Want to play for Wales? then play in Wales!

No doubt this will give Mr Gatland far more time with his players and flexibility between the regions and the national team, ensure the best players stay in Wales whilst their interested in international rugby and ensures a competitive nature throughout the regional system, but this raises a whole host of other issues...

Will this mean we have too small a player base by only being able to choose from 4 teams? Will it create the basis for a Magners 'A' league? Will players retire from International rugby early...a la New Zealand? Will overseas teams simply outbid the Welsh regions on wages to effectively force players into international retirement and weaken our national side? The questions will keep coming.

What we can determine from this is that it's risky. If the WRU decide to implement this, all sorts of problems could become apparent with players leaving and Wales being in more trouble. It may work in New Zealand, but that's a different environment altogether in terms of how young players are brought through the system, the different cultures and the fact that they are in a far better position to challenge for major trophies with a system that enables youngsters to develop into stars far more effectively. The downside is of course, players leaving early to find bigger wages in order to fund their lengthy retirements.

The upside of course is that it could work for future development. If Wales are to become a rugby super-power, maybe its a risk like this that will breed the competitive culture where only the best can make it?

I'd rather see the WRU focus on supporting it's regions and creating a playing environment which is filled with competitiveness, discipline and gives the platform for a successful national team...