Looking at the Welsh Squad for this years Six Nations

First topic message reminder :

the Wales team to face England


1. Jenkins
2. Hibbard
3. Lee
4. Jones
5. Ball
6. Lydiate
7. Warburton
8. Faletau
9. Webb
10. Biggar
11. North
12. Roberts
13. JD2
14. Cuthbert
15. Halfpenny

16. Baldwin
17. James
18. Jarvis
19. Charteris
20. Tipuric
21. Phillips
22. Preistland
23. Williams


WALES 2015 SIX NATIONS SQUAD:


Forwards:
Looseheads
Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues), Paul James (Bath), Rob Evans (Scarlets)

Tightheads
Aaron Jarvis (Ospreys), Samson Lee (Scarlets), Scott Andrews (Cardiff Blues)

Hookers
Richard Hibbard (Gloucester), Kristian Dacey (Cardiff Blues), Scott Baldwin (Ospreys)

Locks
Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys), Jake Ball (Scarlets), Bradley Davies (Wasps), Luke Charteris (Racing Metro)

Blindsides
Dan Lydiate (Ospreys), James King (Ospreys)

Opensides
Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues, capt), Justin Tipuric (Ospreys)

Number 8
Taulupe Faletau (Newport Gwent Dragons)


Backs:

Scrumhalves
Mike Phillips (Racing Metro), Rhys Webb (Ospreys), Gareth Davies (Scarlets),

Fly halves
Dan Biggar (Ospreys), Rhys Priestland (Scarlets), Gareth Anscombe (Cardiff Blues)

Centres
Cory Allen (Cardiff Blues), Jamie Roberts (Racing Metro), Jonathan Davies (Clermont Auvergne), Scott Williams (Scarlets), Tyler Morgan (Newport Gwent Dragons)

Wings
Hallam Amos (Newport Gwent Dragons), Alex Cuthbert (Cardiff Blues), George North (Northampton Saints),

Fullbacks
Liam Williams (Scarlets), Leigh Halfpenny (Toulon)

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Why do you think Edwards hasn't???

Both wingers have the same issues at club level.

Why is it the Welsh coaches fault...??


Maes, this story was in the Fail IIRC a few weeks ago why would they want to regurgitate it, why would they have to watch him at club level, where he has had no criticism, when the defensive issues ONLY arise with Team Wales.

Firstly the Westrrn Mail regurgitate stories on a daily basis. If you haven't realised that, then the world of media has a lot of surprises for you.

Secondly, Cuthbert and Nirth have exactly the same defensive issues at club level. This is the issue as much as it is at international level.

Probably why both North and Cuthberts selection at international level is in question.

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Why do you think Edwards hasn't???

Both wingers have the same issues at club level.

Why is it the Welsh coaches fault...??


Maes, this story was in the Fail IIRC a few weeks ago why would they want to regurgitate it, why would they have to watch him at club level, where he has had no criticism, when the defensive issues ONLY arise with Team Wales.

Firstly the Westrrn Mail regurgitate stories on a daily basis. If you haven't realised that, then the world of media has a lot of surprises for you.

Secondly, Cuthbert and Nirth have exactly the same defensive issues at club level. This is the issue as much as it is at international level.

Probably why both North and Cuthberts selection at international level is in question.

Maes, I'm 67 years of age, and the fail was doing this work when you were Poopie yellow, the point I'm making and you either cannot or will not accept is that Northampton are very pleased with North's form, attacking or defensive, it is only when he comes into the Welsh set up that the problems arise, this debate started with North, why you need to fetch Cuthbert into the equation surprises me, I never mentioned him.

Back 3 of Half, Amos and Williams anyone?

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Why do you think Edwards hasn't???

Both wingers have the same issues at club level.

Why is it the Welsh coaches fault...??


Maes, this story was in the Fail IIRC a few weeks ago why would they want to regurgitate it, why would they have to watch him at club level, where he has had no criticism, when the defensive issues ONLY arise with Team Wales.

Firstly the Westrrn Mail regurgitate stories on a daily basis. If you haven't realised that, then the world of media has a lot of surprises for you.

Secondly, Cuthbert and Nirth have exactly the same defensive issues at club level. This is the issue as much as it is at international level.

Probably why both North and Cuthberts selection at international level is in question.

