Martyn Williams to achieve a century of caps – Rugby News Update
The 36-year-old Martyn Willams will make his 100th appearance for Wales as they take on the Barbarians before they embark on the tour of Australia in May.
"I have told Martyn he will be on the bench and he will come on to have an impact," Howley said. "The experience of starting an international is important and it is vital the young players who might have that chance against the Baa-baas go through that process.”
It was also confirmed by caretaker boss of Ireland, Rob Howley that the veteran back-row has been included in the squad based on his performances rather than sentiment. There has been a campaign going on in the social media that the Wales legend should be
allowed to complete a century of test caps for Wales.
The back-row made his international debut against the Barbarians at Cardiff on 24th August 1996, and since then, he has been a consistent performer for his national team, with his most notable contribution coming at the 2005 and 2008 Grand Slams.
However, no one can forget his brace against France in the 2005 Six Nations tournament, which turned the game in favour of Wales, along with the tournament.
Howley further clarified his talk with Williams, laying down what he expects of the veteran player. He said, "That will be great for their experience going forward. I spoke to Martyn about two or three weeks ago and I was pretty up front and honest with
him. He accepted and he has been a great player and ambassador.”
There was other great news for the Welsh boss, as he heard that the national captain Sam Warburton will be available for the tour of Australia. Wales plays Australia for a three-match test series.
Late last month, Warburton had claimed that he was hoping to be fit for the tour even though he declared that he will not be playing for Cardiff till the end of the season. It is a timely boast.
However, it is all going to be Martyn Williams, who will join the elite group of players who have played 100 tests for Wales. He joins the ranks of Stephen Jones and Gareth Thomas.
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