If anybody thinks the life of a professional rugby player is all glitz and glamour, they haven't been paying much attention. The last few years has highlighted the financial vulnerability of the game, and the precarious position many players find themselves in with sport facing years of austerity.
While the select few who get the opportunity to play international rugby are paid well, it is tougher than it has ever been to break into the professional game — as Ioan Rhys Davies will testify to.
Davies is a former Wales U20s international from Aberdare who was a member of the Cardiff academy, but when Covid hit it slowed his progress, eventually leading to the Arms Park outfit opting not to renew his contract.
