Devils Book Place At Finals Weekend
Rhodri Evans
Cardiff Devils completed a perfect weekend yesterday, by beating Coventry Blaze for the second time in 24 hours as they booked their place at the ELite Ice Hockey League play-off finals weekend.
Having beaten the Blaze 2-0 in Coventry in the first leg on Saturday, the Devils gave the partisan crowd no little entertainment on Sunday evening.
The Blaze came out of the blocks the faster, levelling the quarter-final tie on aggregate, thanks to goals from Jackson Cressey and Morten Jurgens.
Brad Shoonbaert respond to put the Devils back ahead but the home side were pegged back again as the score read 3-1 to Coventry on the night.
The Devils proved that they have the mentality of champions, though, scoring five answered goals in the final period.
Strikes from Cole Sanford, Sam Duggan, Zach O’Brien, and Joey Martin sealed the Devils spot at finals weekend in Nottingham.
They will face old foes the Belfast Giants in a one-off semi-final on Saturday 19th April before playing the winner of Nottingham Panthers and Sheffield Steelers the next day.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
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Hardy Back As Ospreys Name Squad For European Quarter-Final
Rhodri Evans
Wales scrumhalf Kieran Hardy returns to start for the Ospreys as they face Lyon in the EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final at the Swansea.com Stadium on Saturday.
Head coach Mark Jones has made just one change to the XV that beat local rivals Scarlets 36-14 last Sunday, with Hardy replacing Reuben Morgan-Williams who drops to the bench.
Morgan-Williams suffered a head knock against Scarlets and was replaced by Luke Davies, but is fit enough to make the Ospreys bench. Davies drops out of the 23 as a result.
Unchanged Pack
With a relatively clean bill of health, Jones has been able pick his strongest pack available. Wales internationals Gareth Thomas and Dewi Lake are joined in the front row by Tom Botha, while try-scoring duo Rhys Davies and Adam Beard pack down behind them.
A formidable back row of captain Jac Morgan, Justin Tipuric, and Morgan Morris continue, with the young tyro Morgan Morse providing the back up on the bench.
New signing George McGuigan is the replacement hooker, while youngsters Garyn Phillips, Ben Warren, and James Fender are the rest of the forward replacements.
In the back line, Dan Edwards continues at flyhalf, with Keiran Williams and Evardi Boshoff in the midfield. A scintillating back three of Keelan Giles, Daniel Kasende, and Jack Walsh offers no small amount of speed, guile, and strength.
Joining Morgan-Williams on the bench are versatile options Owen Williams and Iestyn Hopkins.
Teams
Ospreys
Jack Walsh; Dan Kasende, Evardi Boshoff, Keiran Williams, Keelan Giles; Dan Edwards, Kieran Hardy; Gareth Thomas, Dewi Lake, Tom Botha, Rhys Davies, Adam Beard, Jac Morgan (capt), Justin Tipuric, Morgan Morris.
Replacements:
George McGuigan, Garyn Phillips, Ben Warren, James Fender, Morgan Morse, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Owen Williams, Iestyn Hopkins.
Lyon
Alexandre Tchaptchet; Vincent Rattez, Josiah Maraku, Theo Millet, Ethan Dumortier; Leo Berdeu, Charlie Cassang; Wayan De Benedittis, Sam Matavesi, Hamza Kaabeche, Felix Lambey (capt), Alban Roussel, Steeve Blanc-Mappaz, Beka Shvangiradze, Maxime Gouzou.
Replacements:
Guillaume Marchand, Sebastien Taofifenua, Valentin Simutoga, Mickael Guillard, Theo William, Dylan Cretin, Baptiste Couilloud, Alfred Parisien.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
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Why Invest In The Stock Market For Long Term Gains?
Rhodri Evans
By Stuart d’Ivry, Managing Director of Pure Wealth Management
As interest rates begin to reduce and the outlook for the future is they will continue on this path many investors who have held money on Cash accounts are now considering alternatives. This month we look at the benefits of investing in the stock market.
