Welsh rugby down the pan?

Amph

I have an interest let's say, in Pontypool RFC. They've been royally screwed over by the wru on a number of occasions. Recently became aware of IWRTV got to watch some highlights of one of their games. I don't get to travel back to Torfaen very often so was very happy with that little find. Then suddenly it's taken away. Despicable behaviour from the people in power at BBC WALES (?) and another example of preferential treatment against the "smaller" clubs.

BT Bob

Amph - I know the guys behind IWRTV, though I have no commercial interest in their operation.

They're first and foremost genuine rugby fans, who have become frustrated with Welsh rugby, seen an opportunity and been able to express their views as well as provide some much-needed coverage for grassroots rugby.

I think they've done a great job - well, they've done enough to rattle the cages of the powers-that-be.... and shown that the relationship between the WRU & the broadcasters (especially BBC Wales) is less than healthy.

Amph

The show I watched was very good. Considering their understandably low budget it was incisive and took a decent look at the lower leagues. The thing is, there aren't a lot of tiers in Welsh rugby, so to effectively cut-off public access to rugby that's only 1/2 divisions down from the top, is criminal. Going to match days is of course the best option but is not always possible and grass roots needs the most exposure right now.

BT Bob

The BT Sport deal could have huge ramifications for RRW and the WRU.

The unity of the 4 regions in negotiating the deal with BTS flies in the face of everything that's gone before, and introduces a whole new funding stream directly to the regions, which can only be a good thing.

The fact that the Rabo games next year will be on Sky who'll have to show the Scots & now Welsh teams with their main competitor's name emblazoned over the shirts, not to mention having to use the name "BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park" when they televise Blues home games is a genius piece of strategy.

BT Bob

So enough of the the affiliated Clubs and the 4 Regions have got their act together and gained agreement from the WRU for an EGM. I wouldn't be surprised if a vote of no confidence in Lewis & Pickering is the result.