Scottish Rugby Union Faces Challenge Of Convincing Clubs Of Semi-Pro League

The Scottish Rugby Union "faces a challenge to convince clubs over reported plans for a six-franchise semi-pro league which would represent a huge shake-up of Scottish rugby," according to Duncan Smith of the SCOTSMAN. Reports emerged over the weekend of proposals for union investment of "at least" £100,000 ($132,000) annually in each of the "franchises" over the first five years from '19-20. The six teams would contest a league, with playoffs to follow. While there is "definite interest from some leading clubs," there is reportedly also a "good deal of scepticism from other quarters after the idea was first floated at Premiership Forums, and many await with interest further clarity" from the union on Saturday. The concept of an eight-team semi-pro club league was raised a "few years ago" but these new reported plans "go further in the long sought for bid to bridge the wide gap from the club to professional game" (SCOTSMAN, 8/1).