THE four professional rugby teams in Wales face a player exodus as they wait to find out their budgets for next season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As it stands, the sides are unable to offer new deals to players who go out of contract at the end of the season or bolster their squad through new signings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Supporters have called for WRU chief executive Steve Phillips, already involved a controversy over alleged misogyny at the organisation, to stand down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Usually at this time of year, contract renewals and signings are being announced in preparation for next season, but the WRU is yet to agree funding with the sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Professional clubs throughout Europe have begun announcing signings and contract renewals, leaving Welsh teams behind, and leading to fears of a mass player exodus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ospreys\u2019 Nicky Smith and Cardiff\u2019s Max Llewellyn have been heavily linked with moves to clubs in England\u2019s Gallagher Premiership while Dragons skipper, Will Rowlands, has reportedly agreed a deal with French giants Racing 92.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The regions are powerless to stop players from leaving. It is feared up to 15 Wales internationals may leave for pastures new in the summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe most damaging thing the WRU does to the four professional teams – and this has been going on for a very long time – is create a situation of complete instability and uncertainty,\u201d said Steve Coombs, a member of the CF10 board \u2013 a supporters trust for Cardiff Rugby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe’re seeing the natural extension of that where not only can teams not plan long or medium term, they can\u2019t even plan for a few months’ time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s disgraceful. It\u2019s an abhorrent way to treat people. We salute the players and all employees for continuing to work under this uncertainty.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n