Maes, I'm 67 years of age, and the fail was doing this work when you were Poopie yellow, the point I'm making and you either cannot or will not accept is that Northampton are very pleased with North's form, attacking or defensive, it is only when he comes into the Welsh set up that the problems arise, this debate started with North, why you need to fetch Cuthbert into the equation surprises me, I never mentioned him.

67 ?????

You must be joking, you behave and write like an irate teenager....!

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Why do you think Edwards hasn't???

Both wingers have the same issues at club level.

Why is it the Welsh coaches fault...??


Maes, this story was in the Fail IIRC a few weeks ago why would they want to regurgitate it, why would they have to watch him at club level, where he has had no criticism, when the defensive issues ONLY arise with Team Wales.

Firstly the Westrrn Mail regurgitate stories on a daily basis. If you haven't realised that, then the world of media has a lot of surprises for you.

Secondly, Cuthbert and Nirth have exactly the same defensive issues at club level. This is the issue as much as it is at international level.

Probably why both North and Cuthberts selection at international level is in question.

Maes, I'm 67 years of age, and the fail was doing this work when you were Poopie yellow, the point I'm making and you either cannot or will not accept is that Northampton are very pleased with North's form, attacking or defensive, it is only when he comes into the Welsh set up that the problems arise, this debate started with North, why you need to fetch Cuthbert into the equation surprises me, I never mentioned him.

67 ?????

You must be joking, you behave and write like an irate teenager....!

Irate teenager, I'm not the one spelling NORTH NIRTH, WESTERN WESTRRN you need to calm down laddie, and stop pushing the WRU stance on every single topic.

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Why do you think Edwards hasn't???

Both wingers have the same issues at club level.

Why is it the Welsh coaches fault...??


Maes, this story was in the Fail IIRC a few weeks ago why would they want to regurgitate it, why would they have to watch him at club level, where he has had no criticism, when the defensive issues ONLY arise with Team Wales.

Firstly the Westrrn Mail regurgitate stories on a daily basis. If you haven't realised that, then the world of media has a lot of surprises for you.

Secondly, Cuthbert and Nirth have exactly the same defensive issues at club level. This is the issue as much as it is at international level.

Probably why both North and Cuthberts selection at international level is in question.

Maes, I'm 67 years of age, and the fail was doing this work when you were Poopie yellow, the point I'm making and you either cannot or will not accept is that Northampton are very pleased with North's form, attacking or defensive, it is only when he comes into the Welsh set up that the problems arise, this debate started with North, why you need to fetch Cuthbert into the equation surprises me, I never mentioned him.

67 ?????

You must be joking, you behave and write like an irate teenager....!

Irate teenager, I'm not the one spelling NORTH NIRTH, WESTERN WESTRRN you need to calm down laddie, and stop pushing the WRU stance on every single topic.

Thankfully there is an ignore setting, try not to ruin the thread for everyone else with your insults.

Laddie...! Hilarious stuff Wayne...!!!

Which ever way you look at it MM, either Edwards is working with them (in which case both should be dropped for not being up to their required standard), or they obviously aren't doing their job as you don't hear of these issues with Northampton especially.

Gwlad wrote:Back 3 of Half, Amos and Williams anyone?

Gwlad,

This is gonna have to stop, we have agreed far to much of late . I would be happy with that back 3 though I can't see both North and Cuthbert being dropped. I think it will be one of them with Li Williams taking their place on the wing though him and Halfpenny should be swapped.

Most coaches (especially SH ones) really do like the mind games and if Gatlands latest attempt with North works then it will be very good for us but if it doesn't then I hope Gatland has the minerals to actually drop him, its easy him saying he would have been dropped even if he had been fit for the Boks game because that decision was taken away from him.

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

wayne wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:Why do you think Edwards hasn't???

Both wingers have the same issues at club level.

Why is it the Welsh coaches fault...??


Maes, this story was in the Fail IIRC a few weeks ago why would they want to regurgitate it, why would they have to watch him at club level, where he has had no criticism, when the defensive issues ONLY arise with Team Wales.

Firstly the Westrrn Mail regurgitate stories on a daily basis. If you haven't realised that, then the world of media has a lot of surprises for you.

Secondly, Cuthbert and Nirth have exactly the same defensive issues at club level. This is the issue as much as it is at international level.

Probably why both North and Cuthberts selection at international level is in question.

