Welsh rugby is facing one of its toughest periods in history, with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) taking full responsibility for the team's unprecedented decline. Abi Tierney, the CEO of WRU, has openly acknowledged the governing body's role in the current crisis, describing the situation as "devastating."

The Record Defeat

Wales recently suffered their worst home defeat in history, losing 68-14 to England in the Six Nations. This loss marks the 17th consecutive defeat for the Welsh team, a record that has left fans and players disheartened. Tierney admitted that the players had been let down by the administration, emphasizing that the blame lies squarely with the WRU.

Commitment to Change

Despite the challenges, Tierney remains committed to turning the situation around. She has vowed to continue her efforts despite facing personal abuse and criticism. Tierney emphasized that the WRU is working on immediate changes, including the appointment of a new director of rugby and a permanent head coach. The union is also finalizing a deal to support the four Welsh regions, aiming to stabilize the domestic game.

The Long Road Ahead

Tierney acknowledged that fixing Welsh rugby will take time, as the issues have been building for years. She highlighted the importance of creating a system that nurtures young talent and ensures that the national team can compete at the highest level. The WRU has set an ambitious goal for Wales to break into the top five rugby nations by 2029, but achieving this will require significant reforms and investment.

The Four Regions Strategy

One of the key areas of focus is maintaining the four Welsh regions—Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, and Scarlets. While some have suggested reducing the number of regions to concentrate talent, Tierney believes that supporting all four is essential for the long-term growth of Welsh rugby. Increased funding and improved player pathways are part of the strategy to strengthen the domestic game.

A Personal Struggle

Leading the WRU has been the toughest challenge of Tierney's career. Despite the difficulties, she remains determined to see through the reforms necessary to revive Welsh rugby. Tierney expressed regret for not speaking publicly sooner after the historic defeat but emphasized the importance of sticking to agreed processes.

Looking Forward

As the WRU prepares for a new era, Tierney is focused on building trust with the regions and implementing a strategy that will have a lasting impact. The road ahead is long, but the commitment to change offers hope for the future of Welsh rugby.