WRU chairman Davies in firing line

WRU chairman Gareth Davies and chief executive Martyn Phillips are to blame for the problems the game is facing in Wales says Aberavon Harlequins secretary Stuart Broad.

Davies has again come under fire when he is trying to secure the trust of Wales’ 320 member clubs in a bid to win a third term as a National Council representative.

He has also asked to change the governance rules he implemented to bid for a third stint as chair.

Aberavon Harlequins – one of the 34 clubs to propose an emergency general meeting over their unhappiness with the WRU’s governance – have now rescinded that request.

In a remarkable letter seen by TRP, Broad has hit out at Davies’ attempt to remain in power. He writes: “The general consensus is to rescind the requisition to convene an EGM in favour of utilising this year’s AGM as a platform for debate.

“I would also like to express our concerns as a club that Gareth Davies is seeking to circumnavigate the rule book and extend his term as WRU chairman.

“I firmly believe many of the problems being experienced throughout Welsh rugby at present are sourced straight to the top. Since Davies became chairman and Martyn Phillips CEO, the top end of the game has indeed experienced record profits. One other record they are perhaps not so boastful about is the fact a record amount of community clubs in Wales have been forced to fold.

“I do solemnly believe if Gareth Davies is successful in his attempt to retain his position at the helm of Welsh rugby, it would be disastrous for the community game as a whole.

“Aberavon Harlequins

RFC will be supporting Ieaun Evans’ campaign to join the National Council and therefore stop Gareth Davies in his tracks.”

Davies is being rivalled for his WRU Council seat by both wing great Evans and former Wales coach Nigel Davies. Both Evans and Nigel Davies lost out to John Manders in the last Council election to replace another former Wales international, Mark Taylor.