Maes, I'm 67 years of age, and the fail was doing this work when you were Poopie yellow, the point I'm making and you either cannot or will not accept is that Northampton are very pleased with North's form, attacking or defensive, it is only when he comes into the Welsh set up that the problems arise, this debate started with North, why you need to fetch Cuthbert into the equation surprises me, I never mentioned him.

67 ?????

You must be joking, you behave and write like an irate teenager....!

Irate teenager, I'm not the one spelling NORTH NIRTH, WESTERN WESTRRN you need to calm down laddie, and stop pushing the WRU stance on every single topic.

Thankfully there is an ignore setting, try not to ruin the thread for everyone else with your insults.

Laddie...! Hilarious stuff Wayne...!!!

Maes, this is 2 evenings on the trot, you have not been able to counteract my arguments and started the insult throwing, first Faletau and now North, if you actually open your eyes and not just taken the WRU stance on every single topic, you would be taken seriously on here.

Well, Paul John reckons Navidi and Turnbull have played themselves into the Welsh squad, do we agree ? I do with Navidi, but I think Turnbull needs to show a little more consistency:-

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/rugby-union/30807394

LordDowlais wrote:Well, Paul John reckons Navidi and Turnbull have played themselves into the Welsh squad, do we agree ? I do with Navidi, but I think Turnbull needs to show a little more consistency:-

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/rugby-union/30807394

Lord, for me, it is all according to how many Gatland has in his squad, if it is the normal 28-30 I'd agree with you, yet if it is the 35-38, I suppose Turnbull could force himself in, I'm just hoping if it is the latter for the 13 day period before the first match, it is cut down way before that first game so the excess can have some meaningful time with their Regions before the next set of Guinness games, which IMO are vital.

Risca Rev wrote:Which ever way you look at it MM, either Edwards is working with them (in which case both should be dropped for not being up to their required standard), or they obviously aren't doing their job as you don't hear of these issues with Northampton especially.

We have only just heard of these issues from WG. Probably because the Northampton Saints coaches aren't as proficient...

maestegmafia wrote:

Risca Rev wrote:Which ever way you look at it MM, either Edwards is working with them (in which case both should be dropped for not being up to their required standard), or they obviously aren't doing their job as you don't hear of these issues with Northampton especially.

We have only just heard of these issues from WG. Probably because the Northampton Saints coaches aren't as proficient...

Well thats obvious from how badly Saints are playing this year. Or maybe not.

Being slightly more serious it may well be that the styles of play between Saints and Wales are very different.

lostinwales wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

Risca Rev wrote:Which ever way you look at it MM, either Edwards is working with them (in which case both should be dropped for not being up to their required standard), or they obviously aren't doing their job as you don't hear of these issues with Northampton especially.

We have only just heard of these issues from WG. Probably because the Northampton Saints coaches aren't as proficient...

Well thats obvious from how badly Saints are playing this year. Or maybe not.

Being slightly more serious it may well be that the styles of play between Saints and Wales are very different.

More likely because a defence is not tested as much in the premiership as at International level.

North and Cuthbert are renown at all levels, club and International, for not being great defenders.

maestegmafia wrote:

lostinwales wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

Risca Rev wrote:Which ever way you look at it MM, either Edwards is working with them (in which case both should be dropped for not being up to their required standard), or they obviously aren't doing their job as you don't hear of these issues with Northampton especially.

We have only just heard of these issues from WG. Probably because the Northampton Saints coaches aren't as proficient...

Well thats obvious from how badly Saints are playing this year. Or maybe not.

Being slightly more serious it may well be that the styles of play between Saints and Wales are very different.

More likely because a defence is not tested as much in the premiership as at International level.

North and Cuthbert are renown at all levels, club and International, for not being great defenders.

Yes they are. Both very dangerous runners when given a little space but etc... It's just I don't think its all Northampton's fault that is all

There hasn't been much news about the Liam Williams and Samson Lee injuries, does anyone know how that's looking?

For me the back three should include LW at 15 and 1/2p on the wing, i.e. where they both started their careers and where both look most at home. LW at 15 is a no-brainer, at the moment (if he's fit).

Tyler Morgan looks as though he could have the attributes to be outstanding, I wonder whether Gats is thinking he might be ready by the W/Cup. If he thinks he might be, he'll presumably feature somewhere this 6N.

In the back row, I struggle to understand why people don't rate Tipuric more highly. To me, he's got that All Black attribute of always doing the right thing, whether in the battle up front or further out with the ball, and he works like a demon. Loads of effective little interventions.

