Former Wales rugby captain, Sam Warburton, has released a comprehensive manifesto outlining his vision for Welsh rugby post-Warren Gatland era. With the recent departure of Warren Gatland as head coach, after a challenging run of 14 consecutive test match defeats and a lacklustre start to the Six Nations, Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt has stepped in as the new interim boss for the remainder of the Championship.
In a column for The Times, Warburton, who holds Gatland in high regard as one of the best coaches he has worked with, acknowledged the necessity for a change in leadership. While he welcomed Sherratt’s appointment, Warburton highlighted that simply changing the coach is a “superficial fix” and does not address the underlying issues plaguing Welsh rugby.
The former Wales captain expressed concerns about player development and participation within Wales and proposed a strategic plan to address these challenges. While advocating for a reduction in the number of regions in the past, Warburton acknowledged the WRU’s commitment to sustaining four professional sides. He suggested a ‘two plus two’ funding model to ensure competitive balance among the regions based on performance, infrastructure, and player production.
Warburton also proposed the option of merging regions into East and West divisions, with the potential addition of a third North Wales region. By creating three ‘super regions’, he believes Welsh rugby could thrive in competitions like the Anglo-Welsh league or the URC, with a focus on nurturing a core group of national-level players.
Looking beyond professional rugby, Warburton emphasised the need for clubs to become self-reliant and advocated for WRU support in the form of workshops, coach training, and guidance on revenue generation for sustainability. He suggested tiered funding based on club success and operations, promoting a culture of excellence at all levels of Welsh rugby.
In a call to action for the Welsh Government, Warburton urged for rugby to be integrated into every school curriculum across Wales to reignite grassroots participation and talent development. He pointed out the broader benefits for local clubs, regions, and the national team, underscoring the need for a concerted effort to revitalise Welsh rugby from the grassroots up.
Warburton’s manifesto provides a strategic roadmap for the Welsh Rugby Union to navigate the post-Gatland era and address systemic challenges for long-term success. His vision encompasses a holistic approach, from elite player development to grassroots engagement, aiming to restore Welsh rugby to its former glory through sustainable and inclusive practices.