Investing in the stock market for long-term gains can be a smart financial strategy for several reasons:
1. Compounding Returns
Long-term investing allows you to take advantage of compounding, where your earnings generate more earnings over time. This can lead to exponential growth in your portfolio versus a basic cash account.
2. Historically High Returns
Over long periods, the stock market has outperformed other asset classes like bonds, real estate, or savings accounts. The S&P 500, for example, has historically returned around 7-10% annually, adjusted for inflation. I must state here that past performance is no guarantee to the future returns on a portfolio, but the results and evidence is factual.
3. Hedge Against Inflation
Inflation erodes the value of cash over time. Shares, particularly those of growing companies, tend to rise in value and can protect purchasing power. This is a very important factor especially if you are investing for the medium/longterm.
4. Ownership in Businesses
When you invest in shares, you own a piece of a company. Over time, well-managed companies grow in value and profitability, benefiting long-term shareholders.
5. Reduced Risk Over Time
Short-term market fluctuations can be unpredictable, but historically, the longer you stay invested, the lower your chances of losing money. The stock market has always rebounded from crashes and corrections. Pure Wealth can discuss examples of this and over recent years with the impact of Covid 19 there is plenty of examples of how the stock market reacts to certain events.
6. Dividend Income
Many companies pay dividends, providing passive income in addition to stock appreciation. Reinvesting dividends can further accelerate portfolio growth.
7. Tax Advantages
Long-term capital gains taxes are typically lower than short-term income taxes. Holding shares for over a year can lead to lower tax liabilities. Whilst returns are important it it crucial this is evaluated as a “net” return to the client after all taxes. Pure wealth aim to ensure all clients invest in the most efficient way possible.
8. Diversification Opportunities
Investing in a mix of shares across industries and geographies spreads risk and enhances potential gains over time.
Don’t forget the Risks…
Investing in the stock market doesn’t come without risk and understanding them is crucial for making informed decisions. I would always recommend undertaking your research or ideally speaking with a professional before placing your money at risk.
So, who are Pure Wealth Management?
Pure Wealth are an independent financial advice practice offering holistic whole of market advice to individuals and businesses across South Wales. We are not tied to any company or provider and will work in partnership with our clients to offer bespoke financial planning typically on an ongoing basis.
Pure Wealth is part of the wider Pure Group which consists of specialists in other areas such as residential property, property investing, commercial property and development. This ensures that clients of the Pure Group have the peace of mind that they are receiving independent advice across all areas of their finances.
Should any of the readers require any advice or have any question in relation to mortgages or any other areas of their financial planning please get in touch mention Sportin Wales Magazine and we will ensure the first consultation is free of charge.
Contact 02922 671957
Email info@purewealthmanagement.co.uk
Investments can go down as well as up. You may not get back the original capital invested.
This article is for information purposes only and does not represent advice or recommendation to act.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
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Kayleigh Powell In As Wales Make One Change For France
Rhodri Evans
Wales have made one change to their squad as they prepare to face France in round three of the 2025 Women’s Six Nations, as Lleucu George is replaced at flyhalf by Kayleigh Powell.
With incumbent flyhalf George ruled out through injury, utility back Powell moves from inside centre into the main playmaking role. Filling the gap in the 12 jersey is Courtney Keight, who started the first two matches of the campaign on the bench and earns her first start.
Keight is partnered in midfield by captain Hannah Jones, while the rest of the back line in unchanged. Keira Bevan, Wales’s brightest player so far, retains her place at scrumhalf, while the back three from Carys Cox, Lisa Neumann, and Jasmine Joyce continue.
The forward pack is also unchanged with regular flankers Alex Callender and Alisha Butchers still out with a foot injury and virus respectively.
Replacing George in the squad is lock Natalia John, who comes in onto the bench in a re-jig. Up against a powerful French pack, Sean Lynn has opted for a 6-2 bench split.
Kelsey Jones, Maisie Davies, and Donna Rose provide the front row cover for starting trio Carys Phillips, Gwenllian Pyrs, and Jenni Scoble. John, Bryonie King, and teenage tyro Alaw Pyrs make up the rest of the forward cover.
