Alun Wyn Jones said it is hard to deny the possibility of the Wales players striking ahead of their Six Nations match against England.
Jone said: ““Ultimately, if you treat people badly for long enough, you get to where we find ourselves.
“Yes we want a voice as well and a discussion about scrapping the 60 cap rule.I think that’s come out so I’m comfortable in saying that. And obviously the fixed variable part of the contract.””
The former Wales skipper was widely praised for his leadership qualities during an intense press conference.
One fan wrote: “Alun Wyn Jones very articulate here and sums up the issues regarding player treatment.”
A second commented: “Alun Wyn Jones is someone I certainly wouldn’t want to piss off …”
A third said: “That’s what you call a leader. Gatland is so tine death.”
Alun Wyn Jones interview:
Gatland wouldn’t support strike
If his players were to decide to strike ahead of their Guinness Six Nations clash with England, Warren Gatland would not lend his support.
The Wales head coach revealed he wouldn’t support players striking against England, saying: “No.
“I completely support the stance that they’re taking in terms of wanting to get some resolution of the issues that they have, but I think there’s a lot more involved, a lot of things at stake in terms of ensuring that that fixture does take place.
“Like I’ve said, I’m supportive of the players and the things that they’re trying to do, and my role is just to prepare the team for next week.”
Gatland said he had “no idea” if one of his players was taking anti-depressants as a result of the situation amid reports that was the case, and insisted he would not expect to be informed of such confidential information by his medical staff.
He said: “Absolutely not. That would be a breach of confidentiality.”
SOCIAL REACTION:
One fan wrote: “So, Gatland doesn’t support his players then.”
A second said: “He’s always been a WRU stooge through the Roger Lewis stuff. His influence on focusing on Team Wales above all else is partially what has led us to this point.”
“Of course he wouldn’t, he’s not in touch with the Welsh game.” commented a third.
Another wrote: “Gats is a scab,”
“Absolute chancer.” said another.
A passionate fan added: “
What’s happening in Wales?
Next week, during a meeting of the organization representing professional players in Wales, the possibility of taking industrial action will be discussed.
The proposed walk-out would require the support of prominent and well-known players from Wales to address issues that are of greater concern to players in the middle ranks.
Around 70 players – including some current Wales Six Nations squad members – are out of contract at the end of the 2022-23 season with no renewals being offered..
Wales face England on Saturday, 25 February.
How much money would the WRU lose?
Approx £8.1m according to Wales Online.
What happens if Six Nations match is cancelled?
In the case a match is cancelled, it’s likely a Six Nations panel will be convened to determine the allocation of points and a further announcement would be made shortly after.
If it operates similar to the Premiership, England would likely be awarded a win without a bonus-point with Wales receiving nothing.
The WRU could also be fined for not meeting their obligations by broadcasters and sponsors.
Graded: Every Six Nations Team After the First Two Weeks
The first two rounds of the 2023 Guinness Six Nations have been wrapped up, with Ireland and Scotland recording two wins from two matches. England and France both secured one win and also suffered one loss, with Wales and Italy yet to find a win. So, here are RUCK’s grades for each side, after the first two weeks of the competition.
Ireland – A*
World Rugby’s Number One ranked side have certainly been meeting expectations so far in the Six Nations. Ireland began their campaign strongly, with a 10-34 away win in Cardiff. Wales were a beaten side after just 25 minutes, with first half tries from Caelan Doris, James Ryan and James Lowe. 12 additional first half points from the boot of Jonny Sexton established a healthy first half lead, which Ireland built upon in the second 40 minutes.
Hints of a Welsh comeback never fully took off, despite their best attempts. Liam Williams found a break-through scoring Wales’ consolation try, yet Ireland were just far too dominant in the collision. Ireland’s second round fixture against France was seen by many as an early Six Nations decider. Andy Farrell’s men were not fazed by the grand occasion and took the fight directly to France. Les Bleus were still stunned from narrowly avoiding defeat to Italy, and were eventually overrun by the likes of Garry Ringrose, Hugo Keenan and a dramatic photo-finish try from James Lowe.
Ireland look unbeatable, and are on track to win the Grand Slam, and an upcoming first ever Rugby World Cup.
France – C
The reigning Six Nations Champions entered this years’ competition with high expectations, and as joint favourites along with Ireland. However, France have not had the straight-forward path to back-to-back titles that they were hoping for, as they were taken to the wire by Italy, and beaten by Ireland in a thriller at the Aviva.
There has been sparks of the famed ‘jouer’ flair, with Damian Penaud’s stunning try against Ireland being replayed time and again. Antoine Dupont has been pulling off a reserved version of his usual tricks, as France are not playing with the same confidence and swagger which beat South Africa and New Zealand last Autumn. Italy should have beaten France, and deep down Fabien Galthie and his men know that it was a lucky escape. The match against the ‘Azzurri’ left France in shock, and they will need to bounce back from Irish defeat if they want to salvage this Six Nations.
Humbled by Italy and overrun by Ireland, France need to re-find their top form to finish strong in the coming weeks.