Why Wales v England Six Nations match is in doubt as players consider strike action

England's next Six Nations match against Wales has been plunged into doubt after it was suggested that a number of Welsh players are reportedly considering strike action over contract issues.

The clash is scheduled to take place at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, however, it now appears to be under threat as the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has been unable to bring a freeze to contract negotiations to a halt, leaving many players in limbo over their futures in the sport.

The under-fire WRU remains locked in negotiations with the country's four regions - Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets - and are still all yet to come to an agreement that would resolve issues over funding for Wales players' contracts, which has brought about the current freeze.

As it stands, the basic wage of a Welsh rugby player is expected to decrease over the next couple of seasons under a new deal. £280,000 will be the highest a player can be offered, which in comparison to other elite rugby players, is considerably lower than the £400,000 some earn.

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The situation is so far out of hand that according to reports the Welsh squad is pondering a strike against the WRU over the matter.

This could see England's match being called off at the last minute. One member of Warren Gatland's squad is even reportedly on antidepressants over the dispute, having also missed out on a mortgage due to the ongoing pay crisis.

Speaking to MailOnline, the unnamed player, who plays in England and has featured in Wales' two Six Nations matches against Ireland and Scotland, said: "I can’t believe I’m five months away from the end of my contract and eight