‘Another historic day’: WRU clubs vote overwhelmingly for reform at meeting

Welsh Rugby Union clubs voted overwhelmingly in favour of governance reforms at an extraordinary general meeting on Sunday. Of the 252 votes cast, only seven did not vote in favour, meaning the required 75% majority was comfortably exceeded.

The WRU will now appoint an independent non-executive director (INED) as chair and recruit two further new INEDs to its 12-person board, doubling the number of independent representatives to six, with the aim of ensuring at least five directors are women.

The interim chief executive, Nigel Walker, said: “This is just the beginning of a journey which will see the trust and faith of a nation in Welsh rugby restored and revitalised.”

The governing body faced allegations of sexism and misogyny after a BBC Wales investigation as well as accusations of racism and homophobia, with Walker’s predecessor Steve Phillips resigning amid criticism of the WRU’s handling of those allegations.

Previous attempts at instigating similar changes did not meet with sufficient approval from clubs but WRU officials pushed heavily for a positive result this time, arguing that another failure could have serious repercussions.

“I’m delighted with the support members have shown for the board’s recommendation today,” said the WRU chair, Ireuan Evans. “We now have a line in the sand from which we intend to move forward purposefully, swiftly and better prepared to serve Welsh rugby’s needs. This is another historic day in the 142-year history of the WRU.

“From this moment on we will be much better equipped to overcome any challenges we may face and I thank all members for giving us the tools to do a better job on their behalf. The repercussions of a positive vote today are nothing short of momentous and I am