Angry clubs set for showdown talks

Welsh Premiership clubs are set for showdown talks with WRU chief executive Roger Lewis.

A number of the clubs involved in the competition are said to be dissatisfied with how it is being run and the prospects for the future.

Funding is the main issue and Bridgend chairman Derrick King is adamant that more money needs to be injected into the league, instead of being invested elsewhere.

He commented, “I think it would be better for the WRU to fund the Premiership properly because the clubs know how to develop young talent.

Grassroots Welsh rugby gets boost

A £250,000 grant has been secured by the WRU to invest into grassroots Welsh rugby.

The Foundation for Sports and Arts has provided the money and it is hoped that the cash will be used by clubs to improve facilities.

WRU Chief Executive Roger Lewis commented, “Grassroots rugby clubs are the heart and soul of the game in Wales. That’s why we are delighted with the level of support we have received from the Foundation of Sports and Arts and that’s why the WRU is prepared to invest so much into the community game.”

Ospreys hooker to miss season opener

Richard Hibbard has undergone surgery on his right shoulder and will miss the start of the new season.

The 24-year-old Welsh hooker will definitely miss the first game of the campaign against Connacht and could be absent for further matches.

However, Osprey’s team physio Chris Towers is optimistic on his condition commenting, “We’ll assess his situation closely and will be in a better position to predict his return in a couple of weeks.”

He added, “The early signs are excellent and the shoulder is settling well.”

Henson out until September

Gavin Henson is likely to miss the start of the season after Ospreys revealed that the centre is likely to be out of action until the end of September.

The Welsh international underwent surgery on his ankle in April after suffering an injury against Saracens in the Heineken Cup.

Originally, Henson had been optimistic about his chances of making it back in time for the start of the new season, but now looks to have admitted defeat.

Gatland has faith in Welsh team

Wales coach Warren Gatland believes his Welsh side still have a lot to offer after their 2-0 series defeat to World Champions South Africa.

Gatland pointed to improved performances over the two matches against the Springboks as reason enough to hope for better things in the future.

He commented, “The guys realise that with some hard work on and off the pitch we can continue to close the gap and that’s desperately what we want to do.”

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