Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) National Bowl - Update 27/04/2018

Cardiff University Head of Sport Stuart Vanstone said: “We wish both Pembroke and Porthcawl good luck for the WRU National Bowl Final on Sunday. However we remain extremely disappointed not to be playing in the final after the WRU appeal panel ruled that we, along with all universities in Wales, were ineligible for the competition, despite Cardiff University taking part for 46 years. The panel also decided we had fielded ineligible players, even though we had successfully evidenced to the WRU competitions management committee that dispensation had been provided to enable our students to compete in WRU competitions.

“We have sought legal advice and we have been told that we would be successful in seeking an injunction to prevent the final taking place on Sunday to enable further dialogue. However, we have taken the view that we do not wish to be drawn into a long-standing dispute with the WRU and this course of action would not be in anyone’s best interests.

“In addition, we welcome an invitation to meet with WRU Group CEO Martyn Phillips, WRU Head of Rugby Operations Julie Paterson and Head of Rugby Participation Ryan Jones to discuss the failings in WRU competition management that has led to this situation. We wish to ensure that it does not happen again in the future to us or any other member club.”