Sian Jones replaces Meg Davies as the scrumhalf cover on the bench, and the versatile Nel Metcalfe wears the number 23 shirt.
‘Expecting a hostile crowd’
Wales travel away to France for the first time since their excellent losing performance in 2023, where despite losing 29-0 at halftime, they rallied to ‘win’ the second half 10-14 with tries from Phillips and Evans, who both start on Saturday.
“These players deserve another opportunity to represent the Wales family against one of the best sides in the world and we know we face a Test match in front of a hostile crowd in France,” said Lynn.
“The players, coaches and staff have put the fallow week to good use and worked hard to improve and hone our game. We know we can do better. Some aspects of our performance against England were not good enough and we are determined to put that right in France.
“We know France are a world class outfit but we have to challenge ourselves to match them.”
Despite a positive performance in Lynn’s first match in charge, Wales lost narrowly to Scotland – 24-21 – before welcoming England to the Principality Stadium a week later.
In front of a record crowd for a stand alone women’s sporting fixture, Wales lost 12-67 as their biggest rivals ran in 11 tries on a chastening afternoon.
Teams
Wales
Jasmine Joyce; Lisa Neumann, Hannah Jones (capt), Courtney Keight, Carys Cox; Kayleigh Powell, Keira Bevan; Gwenllian Pyrs, Carys Phillips, Jenni Scoble, Abbie Fleming, Gwen Crabb, Kate Williams, Bethan Lewis, Georgia Evans.
Replacements:
Kelsey Jones, Maisie Davies, Donna Rose, Natalia John, Alaw Pyrs, Bryonie King, Sian Jones, Nel Metcalfe.
France
Morgane Bourgeois; Kelly Arbey, Marine Menager (co-capt), Montserrat Amedee, Emilie Boulard; Carla Arbez, Pauline Bourdon-Sansus; Yllana Brosseau, Manon Bigot, Rose Bernadou, Manae Feleu (co-capt), Madouddou Fall-Raclot, Charlotte Escudero, Seraphine Okemba, Teani Feleu.
Replacements:
Elisa Riffonneau, Ambre Mwayembe, Assia Khalfaoui, Kiara Zago, Axelle Berthoumieu, Lea Champon, Oceane Bordes, Lina Queyroi.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
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Potential Job Losses As WRU Announces 'One Wales' Programme
Rhodri Evans
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has launched it’s ‘One Wales’ programme with the organisation admitting that a ‘small number’ of job losses will occur in the process.
Announced by WRU chief executive Abi Tierney, the plan will save the Union £5million annually with a ‘simplified management structure.’
“Everything we are doing is to improve rugby in Wales for everyone,” Tierney said.
“Last summer we confirmed our strategic trajectory, where we intend to be by 2029, and today we are giving further details of how we are going to get there.
“The world game may have turned professional in 1995 but 2025 will be the moment we remember Welsh rugby completed this transformation, into a fully functional, fit-for-purpose, professional organisation.”
New PRA: Light on Detail
A new Professional Rugby Agreement – called PRA25 – has also been agreed with the regions, increasing funding and what the WRU describes as ‘collaboration’ between itself and the clubs.
There has been much speculation over the size of the role that the WRU will play in rugby decisions, ranging from player and coaching signings to individual selection decisions.
The WRU say that a newly structured ‘performance department’ will be set up to ensure ‘alignment’ between the international, club, and pathways on both the men’s and women’s side of the game.
No doubt Tierney’s plans will have been changed by the major news that the WRU would be taking over Cardiff Rugby after the club revealed that they would be going into administration.
The WRU maintain that they are looking for longer-term investors into the club but, for the time being, the Union has control over both the financial and rugby sides of the club.
“The success of the professional game is an integral part of the strategy,” Tierney said.
“Our aim is to inspire competitive clubs and national teams and the progress made here will help sustain the whole game in Wales.”
Read More:
- Cardiff Rugby To Go Into Administration: What Next For The Region?
- ‘Shocked’, ‘Worrying’, ‘Wrong’: Reaction As Cardiff Goes Into Administration
‘Stop Living Beyond Our Means’
Top of many people’s minds upon reading the ‘One Wales’ strategy is the potential job losses that will be made.