Halfpenny hasn't played on the wing for 4 years,

Dont know why people are still saying it is where he is most comfortable

BlueNote wrote:There hasn't been much news about the Liam Williams and Samson Lee injuries, does anyone know how that's looking?

For me the back three should include LW at 15 and 1/2p on the wing, i.e. where they both started their careers and where both look most at home.  LW at 15 is a no-brainer, at the moment (if he's fit).

Tyler Morgan looks as though he could have the attributes to be outstanding, I wonder whether Gats is thinking he might be ready by the W/Cup.  If he thinks he might be, he'll presumably feature somewhere this 6N.

In the back row, I struggle to understand why people don't rate Tipuric more highly.  To me, he's got that All Black attribute of always doing the right thing, whether in the battle up front or further out with the ball, and he works like a demon.  Loads of effective little interventions.  

RE: Lee and Williams, they're both doing ok I think http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/30784491

wales606 wrote:Halfpenny hasn't played on the wing for 4 years,

Dont know why people are still saying it is where he is most comfortable

To be honest, I don't think he counter attacks well enough at fullback, hes solid under the highball and has a decent boot, but when he runs into contact I always fear hes going to get turned over.

IronMike wrote:

wales606 wrote:Halfpenny hasn't played on the wing for 4 years,

Dont know why people are still saying it is where he is most comfortable

To be honest, I don't think he counter attacks well enough at fullback, hes solid under the highball and has a decent boot, but when he runs into contact I always fear hes going to get turned over.

Agree with all that except he doesn't get turned over he falls over, usually on his noggin. he is very very god at staying on his feet when isolated or rolling out of first up tackles, but has a habit of getting his head down and going straight after it. All that said look at his Lions performances, his counter attacking and angles into the line were exceptional. I think it may have more to do with Wales orders to get the ball to their tree like wingers than Half's failure to come into the line. Anyway, it is testament to how solid he - particularly in defense which is why north and cuthbert are under pressure- is that we even consider him capable of just slotting into the wing to accommodate Sanjay.

Gwlad wrote:

IronMike wrote:

wales606 wrote:Halfpenny hasn't played on the wing for 4 years,

Dont know why people are still saying it is where he is most comfortable

To be honest, I don't think he counter attacks well enough at fullback, hes solid under the highball and has a decent boot, but when he runs into contact I always fear hes going to get turned over.

Agree with all that except he doesn't get turned over he falls over, usually on his noggin. he is very very god at staying on his feet when isolated or rolling out of first up tackles, but has a habit of getting his head down and going straight after it. All that said look at his Lions performances, his counter attacking and angles into the line were exceptional. I think it may have more to do with Wales orders to get the ball to their tree like wingers than Half's failure to come into the line. Anyway, it is testament to how solid he - particularly in defense which is why north and cuthbert are under pressure- is that we even consider him capable of just slotting into the wing to accommodate Sanjay.

I know he performed exceptionally for the Lions, I just don't think he's hit that high since for Wales, in terms of turning the match with great counter attacking.

Yes Mike i agree but i don't think it's a form issue. I just don't think the highly structured attacking system used by Wales based on spreading the defense by going round the corner, Jamie Roberts and then bang it out to the wing, has not lent itself to Half exploiting the line. Added to that team orders are almost definitely kick it back so when he does get the chance to counter, unless he is well supported or about to get hammered, he nudges it. I dont think Half has great pace and is definitely not very good at the Garry Owen.

I strongly suspect Turnbull will come in to cover lock and back row this term.

Phillips will be on the bench v England as will Adam Jones if Lee makes it.

Charteris or Bradley?
Gethin or James?

Right now with any question mark over Sanjay i expect to see Gats pick North and Cuthbert.

Gethin
Hibbard
Lee
Ball
AWJ
Lydiate
Warbs
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
North - or Williams
Roberts - S Williams?
JD2
Cuthbert - if not picked out of 23 altogether
Half - Williams with Half on wing to replace Cuthbert

Bench could be tricky with a variation on this:

James - possibly to cover both sides
A Jones
Baldwin
Charters/Davies
Tipuric/Turnbull/Coombs
MPhilipps
O Williams - I think Anscombe more likely
S Williams
L Williams

Gwlad wrote:Yes Mike i agree but i don't think it's a form issue. I just don't think the highly structured attacking system used by Wales based on spreading the defense by going round the corner, Jamie Roberts and then bang it out to the wing, has not lent itself to Half exploiting the line. Added to that team orders are almost definitely kick it back so when he does get the chance to counter, unless he is well supported or about to get hammered, he nudges it. I dont think Half has great pace and is definitely not very good at the Garry Owen.

