Former Wales captain Sam Warburton has backed a potential strike from players as the ongoing pay dispute rumbles on.
The possible industrial action is an option to be raised next week at a meeting of the body representing professional players in Wales.
Wales face England on Saturday, 25 February.
Writing in his column for The Times, Warburton said: “I stand with every player in Wales, not only the top Test stars – they simply are not being valued
“I totally support the players and their threat to strike should some sensible agreement not be reached.
“If I was still playing, I would not sign these new contracts,
A number of players have now spoken out on social media about the impact of the uncertainty around the player contract situation.
Ospreys and Wales flanker Sam Cross tweeted: “It’s time players stood up for ourselves and the WRPA had a seat on the PRB allowing us to have a voice in our own futures and on how the game is run in Wales going forward.”
All Blacks legend Sonny Bill Williams has also shown his support to the Welsh players speaking out, tweeting: “Name me another “business” where the “employees” are treated this way. First NRL now the footy (rugby union) players up north are starting to stand up for their rights! Organisations are making 100s of millions of $ a year off the back of these players and this is how they’re treated.”
Sam Warburton dream team:
BACK-THREE:
- Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
- Winger: Bryan Habana (South Africa)
- Winger: Julian Savea (New Zealand)
CENTRE:
- Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
- Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