The WRU claim that the pan will involve £5million annual savings and that they intend to achieve this by simplifying the management structure and making a ‘small number’ of job losses. It has been reported that as many as 20 jobs could be cut.
One area that seems to be under threat is the ‘Hub Officer’ programme which is due to be restructured to increase the coverage of each officer.
The WRU say that the money saved will be put back into the community game.
“In Wales we are rich in heritage and history and our amateur clubs are the lifeblood of our game, but we fail our members and our supporters if we don’t maximise both their potential and that of our professional game,” Tierney added.
“This is what our strategy is designed to do.
“Integral to our plans is a need to stop living beyond our means and ensuring we can invest in the key elements that contribute to a thriving rugby nation. This has led to the re-set at the WRU we are announcing today. There will also be investment in key areas, which will enable growth, as we complete our transformation programme. Regrettably there will also be a small number of job losses.
“We will make sure we look after those people affected by these changes and do everything possible to ensure their well-being and welfare during our consultation process.”
Attempting to reach Ambitious Goals
Last year the WRU set out its five main goals for Welsh rugby to reach by 2029:
- The men’s and women’s senior international teams consistently ranked in the top five in the world.
- Club teams in the United Rugby Championship and Celtic Challenge competing in the play-offs.
- Retain and grow the number of active participants – the WRU says that there are just shy of 60,000 playing in Wales.
- Financial stability across the game and at all levels.
- Increase the percentage of Welsh public who are positive about Welsh rugby.
After a long period with many asking how the WRU would achieve these ambitious goals, the Union have now announced their four pillars which will help reach these aims:
- Develop inspiring, competitive clubs and national teams.
- Foster a thriving and sustainable community game.
- Accelerate the development of the women’s and girl’s rugby ecosystem.
- Capture, engage, and grow the Welsh rugby audience through positive brands, experiences, and narratives.
The outcome of the WRU’s aims remains to be seen.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
QUICK LINKS
May's Sporting Calendar
Rhodri Evans
Rugby Union
Sharks vs Ospreys
KO 19:00 9th May
Kings Park Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Bulls vs Cardiff
KO 15:00 10th May
Loftus Versfeld Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Stormers vs Dragons
KO 17:15 10th May
Cape Town Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Lions vs Scarlets
KO 14:00 11th May
Ellis Park Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Stormers vs Cardiff
KO 18:00 16th May
Cape Town Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Bulls vs Dragons
KO 14:00 17th May
Loftus Versfeld Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Lions vs Ospreys
KO 16:15 17th May
Ellis Park Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Sharks vs Scarlets
KO 18:30 17th May
Kings Park Stadium
United Rugby Championship
EPCR Challenge Cup Final
KO 20:00 23rd May
Principality Stadium
EPCR Champions Cup Final
KO 14:45 24th May
Principality Stadium
Football
Swansea City vs Oxford United
KO 12:30 3rd May
Swansea.com Stadium
EFL Championship
Newport County vs Tranmere Rovers
KO 15:00 3rd May
Rodney Parade
EFL League Two
Cricket
Glamorgan vs Derbyshire
2nd-5th May
Sophia Gardens
County Championship Division Two
Glamorgan vs Gloucestershire
5th May
Newport CC
Women’s T20 County Cup
Glamorgan vs Northamptonshire
16th-19th May
Sophia Gardens
County Championship Division Two
Glamorgan vs Middlesex
23rd-26th May
Sophia Gardens
County Championship Division Two
Netball
Cardiff Dragons vs Nottingham Forest
19:00 16th May
House of Sport
Netball Super League
Cardiff Dragons vs Loughborough Lightning
19:00 24th May
House of Sport
Netball Super League
Rugby League
North Wales Crusaders vs Newcastle Thunder
KO 14:30 18th May
Eirias Stadium
RFL League One
Horse Racing
Tuesday Afternoon Racing
6th May
Ffos Las Racecourse
The Flat Season Opener
13th May
Chepstow Racecourse
Family Fun Day 2025
17th May
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Spring Afternoon Flat Racing
21st May
Chepstow Racecourse
Spring Racing
22nd May
Ffos Las Racecourse
Friday Afternoon Racing
30th May
Chepstow Racecourse
Walking
Vale of Glamorgan (7 miles)
10am 7th May
“North and South of the A48” Colwinston, St Michael’s Close, CF71 7BF
A country walk with tremendous views.
