🏉 Exciting times for Welsh rugby! 🏉
Former Wales star, Tom Shanklin, has shared his vision to boost the future of Welsh rugby, tackling what he describes as a major misconception. With the Welsh Rugby Union reconsidering a plan to cut the number of regions in half, Shanklin believes a solid path forward involves sustaining all four regions instead of merging teams.
🛡️ Shanklin’s Standpoint: According to the 70-cap legend, combining regions won’t magically lead to league dominance. “If you merge Burnley and Birmingham, you’re not getting Liverpool,” he comments, suggesting that cutting teams could limit opportunities for young players.
🏆 The Road Ahead: Shanklin argues for the importance of maintaining four professional teams to create a clear path for young talent. While acknowledging the current challenges, he emphasises investing in academies for players as young as 14. “The system is broken,” he states, and shifting focus to developing players could be the key.
🔥 Super Rygbi Cymru comes to light! Both Shanklin and fellow rugby pundit Sam Warburton agree that improving the quality of Super Rygbi Cymru is essential, with Warburton pointing to New Zealand’s strong performance as an inspiration.
💡 Shanklin’s ultimate goal? To ensure that players aged 19-21 have a chance to shine in top-tier rugby. He believes nurturing talent from a young age is necessary for the nation to climb back to the top.
Here’s to the next chapter in Welsh rugby! 🏉🇽🇼 What are your thoughts on Shanklin’s proposals? Could this be the turnaround we need? Let us know below! ⬇️