Pay bands look set to strike the wrong chord with players

A growing number of players are angry over the pay-banding system set to be introduced in Welsh rugby, with some even talking of potential strike action, WalesOnline can reveal.

The aim of the proposed structure is to control wage inflation in the regional game.

But some players believe there has been a lack of consultation and planning behind an arrangement that would effectively cap how much money they take home.

It is understood the suggested system, which the Welsh Rugby Union and regions are discussing, would run roughly along the following lines.

■ Regional players who don’t play international rugby could earn between £25,000 and £110,000.

■ New internationals may earn between £110,000 and £190,000.

■ A band has yet to be agreed for players who make Wales squads without featuring regularly in starting line-ups. ■ Regulars in Test matchday squads could take home between £180,000 and £300,000.

■ Lions players could earn between £250,000 and £450,000.

There is also set to be a band for academy youngsters.

The final figures of the scheme have still to be finalised, so it may be that players will be placated.

But the mood among some is said to be militant and it is understood a number who could lose out significantly are willing to contemplate strike action to head off potential pay cuts.

They argue that injuries might prevent a player from gaining a place in a higher band or put him at the bottom instead of the top of a certain grade.

They also point out that a player’s value can change quickly in rugby and there doesn’t appear adequate provision for such an outcome.

And they add that players in certain positions might be paid less regardless of quality.

“The top salaries will go to big locks, powerful-scrummaging tight-heads and fly-halves who kick goals and run games,” said a source.

“But others could miss out significantly. It’s hard to see how it’s going to work out.

“Players have sought independent legal advice and what’s come back is that this is potentially a restraint of trade.

Disagreements over which band a player should be placed in are likely to be resolved by a panel.

It is believed some feel so strongly about the proposals that they have spoken about striking, even while hoping it will not come to that.

The perceived lack of consultation has also vexed a number of them, though it is believed the Welsh Rugby Players Association did meet with the Welsh Rugby Union last week.

A Welsh Rugby Union spokesperson said: “Negotiations around Project Reset are ongoing.

“Negotiations will not be conducted in the public arena, but please rest assured that all relevant parties are being fully consulted during the process.

“Once any conclusions are reached a full explanation of the project will be made directly available to all quarters of the rugby family.”