Vale of Glamorgan (4 miles)
10am 14th May
“Iolo Morganwg Walk” Cowbridge, Cattle Market, The Butts, CF71 7AS
A short version of the longer Iolo Morganwg Trail, bilingual.
Vale of Glamorgan (7 miles)
9:30am 22nd May
“The Real Two Saints” Peterston-super-Ely, The Three Horseshoes, CF5 6LH
A walk in the River Ely valley.
For more walks, visit www.valeways.org.uk
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
QUICK LINKS
Wales Take Another Step Forward With Sweden Draw
Rhodri Evans
Wales pulled off another scalp by earning a hard fought 1-1 draw with Sweden in Gothenburg last night.
Against a Sweden side packed with experience league-winning players, Wales were dogged and determined, winning a second point in their Nations League group.
With a first European Championship coming in the summer, this Nations League group – with Sweden, Denmark, and Italy – has proved to be the perfect preparation for Rhian Wilkinson’s side.
After tight losses in Italy (1-0) and at home to Denmark (1-2), Wales have drawn twice with Olympic silver medallists Sweden and shown themselves ready to compete with the biggest European nations.
Wales are in a ‘group of death’ at this summer’s EUROs, with England and Netherlands – winners of the last two EURO tournaments – as well as France standing in their way.
‘Like a mini Euros’
Hannah Cain, whose well taken goal levelled the match last night, is confident that Wales are now ‘up there’ with those so-called bigger nations.
“It is almost like a mini EUROs for us, the teams that we are playing in every single camp are amazing, they are so strong and we are showing we can compete with them and get performances,” she told BBC Sport Wales.
“We are up there with those sides now.”
Cain’s side were missing a number of key players going into this match. Former captain and centurion Sophie Ingle has been out with an ACL for almost a year now, while key attackers Jess Fishlock and Kayleigh Barton also missed this camp.
Add in the shin injury that Ceri Holland suffered in the previous match with Denmark, and Wales were shorn off four of their most experienced players.
“We’ve not really been in this position before where we can still put in a top, top performance despite missing such massive players,” Cain added.
“They play a key role and we are missing them. Maybe if those four players had been here tonight we could have got the three points, but we still put in a top performance and hopefully they will be proud of us too.”
Young Players Stepping Up
Rhian Wilkinson spoke prior to April’s two fixtures that she would use the absentees as a chance to give opportunities to younger players, with a number of fringe members of the squad stepping up.
Safia Middleton-Patel, Manchester United’s second choice goalkeeper, won the player of the match award against Sweden last night, pulling off a number of excellent saves to keep Wales in the game.
With Olivia Clark and Middleton-Patel both in the early stages of their careers, Wales now have two high-quality goalkeepers to choose from. Not a bad position to be in.
“It was unreal. I think it was one of our best performances. We showed everyone what we are about, we aren’t just underdogs, we are here to play,” Middleton-Patel told BBC Sport Wales.
“I am over the moon. The team have put me in this position. It doesn’t feel like my third cap, I feel like I’ve been here for years.
“Personally for me, it was one of the best games I’ve played. I will leave my phone turned off for a bit and let everything sink in I think.”
Elsewhere, defender Esther Morgan started her first international game for 639 days, and looked assured against a lethal Swedish attack, while striker Elise Hughes made her first start for club or country in over a year after having ACL surgery.
Squad regulars Ffion Morgan, Charlie Estcourt, Lily Woodham, Carrie Jones, Ella Powell, and Mayzee Davies have all grown under Wilkinson’s stewardship and have looked ready to take on the best in the world in recent matches.
Wilkinson’s ‘Pride’
Since beating the Republic of Ireland to qualify for EURO 2025, manager Wilkinson has spoken often about using these Nations League matches to develop and learn about her side against the very best in European international football.
