Dr Syd Millar is labelling the French and English clubs' withdrawal from the European Rugby Cup as "selfish and disgraceful."


The chairman of the International Rugby Board released a statement pinpointing Serge Blanco's actions as shameful and believes the clubs' actions will have serious consequences for world rugby.

"It is unbelievable that one man should be allowed to bring European rugby to this state. We understand that not all clubs agree. Is there no one among the clubs of France who has the courage to say 'No, we will not be a part of this?'"

Miller said.

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The former Irish prop also criticised the entrepreneurs that own many of the English premiership clubs who are not used to deferring to governing bodies such as the RFU. He emphasised the fact that a good relationship between the union and clubs is essential for the good of the game and believes it is not too late for the clubs to reverse their decision.

"The rugby unions of the world will not allow 26 clubs to dictate the course of world rugby and the present situation has brought these unions even closer and more determined to preserve the game for the good of all,"

Millar said.


The IRB has been met with an angry response by some of the clubs involved. Wasps chief executive, David Davies, considered Millar's attack "just a tantrum from one of the grandfathers of the game".


Source: RugbyeNews.com