Wales seek Rabo invite

By BILL LOTHIAN
Published on 08/08/2012 12:00

Scotland rugby bosses may soon be asked to consider, along with Irish and Italian colleagues, a bid to increase Wales’ participation in the Rabo Direct league perhaps from next 
season.

A group of businessmen, politicians and ex-international captain Michael Owen are keen to establish a “Valleys” team based at Pontypridd and a meeting of the Welsh Rugby Union is planned on September 7.

Investment is being sought, including a minimum £1.2 million from the WRU, and the plan would need support from the four existing Welsh regions especially if their central funding has to be cut at a time when there is an on-going review into the financial viability of professional rugby in Wales.

Michael Owen says: “The future of rugby in Wales cannot be dictated by financial considerations alone.

“Rugby is a part of our heritage and our communities.”