With close matches against three established nations now, Wilkinson has expressed her pride in the steps that her side has taken.
“That was a fantastic performance. In possession we had good stretches of the game,” she said.
“In football you have to ride your luck and they [Sweden] came close a couple of times but the way this team never quits, the way they stick in it to get a tie against Sweden away is a phenomenal moment and something we can build on.
“No matter who we put on, no matter what role I ask them to play, they give everything. It’s not always perfect and I don’t ask for perfection. That’s what I want the Welsh public to be proud of, that this team is putting on performances for them.”
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
QUICK LINKS
'Shocked', 'Worrying', 'Wrong': Reaction As Cardiff Goes Into Administration
Rhodri Evans
Former Wales international and Cardiff winger Alex Cuthbert has described the news that his former side will be going into administration as ‘shocking’.
Cuthbert played for Cardiff between 2011 and 2018, earning the majority of his 57 international caps during that time.
“First of all, I’m shocked that the club has been allowed to get into this position,” Cuthbert said, speaking exclusively to Sportin Wales.
“I was lucky enough to represent the club for a large part of my career and I owe a lot of my achievements to the people at Cardiff.”
It is widely expected that the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) will take over the short-term running of the region, with a long-term investor targeted.
For Cuthbert and many others with connections to Cardiff Rugby, this is a stressful period of uncertainty before any concrete plans are announced.
“I know so many people who play for and are connected to the club and it is undoubtedly a difficult time,” he added.
“I hope that the future is more secure than it currently looks and that a long-term investor who puts Cardiff Rugby first can be found quickly.”
Former Wales wing Dafydd James, who briefly appeared in a Cardiff jersey at the end of his career, hoped that there would be no job losses.
“Extremely sad state of affairs and not a great position to be in as a player or a back room staff member,” he said on X.
“Let’s hope it’s a positive take over and no job losses. Indicative of Welsh rugby as a whole.”
‘Shocked at the news’
The CF10 Rugby Trust, a representative organisation for fans of Cardiff Rugby and Cardiff RFC, attempted to reassure their members that the continuation of Cardiff as club is their upmost priority.
In a statement posted on X, the trust said: “Whilst shocked at the news, we now need to look to the future.
“At this difficult time, we want to reassure our members and other Cardiff supporters that we will do our utmost to ensure the survival of our great capital city club.
“Cardiff Rugby has been around since 1876 and we need to ensure we are around for our 150th anniversary and for many decades beyond.”
Cardiff Fan Reaction: ‘Serious Questions’
Dan Pearce, prominent Cardiff fan and account owner of the popular Cardiff Rugby Life X page, has called for ‘serious questions’ to be asked about how the club reached this drastic point.
“Obviously, my first thoughts are with the players and staff as they enter an uncertain period,” Pearce said.
“Incredibly sad day for the club and worrying times for supporters, hopefully we’ll hear from Cardiff Rugby soon what the next steps are, and that a positive outcome is possible.
“Naturally there will be serious questions over how it got to this. Was the due diligence done on Helford Capital by the WRU and their advisors thorough enough, and how did the day-to-day senior management, and non-Helford members of the Board, let it get to this point?
“Supporters will want to see a major level of transparency on this front.”
Over on Facebook, Cardiff fans reacted to the news with shock and anger.
One fan, Matt Pock, commented that the club had been “betrayed by the owners who called themselves lifelong fans”, while Terry Walters asked “we are the capital city club with the best support, how could they mess this up?”
Rich Williams described the situation as “shambolic.”
“Shambolic is an understatement,” he said. “Very careful attention needs to be made to ensure the club is not hollowed out through the process as it has for other clubs in the UK.”
Williams is referring to former English Premiership sides Wasps, London Irish, and Worcester Warriors who all went bust in a 12 month period. Worcester have managed to return to the second tier of English rugby, but there is no news of London Irish or Wasps returning to the professional game.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
QUICK LINKS
Cardiff Rugby To Go Into Administration: What Next For The Region?
