James Hook says he is prepared to wear number 10 jersey in upcoming encounter against France
Welsh international Rugby Union player, James Hook, has expressed his preparedness to wear the number 10 jersey for the national side if required in their upcoming encounter against France. Wales will take on France in the first of two 2011 Rugby World Cup (RWC) semi-finals on Saturday, October 15 at Eden Park, Auckland.
Hooks has expressed his desire to play at the fly half position, provided that Wales' first choice Rhys Priestland fails to recover from his shoulder injury, which he sustained in their quarter-final clash against Ireland last weekend. He made the comments on Wednesday, October 12, and added, “I would be there if needed and selected.”
Wales head coach, Warren Gatland, will announce his squad on Thursday, October 13. Besides Priestland, Wales are also waiting on the availability of their lock, Luke Charteris for their upcoming weekend game. If the duo recovers in time, then the chances are that the Gatland will announce an un-changed side.
Hook sustained a shoulder injury earlier in the tournament and made a return in Wales’ match day 22 in their last match against Ireland as he took the field from the bench.
Neath born Hook is a seasoned Welsh player and he made his debut for Wales in 2006 against Argentina. He so far has made 57 appearances in Wales’ national colours, which includes 45 starts. He has scored 320 points that consist of 12 tries, 40 conversions, 56 penalties and four-drop goals.
The 27-year-old Hook has termed France as a significant opponent. He added, “France were great against England on Saturday, They were clinical, took their chances well, kicked their goals and looked strong from the start. Everyone knows about French flair and their unpredictability.”
Hook confirmed the pressure of the big match on the players. However, he has expressed his hope that the players will repeat their quarterfinal performance to secure a berth in the final of the 2011 RWC.
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