Pat Lam warns reducing marquee players will impact up-and-coming English talent

Bristol director of rugby Pat Lam believes the production line of English talent will suffer from the decision to reduce the number of marquee players at each Gallagher Premiership club from two to one.

As part of a drive to reduce costs in the wake of the financial difficulties caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the salary cap has been cut by £1.4million to £5million from this season.

In addition, as of 2022-23 each club will only be able to retain one player whose wages fall outside the £5million ceiling once existing contracts have expired.

Lam has confirmed that the Bears’ prized assets Semi Radradra and Charles Piutau are tied to Ashton Gate for next term despite speculation that their marquee players might depart sooner.

The Bristol boss insists the influence of high-quality overseas players should no be underestimated.

“Both of them have been phenomenal since they’ve been here. They’ve been massive,” Lam said.

“People talk about them around the world and that puts a spotlight on the English Premiership. What they’ve done is have an impact on the guys here.

“All of those boys – Steven Luatua, John Afoa, ChrisVui we well – have had a massive impact on the guys around them and they’re English players and you’ll see them coming through.

“They get the chance to work with these guys, who help them as well. So there’s the impact on the next generation coming through and on the English qualified guys who learn off them.

“Every team has had marquee players and the purpose of them was to get the right person to not only help you on the field but also to help the competition and help those who are coming through.”

Radradra underlined his value when he crossed for a dynamic solo try in the 10-9 victory over Sale that gives