Rhodri Evans
Cardiff Rugby will declare their intention to go into administration with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) set to takeover control of the club, Sportin Wales understands.
Welsh capital based region will serve a notice of intent to appoint an administrator in the coming days.
The WRU will step in to run the day-to-day operation of the side, despite not being able to step in straight away. There was an emergency meeting on Tuesday afternoon, held by Chief Executive Richard Holland, with the players, coaches, administrative, and operations staff.
In a statement from the WRU, the organisation said that they are ‘aware’ of Cardiff’s intentions and that they are ‘working closely’ with the region.
“We are aware Cardiff Rugby have confirmed notice of intention to appoint administrators, and we are working closely with the Cardiff Board and the administrators to safeguard the future of professional rugby in Cardiff,” said a WRU spokesperson.
A Cardiff statement read: “Cardiff Rugby can confirm notice of intention to appoint administrators has been filed. Please rest assured that everything possible is being done to protect our employees and the future of the club. We have a plan in place and we will update you as soon as possible.”
Investment group Helford Capital Limited completed their takeover of Cardiff in January 2024, after it acquired 84.55% shareholding.
Neal Griffith, along with Welsh entrepreneur Phil Kempe, have owned the club since then.
As part of the takeover process, Cardiff Athletic Club (CAC) agreed to a reduced and small minority interest. CAC owns the freehold of Cardiff Arms Park where Cardiff Rugby play under a tenancy agreement.
Both Kempe and Griffith effectively took on a benefactor commitment to any losses incurred by the club which had been agreed by Peter Thomas before his death.
That was agreed as part of the current funding agreement between the Welsh regions and the governing body the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU). A new deal between the WRU and the regions has yet to be signed off and has been in the works for a number of months now.
Fit and proper person and financial tests on the directors of Helford were undertaken on behalf of Cardiff Rugby by the WRU, via a professional advisory firm. Both passed as part of the due diligence that led to the takeover of the club.
What’s Next?
Cardiff’s decision comes with the WRU yet to announce the next phase of their ‘One Wales’ strategy that aims to make Wales one of the top rugby nations again.
The strategy sets out plans to make the senior men’s and women’s sides consistently in the top five of the world rankings, with the regional sides competing in the play-offs of the United Rugby Championship and at the top of the Celtic Challenge by 2029.
The deal – called the Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA) – is based on the four regions, including Cardiff, being functioning independent businesses with private investment.
Today’s news puts the PRA into jeopardy.
What will happen if the WRU takeover?
While the WRU have not yet confirmed their plans to takeover Cardiff Rugby in the short term, Sportin Wales understands that this will be the case.
If the WRU does take over in the short term, then the process of finding a longer-term investor or owner will begin very shortly.
The last time a region required the WRU to step in like this was with Dragons RFC in 2017. In that case, the Union avoided taking over permanent ownership of the club, returning it to private ownership in 2023 with chairman David Buttress buying both the club and Rodney Parade.
What effect will this have on the pitch?
It is difficult to have a confident answer on what will happen to the club without official confirmation of the plans, but Cardiff do not play until Saturday April 19th, when they face Ospreys at the Principality Stadium as part of ‘Judgement Day.’
Matt Sherratt’s side, despite going out of the EPCR Challenge Cup last weekend to Connacht, are still in the fight to qualify for the URC play-offs.
Cardiff play their final home match of the regular season at the Arms Park against Munster on April 25.
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.
