PRB ‘united in what is best’ forwelsh rugby after board throw out merger proposal

Welsh rugby will still be represented by the current four regions for the 2020-21 season after the Professional Rugby Board ruled out a merger.

The announcement means the Ospreys and Scarlets will not join forces and also puts the proposal to establish a team in north Wales on indefinite hold.

The PRB, which runs the Welsh professional game, declared it is “united in its pursuit of what is best” without outlining plans beyond next season.

The Scarlets and Ospreys both fiercely opposed the deeply unpopular merger idea, which was part of socalled Project Reset.

Under that blueprint the combined region in the west of the country, Cardiff Blues, the Dragons and a re-established side in north Wales would comprise the four professional teams.

It was set to be Welsh rugby’s biggest domestic shake-up since the inception of regional sides 16 years ago, but it faced immediate hostility. At a PRB meeting this week, the merger was taken off the table despite its previous support for the idea.

“It’s hoped the emotion generated by the exploration of merger options can now be translated into support for the professional Welsh teams, helping create a sustainable future for the game in Wales,” a PRB statement read.

“The PRB will ramp up consultation with stakeholders, including players, staff, fans, clubs, government, broadcasters and partners.”