England's next Six Nations match against Wales has been plunged into doubt after it was suggested that a number of Welsh players are reportedly considering strike action over contract issues.
The clash is scheduled to take place at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, however, it now appears to be under threat as the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has been unable to bring a freeze to contract negotiations to a halt, leaving many players in limbo over their futures in the sport.
The under-fire WRU remains locked in negotiations with the country's four regions - Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets - and are still all yet to come to an agreement that would resolve issues over funding for Wales players' contracts, which has brought about the current freeze.
As it stands, the basic wage of a Welsh rugby player is expected to decrease over the next couple of seasons under a new deal. £280,000 will be the highest a player can be offered, which in comparison to other elite rugby players, is considerably lower than the £400,000 some earn.
READ MORE: Wales warned against hosting Six Nations games in England amid prospect of losing millions
The situation is so far out of hand that according to reports the Welsh squad is pondering a strike against the WRU over the matter.
This could see England's match being called off at the last minute. One member of Warren Gatland's squad is even reportedly on antidepressants over the dispute, having also missed out on a mortgage due to the ongoing pay crisis.
Speaking to MailOnline, the unnamed player, who plays in England and has featured in Wales' two Six Nations matches against Ireland and Scotland, said: "I can’t believe I’m five months away from the end of my contract and eight months away from the World Cup and my future isn’t certain yet.
"I can’t apply for a mortgage and I’m on antidepressants. I’m also one big injury away from not having a job in July yet I’m starting for Wales every week and the WRU is making tens of millions from international matches.
"I never want to come back and play in Wales. I feel so sorry for the boys in the Wales camp. They are constantly stressed discussing the contracting problem. The WRU has blood on its hands if any of the boys get injured."
READ NEXT:
These well-known Manchester pubs have everything you need to watch The Six Nations
How to watch every Six Nations game in the USA and around the world
Erik ten Hag names three personal targets for his Manchester United rebuild at Old Trafford
'I am ashamed of myself' - Man City manager Pep Guardiola issues apology to Steven Gerrard
Eddie Hearn changes Tommy Fury vs Jake Paul prediction with new fight call