QUICK LINKS
April's Sporting Calendar
Rhodri Evans
Football
Newport County vs Bromley
KO 19:45 1st April
Rodney Parade
EFL League Two
Wales vs Denmark
KO 19:15 4th April
Cardiff City Stadium
UEFA Women’s Nations League
Swansea City vs Derby County
KO 15:00 5th April
Swansea.com Stadium
EFL Championship
Wrexham vs Burton Albion
KO 15:00 5th April
Cae Ras
EFL League One
Swansea City vs Plymouth Argyle
KO 19:45 9th April
Swansea.com Stadium
EFL Championship
Cardiff City vs Stoke City
KO 15:00 12th April
Cardiff City Stadium
EFL Championship
Newport County vs Colchester United
KO 15:00 12th April
Rodney Parade
EFL League Two
Swansea City vs Hull City
KO 15:00 18th April
Swansea.com Stadium
EFL Championship
Wrexham vs Bristol Rovers
KO 15:00 18th April
Cae Ras
EFL League One
Cardiff City vs Oxford United
KO 15:00 21st April
Cardiff City Stadium
EFL Championship
Newport County vs Walsall
KO 15:00 21st April
Rodney Parade
EFL League Two
Cardiff City vs West Bromwich Albion
KO 15:00 26th April
Cardiff City Stadium
EFL Championship
Wrexham vs Charlton Athletic
KO 15:00 26th April
Cae Ras
EFL League One
Rugby Union
Ospreys vs Scarlets
KO 17:30 6th April
Swansea.com Stadium
EPCR Challenge Cup
France vs Wales
KO 12:45 12th April
Stade Amedee-Domenech
2025 Women’s Six Nations
Ospreys vs Cardiff Rugby
KO 15:00 19th April
Principality Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Dragons vs Scarlets
KO 17:30 19th April
Principality Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Wales vs Ireland
KO 15:00 20th April
Rodney Parade
2025 Women’s Six Nations
Cardiff Rugby vs Munster
KO 19:35 25th April
Cardiff Arms Park
United Rugby Championship
Italy vs Wales
KO 12:15 26th April
Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi
2025 Women’s Six Nations
Ospreys vs Dragons
KO 15:00 26th April
Swansea.com Stadium
United Rugby Championship
Scarlets vs Leinster
KO 17:15 26th April
Parc Y Scarlets
United Rugby Championship
Cricket
Glamorgan vs Leicestershire
4th-7th April
Sophia Gardens
County Championship Division Two
Glamorgan vs Sussex
19th April
Sophia Gardens
One Day Cup Women’s League Two
Glamorgan vs Middlesex
27th April
Newport CC
One Day Cup Women’s League Two
Ice Hockey
Cardiff Devils vs Coventry Blaze
FO 19:30 12th April
Vindico Arena
Elite Ice Hockey League
Netball
Cardiff Dragons vs Manchester Thunder
19:00 5th April
Utilita Arena
Netball Super League
Cardiff Dragons vs Leeds Rhinos
19:00 19th April
House of Sport
Netball Super League
Rugby League
North Wales Crusaders vs Cornwall
KO 14:30 6th April
Eirias Stadium
RFL League One
North Wales Crusaders vs Whitehaven
KO 14:30
Eirias Stadium
RFL League One
Horse Racing
Grand National Party Raceday
5th April
Chepstow Racecourse
Celebrate Carmarthenshire
6th April
Ffos Las Racecourse
Wrexham Day 2025
12th April
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
Bank Holiday Raceday
21st April
Chepstow Racecourse
Gents Evening 2025
24th April
Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse
The Dunraven Bowl Evening
25th April
Chepstow Racecourse
Walking
Vale of Glamorgan (7 miles)
10am 9th April
“Wick Roundabout”, Wick, Roadside by The Star Inn, CF71 7QA
An interesting walk in the glorious western Vale of Glamorgan.
Vale of Glamorgan (7 miles)
9:30am 17th April
“Biglis’ Big Brother”, Dinas Powys, Star Inn, CF64 4DE
A walk with interesting views across the eastern Vale of Glamorgan.
Vale of Glamorgan (4 miles)
10am 30th April
“Coastal Path Circular”, Llantwit Major, Beach car park, CF61 1RF
A bilingual walk along the Wales Coastal Path.
For more walks, visit www.valeways.org.uk
Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.
If you want to read more pieces from Sportin Wales, why not read to our monthly magazine here or subscribe to the magazine and newsletter at https://sportin.wales/subscribe/.
Our podcast is back for the new season and our co-founder Alex Cuthbert is in charge! You can find all the episodes here or the video versions on our YouTube channel.
You can also keep track of our pieces and videos on our socials at @Sportin_Wales on X or Sportin Wales on Instagram and Facebook.