Sir Gareth Edwards has expressed his concern at Wales’ lack of strength in depth ahead of the World Cup and is troubled at the news Taulupe Faletau won’t be travelling to their second training camp in Turkey.
Faletau arrived late for Wales’ first World Cup camp in Switzerland due to a calf injury and the fact his wife had recently given birth to their third child. It was announced today the Cardiff No 8 won’t be part of their second intensive camp in Turkey next week, and Edwards insists this is a problem Wales could do without.
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“I’m very sad about that, sad for him, and it’s another question mark we could do without,” said the Wales great.
“He’s not just experienced, he’s an exceptional player as well. Wales are the sort of side that needs every one of its class players in the team. When you watch the other sides – and I watched New Zealand on Saturday – they have 30 players who could turn up for them and they’re still looking good.
“This is what plays a huge part in competitions – it’s about filling those gaps when you don’t have your best side out.”
Wales have endured a poor 18 months which saw former head coach Wayne Pivac lose his job following home defeats to Italy and Georgia, respectfully. Edwards is happy Warren Gatland is back at the helm, and is hopeful he can inspire this group of Wales players to punch above their weight in France.
“He seems to have the Midas touch,” said Edwards when asked about Gatland. “Let’s hope he still has it.
“I’m not being derogatory there. He’s an exceptional coach at finding answers for things, especially when your back is to the wall and things aren’t going right.
“I’d like to think we would have a side capable of taking other teams on and beating them. We need confidence in the team.
“It’s little things like injuries to key personnel that dampens the spirit a little bit but Wales have shown before they can upset the odds and I’d be delighted if that’s the case again this time.”
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