I strongly suspect Turnbull will come in to cover lock and back row this term.

Phillips will be on the bench v England as will Adam Jones if Lee makes it.

Charteris or Bradley?
Gethin or James?

Right now with any question mark over Sanjay i expect to see Gats pick North and Cuthbert.

Gethin
Hibbard
Lee
Ball
AWJ
Lydiate
Warbs
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
North - or Williams
Roberts - S Williams?
JD2
Cuthbert - if not picked out of 23 altogether
Half - Williams with Half on wing to replace Cuthbert

Bench could be tricky with a variation on this:

James - possibly to cover both sides
A Jones
Baldwin
Charters/Davies
Tipuric/Turnbull/Coombs
MPhilipps
O Williams - I think Anscombe more likely
S Williams
L Williams

But it was the same coaches and same backline Wales use(aside from halfbacks) in the third test. I don't see why he would be so much more willing to attack, and if the result of playing more loosely ended up with putting 40+ points on Australia, why isn't Gatland playing that game plan for Wales?

IronMike wrote:

Gwlad wrote:Yes Mike i agree but i don't think it's a form issue. I just don't think the highly structured attacking system used by Wales based on spreading the defense by going round the corner, Jamie Roberts and then bang it out to the wing, has not lent itself to Half exploiting the line. Added to that team orders are almost definitely kick it back so when he does get the chance to counter, unless he is well supported or about to get hammered, he nudges it. I dont think Half has great pace and is definitely not very good at the Garry Owen.

I strongly suspect Turnbull will come in to cover lock and back row this term.

Phillips will be on the bench v England as will Adam Jones if Lee makes it.

Charteris or Bradley?
Gethin or James?

Right now with any question mark over Sanjay i expect to see Gats pick North and Cuthbert.

Gethin
Hibbard
Lee
Ball
AWJ
Lydiate
Warbs
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
North - or Williams
Roberts - S Williams?
JD2
Cuthbert - if not picked out of 23 altogether
Half - Williams with Half on wing to replace Cuthbert

Bench could be tricky with a variation on this:

James - possibly to cover both sides
A Jones
Baldwin
Charters/Davies
Tipuric/Turnbull/Coombs
MPhilipps
O Williams - I think Anscombe more likely
S Williams
L Williams

But it was the same coaches and same backline Wales use(aside from halfbacks) in the third test. I don't see why he would be so much more willing to attack, and if the result of playing more loosely ended up with putting 40+ points on Australia, why isn't Gatland playing that game plan for Wales?

Logically you are right and of course the fact that the coaches were the same you would expect the same performance. But that Lions side was a step above Wales and IMO would have pushed the world's best that day. Their tails were up and they were attacking from everywhere. Lions pack was dominant. The 2nd break for north's try was outstanding no doubt and shows what he is capable of, i do think he needs to be used more in that capacity as clearly he is up to it, but i just think it is not on the menu enough with Wales. Should be though.

lostinwales wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

lostinwales wrote:

maestegmafia wrote:

Risca Rev wrote:Which ever way you look at it MM, either Edwards is working with them (in which case both should be dropped for not being up to their required standard), or they obviously aren't doing their job as you don't hear of these issues with Northampton especially.

We have only just heard of these issues from WG. Probably because the Northampton Saints coaches aren't as proficient...

Well thats obvious from how badly Saints are playing this year. Or maybe not.

Being slightly more serious it may well be that the styles of play between Saints and Wales are very different.

More likely because a defence is not tested as much in the premiership as at International level.

North and Cuthbert are renown at all levels, club and International, for not being great defenders.

Yes they are. Both very dangerous runners when given a little space but etc... It's just I don't think its all Northampton's fault that is all

Neither do I, both are, like you say, great going forward but we have all noticed their susceptibility in defence. I think Gatlands recent comment regarding Norths defence was made to give him a kick up the backside.

I'm sure we all hope it works

Why do people drop Cuthbert instead of North, both are poor defensively, North is having the better club form but Cuthbert was better in the AIs and he has a better scoring ratio for Wales.

For what its worth I would consider dropping both at the moment as a kick up the backside but it just riles that the default setting for many is to drop Cuthbert.

