Mike Phillips and James Hook released by clubs – Rugby News Update
Rob Howley, the interim coach of Wales in place of Warren Gatland has been given a boost, as two of his players Mike Phillips and James Hook have been released early by their respective French clubs, in order for them to train with the national team ahead
of their June 2 meeting with the Baa-Baas.
Howley was grateful to the French Federation for releasing the players early, even though they were not obliged to do so, and under the rules of International Rugby Board, Bayonne and Perpignan were in a position to hold on to the players.
He said, "This is fantastic news for us as it means Mike and James will be fully involved in the complete preparation programme we have in place.”
Speaking about the two players, he was buoyant at having the experienced duo. He added, "They are both experienced international players but it is still a huge advantage to have them working within our environment from day one. We are extremely grateful
to the French Rugby Union and the individual clubs involved for taking this step.”
Wales tour Australia for a three-match series in the summers, and the Wales team is meeting up on May 21 for training. Any visit by a northern hemisphere team to the southern hemisphere is tough, but Wales will go there confident as they won the 2012 Six
Nations Grand Slam. Howley will also be able to work with the team before he leaves, even though he will be without the services of players from Ospreys and Leinster, who play each other in the final of the RaboDirect PRO12 final.
The interim Wales coach was circumspect on the early release, thanking the clubs. He said, "It is a gesture which will undoubtedly benefit the players and I know they will want to thank their individual clubs for helping them fulfil their international commitments
with Wales.”
Mike Phillips, the 29-year-old plays scrum-half for the Welsh, making his international debut against Romania at Wrexham, on August 27, 2003. In total he has represented Wales 65 times.
James Hook, the 26-year-old plays at the fly-half position, making his international debut against Argentina at Puerto Madryn, on June 11, 2006. So far he has played 62 tests for Wales.
Tags: