Hansen Explains

By Lestyn - 01/09/03
September 1 2003

Hansen Explains

After naming his squad Steve Hansen gave these explanations for some of his controversial selections

"Overall the selection process was a difficult one to go through as, for once, we have more than 30 quality players to choose from.

"But by being allowed to use the games in August for selection purposes our overall selection has been aided. "This has been a tough selection process. There has been so much at stake for all the players over the past few weeks and they have trained exceptionally hard as a group.

"Everyone involved in the build-up to our four Tests in August showed the kind of burning desire required to play for their country, but, because we are restricted to 30 players in Australia there are obviously some very disappointed men today.

On the Task Ahead

"But for those who have been selected there is a huge challenge ahead. We are targeting a minimum of five matches in the tournament and a place among the elite eight teams in the world by the time we return is the minimum standard we have set for ourselves.

"Our draw in Pool D is perfectly set-up for us. We all believe we are good enough to beat Canada, Tonga and Italy and then go into our final Pool game against the All Blacks full of confidence.

Those who missed out

"Chris Wyatt has been very, very unlucky to miss out on a second World Cup. Naturally he is disappointed and we have had a long talk and I still see him having a future for Wales, but unfortunately we could only take four locks with us this time. The combination we have selected we feel is better suited for this particular tournament.

Versatility

"In selecting the side we looked at versatility among the players and there are a number who can cover more than one position. For example, in the back line, Rhys Williams can play across the back three, while Gareth Thomas and Tom Shanklin are at home at either wing or centre.

"Iestyn Harris can play 10 or 12 and Shane Williams can play wing or scrum half. In the forwards, there are plenty of options among the back row contingent, Michael Owen can fit into the second row or back row and Gethin Jenkins can pack on either side of the front row. Colin Charvis will cover the openside position in the short term.

On Four Hookers

"We have selected 31 players at present because we have included four hookers," said Hansen. "That is due to a few injury worries we are having which will be resolved prior to the final registration date with Rugby World Cup.

As for Captain

"We will be addressing the captaincy issue at a later date."