Gwlad wrote:

IronMike wrote:

Gwlad wrote:Yes Mike i agree but i don't think it's a form issue. I just don't think the highly structured attacking system used by Wales based on spreading the defense by going round the corner, Jamie Roberts and then bang it out to the wing, has not lent itself to Half exploiting the line. Added to that team orders are almost definitely kick it back so when he does get the chance to counter, unless he is well supported or about to get hammered, he nudges it. I dont think Half has great pace and is definitely not very good at the Garry Owen.

I strongly suspect Turnbull will come in to cover lock and back row this term.

Phillips will be on the bench v England as will Adam Jones if Lee makes it.

Charteris or Bradley?
Gethin or James?

Right now with any question mark over Sanjay i expect to see Gats pick North and Cuthbert.

Gethin
Hibbard
Lee
Ball
AWJ
Lydiate
Warbs
Faletau
Webb
Biggar
North - or Williams
Roberts - S Williams?
JD2
Cuthbert - if not picked out of 23 altogether
Half - Williams with Half on wing to replace Cuthbert

Bench could be tricky with a variation on this:

James - possibly to cover both sides
A Jones
Baldwin
Charters/Davies
Tipuric/Turnbull/Coombs
MPhilipps
O Williams - I think Anscombe more likely
S Williams
L Williams

But it was the same coaches and same backline Wales use(aside from halfbacks) in the third test. I don't see why he would be so much more willing to attack, and if the result of playing more loosely ended up with putting 40+ points on Australia, why isn't Gatland playing that game plan for Wales?

Logically you are right and of course the fact that the coaches were the same you would expect the same performance. But that Lions side was a step above Wales and IMO would have pushed the world's best that day. Their tails were up and they were attacking from everywhere. Lions pack was dominant.  The 2nd break for north's try was outstanding no doubt and shows what he is capable of, i do think he needs to be used more in that capacity as clearly he is up to it, but i just think it is not on the menu enough with Wales. Should be though.

We obliterated them up front that day, and we A Corbisiero who was superb and O Brien who carried very well. Over the course of three very attritional tests the squad depth told and in the second 40 we cut loose

And for what it is worth with the depth we seem to have at the moment and how Gatland likes to train AND if this is a mini pre world cup camp then I think they will take a larger squad

Jenkins
James
Evans
Hibbard
Baldwin
Dee/Dacey (not much between those two)
Lee
Jones
Jarvis
Wyn Jones
Ball
Davies/Charteris
Coombes
Lydiate
King
Warburton
Tipuric
Faletau
Baker
Navidi

Webb
Williams
Davies
Biggar
Anscombe (with Owen Williams on reserve list)
Roberts
S Williams
Davies
Allen/Morgan
Cuthbert
North
Amos
Walker/Dirksen/Prydie
Halpenny
Williams

Squad announced on Tuesday the 20th of January apparently

Patchell is starting at fullback for the Blues vs Rovigo

It will be interesting to see the size of this squad what with it being WC year. In the past he has normally only selected a small 28 man squad but wonder whether he will name a larger one and use it as a training squad as well or wait until the warm up games before bulking the training side of things out.

Not sure.

I think he may extend this squad by four or five

Again its the fine line between experimenting/trying new players and building a winning team and confidence.

I can't see many changes in this squad unless injury dictates

Well there are a number of injuries to contend with and there's still a few weeks to ho

Are there many injuries though Maes, has anyone been ruled out yet? Injuries will open doors for some I guess right up to the WC.

Ken Owens, Samson Lee, Rhodri Davies, Gareth Davies, Liam Williams and Dan Baker are all important to the cause. None are fit right now and the squad is announced in four days.

Out of those though its only likely Owens won't be fit isn't it. reports are that Lee is responding well to treatment, didn't G Davies play last week?

bedfordwelsh wrote:Out of those though its only likely Owens won't be fit isn't it. reports are that Lee is responding well to treatment, didn't G Davies play last week?

Gareth Davies is not fully recovered apparently, hence not in the squad for the weekend.

Emyr Phillips is another, a peripheral player but any absence by any offthese lads creates an opportunity to look at more players this six nations.

