Wales have gone from threat of player strikes to verge of World Cup semi-finals under their wily coach
Wales head coach Warren Gatland talks to Liam Williams and Louis Rees-Zammit during a training session at Stade Felix Mayol in Toulon. Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Images, they have a track record of reacting positively while other teams shrink and melt. If his side can reach a third World Cup semi-final in four tournaments, Gatland’s reputation as a rugby alchemist will be further enhanced.
The high-speed rivalry between wingers Mateo Carreras and Louis Rees-Zammit is just one of several tasty match-ups, with the latter openly keen – “I would say it is pretty realistic at the moment” – to finish as the tournament’s highest try scorer. Before they can be unleashed, though, the battle of the breakdown will need to be won if either side want to control their own destiny.
The injured Taulupe Faletau will be conspicuous by his absence but the same applies to Pablo Matera in the Pumas backrow. Gatland, though, does have Dan Biggar back from a pectoral-muscle injury and this kind of contest is absolutely made for the ever-competitive Welsh No 10.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Warren Gatland: Don’t blame Wales for the lopsided World Cup draw‘I’d just say to the other teams they should have done better in the last World Cup’
Read more »
Dan Biggar returns for Wales in boost for World Cup quarter-final with ArgentinaOuthalf last played in the big win over Australia; Tommy Reffell comes into backrow for injured Taulupe Faleatu
Read more »
What will €265,000 buy in the US, France, Denmark, Argentina and Limerick?One price, home and away: Including a home near the water in North Jutland and a ski unit in Les Arcs
Read more »
I’m A Celebrity… will take place in Wales for second year runningAnother series of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here is on its way and we won't be returning to Australia any time soon.
Read more »
Top jockeys race for daughter of trainer undergoing treatment for leukaemiaA field of 12 of Wales’s best jump jockeys, including Sean and James Bowen, will take part in the charity race in support of the daughter of trainer Christian Williams
Read more »
England v Fiji: Borthwick to axe Ford and install right-hand man Farrell for quarter-final clashRugby World Cup: Ford was named man of the match in pool games against Argentina and Japan
Read more »