SRU sorry for Russell Snr sacking fall-out

SRU chiefs have made an unprecedented apology for the ‘cloud’ hanging over Scottish rugby caused by their actions.

Gregor Townsend’s Scotland team may have had a relatively successful season on the field but off it there has been turmoil within the corridors of power.

Outgoing president Rob Flockhart asked for forgiveness from clubs at the SRU AGM primarily for the fall-out from the sacking of Keith Russell — father of Scotland international Finn — who won an unfair dismissal claim at an employment tribunal.

They are currently trying to come to a compensation agreement with Russell, who was head of domestic rugby.

And it is expected he will walk away with a six-figure sum.

‘There’s been a cloud hanging over Scottish rugby,’ said Flockhart. ‘I apologise for the manner in which these matters transpired. We need to do better.’

SRU chief executive Mark Dodson, criticised by Russell for his role in the proceedings and the way he ran the governing body, made no mention or offered an apology for what happened in his speech to the AGM.

In a three-hour meeting, head coach Townsend told of his backing for a semi-professional ‘Super Six’ league due to be introduced the season after next which has caused controversy among amateur clubs who missed out on one of the franchises.

‘This is something that will help create a pathway for players coming into the professional level,’ said Townsend. ‘Players are coming through the system as never before and this is an exciting franchise system.’

Meanwhile, Dee Bradbury has made history by becoming the first female president of the Scottish Rugby Union. She is also the first woman to hold the top role at a Tier-One rugby nation.

The now retired Strathclyde police officer takes over from Flockhart, who ended his twoyear tenure yesterday.

Bradbury, mother of Scotland international Magnus, is Honorary President of Oban Lorne RFC. She said: ‘There are a lot of things we are doing really well but we cannot afford to be complacent.’