Martyn Williams believes Wales can win – Rugby News Update
Martyn Williams, the 36-year-old former Wales international, who earned his 100th international cap against the Barbarians last weekend, is certain that Wales can go to Australia and claim a series victory against the Wallabies.
Wales tours Australia for a three-match test series start on June 9, and he feels that Wales is looking for a series win, rather than just fulfilling the tour obligations. The side goes to Australia on the back of impressive performances, having come 4th
at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, following that up with victory at the 2012 Six Nations Grand Slam.
However, they have not defeated the Wallabies since 2008, and have to look even further back for a victory away from home, which came in 1987. They last defeated Australia at Wallabies soil in 1969, and Wales is aiming for a historical triumph.
Speaking on the improved Wales team, Williams said, "I think they're more than capable of improving on the grand slam and World Cup and I think they're more than capable of getting a Test series win. The first Test will be key. If they can pinch one there
that will set them up nicely. Everyone is fit, Australia have a few players out...”
Australia has problems of their own, with a few key members of the squad nursing injuries. They are without skipper James Horwill and utility back James O'Connor, while fly-half Quade Copper and fullback Kurtley Beale are both injured at the moment. Williams
has identified David Pocock, the stand-in captain as a major threat.
Wales have their own injury problems. Warren Gatland, the head coach of Wales will not be travelling with the team as he is nursing a double ankle fracture. In his place Rob Howley will be serving as an interim coach.
Williams is getting the summer off, and reflecting on his 100th appearance, he said, "It was a strange feeling to wake up and think that it is all done and dusted and I won't be playing again. I loved every minute and it was a good couple of weeks.”
The tour is expected to be gruelling for the Wales' side.
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