I get the negativity in the past few comments on this thread, but also think Geech has a fair point.
I’m not convinced that the salary infringements were major and from what lots of (non-Saracens) folk have said about Wray he’s passionate about the game and his squad. It sounds like all in all, he’s just sought to give his players the best opportunities for life during and post-rugby.
The lack of contrition or transparency is what really bothers me as that’s what fuels the continued resentment (from me and plenty of other fans) towards Saracens. It’s left us in a position where it’s impossible to really know the truth.
We’ll never really know if the conversations were “Hey Maro, I’ve been thinking about a way for us to go into Business together to monetise your personal brand…” or “We’re strapped with the Salary Cap, so can’t give you a bigger contract. Instead, why don’t we invest in your images rights and give you a lump up-front to compensate?”
There should be lots to be admired about them. Frankly though, I couldn’t care less if they were in the Prem or not. Their generally dull play and constant hollering in the face of opposition combined with constant chat to the ref grinds my gears.
Let’s be honest, Geech probably knows more about this than any of us. I’m inclined to give Geech the benefit of the doubt. If it really was that minor, then Saracens only have themselves to blame for making it such a major issue in the Sport.
As for Lwasp’s point about wealthy owners it’s fair to say there’s a few out there who see the clubs as their playthings. But I think you’ve got more who use their hobby club to build a business - Chiefs, Sale, Bristol and Wasps all spring to mind.
Let’s hope that rather than Football, Rugby goes more in the direction of the NFL so that Billionaire owners doesn’t automatically equate to the haves and the have nots in the league anymore than it already is.