Scotland players agree to reduction to salary

Scottish Rugby players have agreed for a reduction in salary package following the financial hit created by the pandemic coronavirus.

The decision follows after the meeting between the Scottish Rugby Union and Rugby Player Scotland with the 2020 season disrupted. Earlier, in April the Scottish board announced 10 to 25 per cent cut in wages for players earning more than £50,000 for a five-month period.

"Scottish Rugby and RPS have now concluded their recent period of negotiation to address the need to reduce operating costs through employee and contracted player salary reductions.

“Against the backdrop of the significant economic impact of Covid-19, RPS entered discussions with Scottish Rugby to find a mechanism whereby its members’ salaries would be subject to reduction, but their overall interests were protected.

“Both parties have now reached an agreement which acknowledges the need for sustainability in the sport in Scotland and meets the respective objectives of the business, while minimising financial hardship to RPS members through a programme of reimbursement should certain revenue streams be achieved over the course of the coming season.

“The discussions were conducted in a positive, open and constructive manner and both Scottish Rugby and RPS have agreed the specific financial details will remain confidential, with no further comment being made at this time.”