Ospreys 'very positive' about outcome of WRU shake-up

Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley joined in January 2024

The Ospreys "remain very positive" about their future despite the prospect of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) cutting at least one of the nation's professional teams.

The governing body has entered a formal consultation period for the professional game that could see the top tier of the domestic game reduced from four to three or two clubs.

Ospreys, Scarlets, Dragons and Cardiff are preparing for the start of the United Rugby Championship at the end of September and a final decision is expected from the WRU in October.

The western duo opted against signing a new five-year professional rugby agreement because of concerns over the WRU taking over Cardiff when they went into administration in April.

'Uncertainty and concern'

Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley attempted to reassure supporters in an update.

"I am obviously aware there is a considerable level of uncertainty and concern about the situation with the WRU, especially following their recent announcement about another review into the game," said Bradley.

"I can't give much of an update on that, other than we are part of that review and we are very much talking to the WRU. I still remain very positive about a good outcome for us."

The Ospreys have left the Swansea.com Stadium and Bradley said there had been "no significant objections" to their planning permission application for the redeveloped St Helen's.

A decision is expected this month and the region's plan is to start building in September once Swansea's cricket season is over.

The Ospreys have announced a pre-season friendly against Exeter Chiefs at Bridgend's Brewery Field on Saturday, 6 September (14:30 BST).

Mark Jones' side start their URC campaign at the Bulls on 27 September and remain in South Africa to face the Stormers before a planned first home fixture against Zebre in round three at a venue that is yet to be confirmed.