is why we aim to offer conditional contracts, giving players details of their individual offer. Further updates on this initiative will be provided to the WRPA next week.

“There is still much to do, but the PRB will continue to work together with the WRPA for the benefit of all parties.”

These look to be promising signs for Welsh rugby both on and off the pitch going into the new year. Obviously the major change going into 2023 is the return of Warren Gatland at the helm of the national team, but there seems to be progress off the pitch as well.