The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is in talks with the four regions over a new pay structure for the 2021-22 season.
Hewitt, who represents the interests of Wales’ professional players, said he was “very concerned” about the potential impact of the cuts.
“I think it’s inevitable that some players will have to leave Wales if they are offered significant pay cuts,” he said. “It’s a difficult situation for players and their families. We are doing our best to ensure that any changes are fair and equitable.”
The WRU has said it is looking to reduce costs in the professional game and has proposed a new pay structure which would see players’ wages cut by up to 25%.
The four regions – Cardiff Blues, Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons – have been in talks with the WRU over the new deal and are expected to make an announcement this week.
Ashton Hewitt, chair of the Welsh Rugby Players Association, has expressed his concern over the potential impact of the proposed pay cuts on professional players in Wales. He believes that some players may be forced to leave the country if they are offered significant reductions in salary.
Hewitt has stated that the WRU is looking to reduce costs in the professional game and has proposed a new pay structure which could see players’ wages cut by up to 25%. The four regions – Cardiff Blues, Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons – have been in discussions with the WRU over the new deal and are expected to make an announcement this week.
The WRPA chair is doing his best to ensure that any changes are fair and equitable for all players. He is hoping that the WRU will take into account the financial implications of any pay cuts on players and their families.
Hewitt has urged the WRU to consider the long-term effects of any pay cuts on Welsh rugby, warning that if players are not adequately compensated for their efforts, they may be forced to seek opportunities elsewhere. He believes that this could have a detrimental effect on the future of Welsh rugby and has urged the WRU to take a more balanced approach.
It remains to be seen what decision will be made by the WRU and the four regions this week. However, it is clear that Ashton Hewitt is doing all he can to ensure that any changes are fair and equitable for all players. He is hoping that the WRU will take into account the financial implications of any pay cuts on players and their families, as well as the long-term effects on Welsh rugby.