Wales players are considering the prospect of unprecedented strike action ahead of next weekend’s crunch clash with England as contractual chaos engulfs the country’s national game.
According tot he Mail Online, Wales players are seriously considering strike action ahead of their Six Nations game with their biggest rivals in doubt.
WRU and the country’s four regions have been unable to agree budgetary deal, meaning players have been unavailable to sign new deals.
“I can’t believe I’m five months away from the end of my contract and eight months away from the World Cup and my future isn’t certain yet,” revealed a Wales international.
“I can’t apply for a mortgage and I’m on antidepressants.
“I’m also one big injury away from not having a job in July yet I’m starting for Wales every week and the WRU is making tens of millions from international matches.”
EDITORS PICKS:
- Team of the Week: Dupont, Willis and Russell shine in Round 2
- “Overkicking” – Sir Clive Woodward driven ‘nuts’ by Owen Farrell
- England player ratings vs Italy: 2023 Six Nations
- Liam Williams could quit Wales following pay dispute
- Another England international signs with Montpellier
Three England changes Steve Borthwick ‘should’ make for Wales clash
With still work to do for the New England boss, we look at three changes he could make to face Wales in a fortnight’s time.
Borthwick’s men travel to Cardiff in their next game on 25 February, after next weekend’s break, as the Azzurri host world number one side Ireland earlier on the same day.
POSSIBLE ENGLAND CHANGES:
#1. Marcus Smith for Owen Farrell
RUCK 6/10: “There was a lot of kicking from the England 10 and not much of it was good; either from hand or the tee. However, his overall performance improved significantly when he played in his preferred position.”
Andy Goode wrote on Twitter: “Steve Borthwick talks relentlessly about excitement and exciting the crowd, there’s zero excitement at Twickers Borthers, get Marcus Smith on please.”
Planet Rugby 5/10: “Relished being in the driving seat as he backed his team-mates regularly early on, going to the corner which paid off in tries. Perhaps over-kicked in the red zone as the jury remains out on who should start at fly-half.”