THE first benefit of the sudden loosening of the purse strings in relation to the Scottish professional teams was made public yesterday when Chris Cusiter, one of the key targets of those working to keep leading international players in Scotland, agreed a three-year deal to stay at the Borders.
It is a significant step forward for the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) for two reasons. He is the first of the high-profile out-of-contract players to sign for another period in the domestic set-up, a decision bringing hope that he will be followed by others. He has also pledged his immediate future to the Borders despite the newest of the Scottish clubs having struggled all season and languishing last in the Celtic League.



The understanding around Murrayfield is that most of the extra £1 million released to the professional clubs for next season’s budget has gone to the Borders, who have been the worst-funded since the club came into existence three years ago. Edinburgh will get a little more than their present budget, while Glasgow have come out of the deal worst, with no significant increase even though they are certain to be one of Scotland’s Heineken Cup entrants next season.

This article was originally posted on 8-Mar-2005, 13:41 by Hugh Barrow.
Last updated by Hugh Barrow on 8-Mar-2005, 13:47.