WRU considers cutting up to two regional teams

The Welsh Rugby Union is considering halving the number of regions in Wales as part of a new domestic structure by the 2027-28 season.

The governing body says it is entering a formal consultation with the Professional Rugby Board (PRB) and could reduce the number of regions to three or even two.

In a statement, the WRU said the current system is failing and is unsustainable, having already confirmed it does not intend to continue equally funding four professional teams in the men's game.

The shake-up comes after the men's side suffered its worst season with nine defeats in 10 games that drew a total losing sequence of 18 matches, a sequence that only ended last weekend with a 31-22 victory in the second Test against Japan.

The WRU wants the strategy to be completed by October.

More to follow.