The future of the Worcester rugby club has come into question once again, despite the recent takeover by the Atlas Group.
Reports suggest that Atlas took a loan of £1.15 million from Wasps owner Chris Holland to complete their purchase of the club, but the loan is only for 21 days.
If Atlas fails to repay the loan within the given period, Wasps will withdraw from playing at Worcester’s former Sixways home and seek to relocate to the National League football club Solihull Moors.
This would result in the likely sale of Sixways for land value and the official end of Worcester rugby club, effectively rendering the Atlas takeover irrelevant. This situation has understandably caused concern among fans of the club who were hoping for a new era under the ownership of Atlas.
It is currently unclear why Atlas had to borrow such a significant amount to meet the Rugby Football Union’s deadline for completing the purchase of Worcester.
However, it is worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the financial stability of many sports clubs. The rugby world has not been immune to these challenges, and it is possible that this has played a role in the financial situation of Worcester rugby club.
The success of the Atlas takeover now rests on their ability to repay the loan within the given timeframe. Failure to do so would mean the end of the club, which would be a significant blow to the rugby community and the city of Worcester. Fans will be watching this situation closely in the coming weeks to see how it unfolds and what the future holds for the club.
England have three options to replace Steve Borthwick in case of World Cup disaster
Steve Borthwick has had to face tough questions already during his short reign as England’s preparation for the 2023 Rugby World Cup continues.
A troubling run of form leading up to the World Cup could spell the end if the them en in white don’t come up with the goods at the tournament proper.
RUCK takes you through three coaches who could be sought out if Borthwick is given his marching orders after leading the nation to France…
Rob Baxter
Rob Baxter, who guided the Devon-based club from the Championship to European champions in 10 years has done this largely with a core of players that have come through the academy at Exeter.
With this season’s club performance not at the level of previous years, it may be time for him to move on and into the Test game in the near futuree.
Although Baxter joined the England coaching team for the summer tour to Argentina and Uruguay in March 2013, he has no experience outside of Exeter. “I would be happy to have a chat about what the role is, how they see it working and what their plans and ambitions are,” Baxter said of the England job back in December.
“Unless you know what it is, it’s hard to say yes or no to anything. At the same time, I’m not looking for another job! I’m very happy here,” he added.
