IRB cools Samoa strike talk

Editor

The International Rugby Board has released a statement cooling talk of a proposed strike by Samoa for next week’s fixture with England.

The International Rugby Board (IRB) has released a statement cooling talk of a proposed strike by Samoa for November 22’s fixture with England.

A report in The Rugby Paper suggested that the Samoan players were ready to boycott the game at Twickenham due to concerns with their Union.

But it appears the prospect of a strike has been extinguished, as the IRB explained that positive talks have taken place between the parties.

“On October 27, the IRB was made aware of concerns raised by the Samoa senior men’s national squad regarding the administration of the Samoa Rugby Union. This included an indication that the players would withdraw from the match against England on November 22nd if their concerns were not heard,” read the statement.

“Subsequently, the IRB engaged in dialogue with the Samoa Rugby Union and the International Rugby Players’ Association to facilitate urgent and collaborative resolution.

“With all parties, including the players, committed to ongoing dialogue, the players have withdrawn their proposed action and the IRB fully expects the Union to undertake its obligation to honour its November test programme commitment in full.

“This response is supported by IRPA and the Samoan players.”