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The controversial plans that aim to shake up Welsh rugby

Ospreys and Scarlets are two of the teams whose future is unclear (Nick Potts/PA) — Ospreys and Scarlets are two of the teams whose future is unclear (Nick Potts/PA) (PA Wire)

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has proposed a radical plan to reduce the number of professional men's rugby sides in Wales from four to two; namely Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets.
This proposal is part of a 90-page consultation document titled The Future of Elite Rugby in Wales, aiming to revitalise the sport at both club and international levels.
WRU chief executive Abi Tierney acknowledged the “hurt and anger” caused by the plan but insisted that maintaining the current status quo is not sustainable.
A six-week consultation period will precede a final decision, with the WRU also suggesting the creation of a national rugby campus.
The WRU chairman, Richard Collier-Keywood, noted the potential for 'two or three areas of potential legal challenge' from regions affected by the proposed changes.

Welsh Rugby Union defends plans to halve number of professional men’s teams — In full