Wales searching for new captain as Mathew Rees injured - Rugby World Cup
Welsh management is currently on the look out for a new skipper after Mathew Rees might miss the Rugby World Cup 2011 due to a neck injury. Sam Warburton, who will lead his national side in their up coming clash of Rugby World Cup warm-up match against England,
is expected to be handed the captaincy armband in the absence of Rees. The Welsh coach, Warren Gatland, told the media on August 12 that Mathew Rees is in immense pain despite having injections.
Media reports are stating that Mathew Rees will not be available for RWC 2011 due to the intensity of the injury. Earlier, Wales’ management had signalled his inclusion in the side even if he is failed to participate in the remaining two test matches for
his team. Welsh Rugby Union told the media yesterday, August 11, that the veteran Rees is time tested and only fitness will be required to include him in Rugby World Cup squad.
Mathew Rees was put into the command during the Six Nations Championship of 2010 and led the side well during his tenure. The side deprived England of a Grand Slam during the Six Nations 2011 with a superb performance.
Talking to media about Mathew Rees, on August 12, Warren Gatland said that, “He has had an injection, but he is still in a lot of pain. It looks like he will need an operation sooner, rather than later. We will have to sit down and discuss things with him.”
The coach further said that, “We have spoken as a group about how important it is for us to win on Saturday.If we are going to be serious contenders in this World Cup, we need to send out a message that we are good enough to beat England at home and do that
next week as well (against Argentina).”
Wales have to play couple of warm-up matches before the kicking off of Rugby World Cup 2011. In their up coming contest they will take on England whereas the last match of their preparations for RWC will be played against Argentina on August 20.
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