SportBusiness.com

CLEAN BILL OF HEALTH FOR ZURICH CLUBS

The first ever review of English professional rugby's finances show Zurich Premiership clubs to be in good health.

The report by accountants Saffery Champness reveals the financial state of every top-flight club from 2001-2004.

Average turnover per club over the last three seasons was up by 31 per cent to £5.7million while total match day income increased 42 per cent to £18.5million.

The average yearly salary for a senior squad member was £60,000.

In the 2003/04 season, central income per club distributed by Premier Rugby reached on average £2million compared to £400,000 during the early days of the professional game

Premier Rugby's total revenue increased by 52 per cent between 2001 and 2004, driven mainly by broadcast agreements signed in 2001

Of the Premiership clubs who have remained in the top flight, four record a positive balance sheet for financial year 2003/04. Both Leicester Tigers and Northampton Saints have shown a profit (before tax) over the period in question.

Attendances at club games have been steadily increasing, with an average attendance of 85 per cent of capacity in the 2003/04 season.

The report highlighted the need for Premiership clubs to increase capacity at their respective grounds and improve stadium facilities.