Netflix Six Nations series threatened as furious Wales players 'refuse to film'

16 February 2023 , 17:13

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Netflix cameras are scheduled to film all six sides during this year's tournament

Wales rugby stars have reportedly refused to film for a Netflix documentary on the 2023 Six Nations.

Warren Gatland's players are at the centre of an almighty storm over an ongoing contract dispute, with a boycott of next weekend's clash with England deemed a real possibility.

A contract freeze has caused chaos in the latest crisis to hit Welsh rugby, with players unsure of their futures in the sport.

The plight has been played out against the backdrop of a poor run of form on the pitch, with Wales suffering heavy defeats to Ireland and Scotland in their first two Six Nations matches.

Netflix cameras have been following all six sides and will continue to do so over the course of the competition, with the documentary set to air in 2024.

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It is hoped the behind-the-scenes show will replicate the success of Formula 1's Drive to Survive, which has proved a popular hit on the streaming service.

But in a fresh warning to the WRU, players are currently refusing to film for Netflix, according to ITV Wales reporter Matthew Southcombe. This comes after team members walked out of a huge sponsors dinner on Wednesday night.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland faces his side going on strike ahead of their Six Nations fixture against England (Getty Images)

Players were obligated to attend the event in Cardiff but in a premeditated decision, stayed for an hour before leaving early.

A meeting between senior players and WRU interim chief executive Nigel Walker was held earlier this week, with stalwart Alun Wyn Jones admitting strike action is still a "very real" possibility.

However, boss Warren Gatland has admitted he would not support his players boycotting the match against England on February 25.

Asked if he would support a strike, Gatland said: “No. I completely support the stance they’re taking in wanting to get resolution, but there’s a lot more things at stake in terms of ensuring that fixture does take place.

"But I’m in support of the players and the things they’re trying to do, so my role is just to try and prepare the team for next week. As far as I'm concerned, I'm just preparing for the game and I'm confident that the game will go ahead."

Liam Prenderville