The RPA has welcomed PRL’s publication of the independent panel’s decision on Saracens Salary Cap breaches this morning.

Whilst the published document brings transparency to this lengthy and damaging procedure, the RPA has fundamental concerns about the leaking of the confidential information regarding the players identities and personal information yesterday evening. This injurious leak has significantly eroded player trust and the RPA will be working closely with Lord Myners in his forthcoming review of the PRL Salary Cap regulations to ensure that confidence can be restored amongst the players, clubs and supporters alike.

RPA CEO Damian Hopley said: “Having been given absolute assurances that all confidential player information would be redacted, we were stunned that the entire report was leaked elsewhere to the press and this has caused untold damage to all parties concerned. We have taken up this breach of confidence with PRL as a matter of urgency and will continue to offer our ongoing support to all the players involved.

“The RPA stands by our position in support of the Salary Cap and the essential role it has to play in providing viability and stability for the English Club game. The RPA Players Board is meeting this coming Monday and the Salary Cap and its ongoing governance forms a crucial part of the agenda. We will be making no further comment until the Board has had the chance to discuss the matter further.”