I would presume this to be a larger squad selection. Not the previously favoured 28 man.

wayne wrote:

LordDowlais wrote:Well, Paul John reckons Navidi and Turnbull have played themselves into the Welsh squad, do we agree ? I do with Navidi, but I think Turnbull needs to show a little more consistency:-

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/rugby-union/30807394

Lord, for me, it is all according to how many Gatland has in his squad, if it is the normal 28-30 I'd agree with you, yet if it is the 35-38, I suppose Turnbull could force himself in, I'm just hoping if it is the latter for the 13 day period before the first match, it is cut down way before that first game so the excess can have some meaningful time with their Regions before the next set of Guinness games, which IMO are vital.

Navidi has to get picked, the guy is like superman. This is nothing new as I feel he's been pushing for some years now. If it's at the expense of a regular squad member then for me it's Tips. I think I'm in a minority when I say I don't think Tips is playing that well, certainly nowhere near as good as Navidi. LD I agree with you on Turnbull. He's been below average all his career TBH, apart from last years purple patch where he came in for Wales and did an exceptional job. Against Leinster he looked slow and was at fault for their first try. I think when Gats announces an extended training squad for the RWC both will get picked, with Navidi the most likely to make the cut.

maestegmafia wrote:

bedfordwelsh wrote:Out of those though its only likely Owens won't be fit isn't it. reports are that Lee is responding well to treatment, didn't G Davies play last week?

Gareth Davies is not fully recovered apparently, hence not in the squad for the weekend.

Emyr Phillips is another, a peripheral player but any absence  by any offthese lads creates an opportunity to look at more players this six nations.

I would presume this to be a larger squad selection. Not the previously favoured 28 man.

A larger squad would make sense given these injuries, I would have picked Dee or Dacey ahead of Phillips anyway, Patchell is playing this weekend isn't or on bench at least I think.

He's at fullback for the blues...!

I would much rather see him included I a large squad than not..

In fact dispence with Priestland, (we know what he can do and what he needs to do to excel), and add Owen Williams and Patchell.

I think we need to cap Owen soon before the RFU try to Shingler him into the wrong colour shirt...

It seems like only a week or so ago that we were celebrating Wales' win against South Africa, but on Tuesday Warren Gatland will name his Wales squad for the Six Nations.

So just which names will be on the sheet? Will there any be any shock omissions along the same lines as Adam Jones' last November?

And will there be any bolters from the shadows, a shock inclusion that nobody saw coming?

We've got our thinking caps on here at WalesOnline and picked a squad of 33 - which we reckon could be the number Gatland goes for.

We've gone for a 19-14 forwards-backs split along roughly the same lines as last year's Six Nations.

It is not definitive and is based on conjecture at present.

All the same, it won't be far off if not spot on, notwithstanding Gatland pulling a rabbit out of the hat which he is apt to do on occasion.

Walesonline.com suggests this will be the welsh squad for the six nations
The back three

Leigh Halfpenny

A vocal minority want Liam Williams to start at full-back but Halfpenny remains the kingpin and it will be a big surprise if he doesn't retain the No.15 shirt.

Liam Williams

Arguably the form Welsh player right now and a squad certainty. But will Gatland find a place for him in the starting line-up? And if so, who makes way?

George North

Still the foremost strike-runner at Gatland's disposal but under pressure over his Test form in the last six months. Needs to step up.

Alex Cuthbert

If regional form was all that counted he'd be nowhere, but past exploits demand his squad inclusion. As for the team, that's a different matter.

Hallam Amos

The young Dragon has had a solid season mainly on the wing for his region and looks primed to be included in the party.




The centres   
         
Scott Williams
His main job is to break up the Robert-Davies centre axis but impressive Scarlets form from one of senior lieutenants available to Gatland.

Jamie Roberts

Probably the first name Gatland will write down. Excellent last autumn and central to Wales' attacking and defensive strategy.

Jonathan Davies

Appears to have had a mixed time of things at Clermont but is a world class midfielder whose reputation now goes before him. Left-footed kicking option.




The outside-halves

Dan Biggar

Has emerged as the number one choice at No.10 for Wales. Brilliant thus far this season for both Region and country.

Gareth Anscombe

The guy has only been in Wales a couple of months but the indications are that he has done enough for the Blues to earn a call-up.

Rhys Priestland

Has been much-maligned by some in Wales and is on his way to Bath next season. But he's been excellent for the Scarlets and should stay involved.




The scrum-halves

Rhys Webb

Has emerged this season as the successor to Mike Phillips at No.9. Will stay there too if he replicates November displays.

