Off-field issues ‘not a distraction’ for Scarlets boss Peel

The WRU has been working to finalise the new PRA after months of negotiations, offering a glimmer of hope in February when it announced the deal had been agreed in principle.

Wales’ four professional regions were given a deadline of 8 May to sign a new five-year agreement, but only Cardiff and Dragons have done so.

The PRA25 deal includes increased and fixed funding of up to £6.5m – up from the current £4.5m – starting next season.

However, Scarlets and Ospreys have yet to commit, citing unresolved “key issues”, including Cardiff’s recent takeover by the WRU, as reasons for the delay.

The WRU now has the option to trigger a two-year notice period under the terms of the current agreement.

Once that period ends, it holds the authority to revoke the regions’ licences to compete in the URC and European competitions.

“It’s not something we’ve spoken about. Obviously, there have been conversations around it but we haven’t addressed it formally,” Peel said.

“We know that our board is working hard on that and we have full trust in them and they’re doing a great job.”

Meanwhile, Scarlets will be without Gareth Davies against Sharks at Kings Park after the scrum-half flew home following a rib injury in the win over Lions.

Peel hopes the injury isn’t too serious and the 34-year-old will recover in time for the play-offs should Scarlets qualify.

“If we were to make the play-offs I would be hoping he would be back but I don’t know is the honest truth.

“He was pretty sore after the game and the medics will take a proper look.”