#360view: Injured trio a concern but Wales have balance

Matt Jones - Editor 09:47 01/09/2015
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  • Williams may not start Wales' first game.

    So Warren Gatland has opted to back his big guns, despite several stars carrying injuries or recovering from them.

    The New Zealander sprang one or two surprises in his 31-man Wales squad but, ultimately, the players heading into the tournament looks a positive mix of power, pace and craft.

    The major issue rightly concerning Welsh fans is the prognosis of the players selected despite being some way short of full fitness.

    Alun-Wyn Jones, Samson Lee and Liam Williams are a key trio likely to play pivotal roles, despite question marks against all three as to whether they will even start the opening Pool A game against Uruguay in 20 days.

    In 90-cap Jones’ case, he is likely to be out for several weeks after straining medial knee ligaments in the impressive 16-10 friendly win against Ireland in Dublin.

    That is of massive concern to Gatland. Not only is the experienced lock a magnificent grafter in the Wales engine room, but it just adds to the headache he is dealing with in terms of Lee and Williams’ fitness.

    The prop and wing/full-back are nursing Achilles and foot injuries respectively but both offer too much for their coach to have considered leaving them out.

    Not only is Williams’ versatility key, considering Alex Cuthbert’s poor form he will most likely start the first game if fit enough.

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    The front eight are far more mobile under Gatland. They work harder, hit harder and cover more ground, but sheer power is their obvious strength.

    Lee is a scrummaging monster within that powerhouse pack, a match for any team. He is the reason Gatland has not even slightly entertained the idea of a recall for Adam Jones.

    Gareth Anscombe has been unlucky to miss out, especially considering the selection of Jones, Williams and Lee despite their injuries.

    So too Ross Moriaty (his dad Paul and uncle Richard members of the Wales team at the 1987 World Cup), Ospreys’ James King earning the last spot ahead of the Gloucester back-rower due to his versatility.

    The inclusion of Cardiff centre Cory Allen is the biggest shock, having not featured in any of the warm-up games so far, but Bristol’s Matthew Morgan’s selection is inspired, the fly-half/full-back capable of magic off the bench.

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