Mike Phillips

The Lions man will not allow Webb a free rein but is set to play second fiddle unless circumstances or fate interevene.

Rhodri Williams

Should squeeze in as third choice scrum-half ahead of his regional rival Gareth Davies, purely on the basis that Davies has only just returned from injury.




The loosehead props

Gethin Jenkins

He's been inconsistent at international level in the last year but did enough in the autumn to prove this classy warrior has a bit left in the tank yet.

Paul James

The Ospreys-bound stalwart is such a quality option to have but will start the tournament in his customary role - as back-up to Jenkins.

Rob Evans

The Scarlets man is still uncapped but for how much longer? Stellar regional form should elevate him, especially with Ospreys man Nicky Smith injured.         




The hookers   
         
Richard Hibbard

A bit of a mishap in the autumn when he played for Gloucester after Wales had deemed him unfit, but a certainty regardless of where he is playing.

Ken Owens

The Scarlets man's return from a neck injury has been delayed but he should be fit for most of the campaign and has done enough in the past to get some slack from Gatland.

Scott Baldwin

The Ospreys man had a patchy autumn when called up but is likely to be given the chance to further underline his Test credentials.




The tightheads

Samson Lee

Has a nerve issue in his neck at present which is concerning. But assuming he's fit Lee is the undisputed anchorman of the Welsh scrum.

Adam Jones

Injury to Rhodri Jones opens the door to the Lions man who was dynamited out of the squad last November. Has he done enough for the Blues?

Aaron Jarvis

Looks set for the call, like Adam Jones, because of the injury to Rhodri Jones. But still has it all to prove in the Test arena.



The second rows

Alun Wyn Jones

Like Roberts in the back line, the first name on the team sheet from the forward pack. The warrior of the Wales engine room.

Luke Charteris

More of a back-up role these days for the Racing Metro man but has the class and experience that underlines the strength in depth Wales have in this position right now.

Jake Ball

First played in last season's Six Nations and has grown in stature ever since. Hard as nails and Alun Wyn's partner until someone else makes a better case.

Bradley Davies

The Wasps man is in the same bracket as Charteris but is a real unit and takes no prisoners. All the experience in the world too.


The back rows


Dan Lydiate

Was in limbo last autumn in terms of his non-Test future but has since joined Ospreys and looks in good nick. One of Gatland's dogs of war.

Sam Warburton

The captain was outstanding last autumn and expect him to retain the armband as Wales' on-pitch general come the squad announcement.

Taulupe Faletau

The all-action No.8 has been a little disappointing for the Dragons this season but one of those who has permanent class and should step up when required.

Justin Tipuric

Will report to camp with his cushion in readiness for the amount of time he spends on the bench. But you have to have this fellow in the squad.

James King

Was on the bench for Wales' win against South Africa last November and has performed well in a successful Ospreys side thus far.

Josh Navidi

The Blues man has been on the periphery for a while but, on the evidence of current form, if he doesn't get a shout now he never will.

pretty much what will be selected I expect

I would probably be keen to drop Priestland for Owen Wiiams and Mike Phillips for Gareth Davies, (if he is fit). Possibly also not risk Ken Owens but try out Elliot Dee.

In the backrow, I think Turnbull and Shingler have been better than King of late. But there's not much in it.

yea fair shouts

Tyler Morgan?

Gwlad wrote:Tyler Morgan?

Is in the U20 squad where he belongs.

I hope the above isn't the official squad, as there are a few selections I strongly disagree with.

The Saint wrote:

Gwlad wrote:Tyler Morgan?

Is in the U20 squad where he belongs.

I hope the above isn't the official squad, as there are a few selections I strongly disagree with.

Enlighten us...

Mike Phillips, Rhys Priestland - showed against Fiji that right now they're possibly the worst half-back combo in world rugby. I'd have Elliot Dee there for Owens, I got a feeling rushing him back will just aggravate his injury - he's a lot better than Baldwin so I wouldn't want to see him injured long-term. Both wingers Cuthbert and North are off form and need to be taught they have to earn their way into the team. I also don't see JD2 as a squad regular any more but Gats does. I don't think King should be there, but Navidi covering 8 makes room for him I guess - both are better options than Turnbull and Shingler though.

Priestland has had a good run of games of late and seems to be getting some confidence back, still not see what Anscombe has done to be in there as yet.

Will OWens be fit, would have Dee in there and King has never impressed me other than that pretty much as expected.