Dafydd Stays At Home

By Editor
February 11 2005

Wales have been dealt a blow following Dafydd Jones's withdrawal, with a groin strain. Jones's blindside place will now be taken by Jonathan Thomas.

Robin Sowden-Taylor has been brought onto the bench, with fellow open side Martyn Williams said to be struggling for fitness. Ian Gough's ability to play blindside has been taken into consideration by Mike Ruddock.

"It's unfortunate to lose Dafydd at this late stage, but Jonathan is a more than able replacement for him.

"Jonathan has been an integral member of the Welsh squad throughout last season, the summer tour and the November Tests and he has true international class. Said

"Robin will offer us back row cover from the bench and his performances at regional level recently mean we have every confidence in him.

"Even though we have lost Dafydd, there is still a huge amount of cover, quality and flexibility on the bench as Ian Gough has played at blindside flanker as well as lock on many occasions for the Dragons.

"Dafydd will undergo further examinations on Monday to assess his fitness for the remainder of the championship."

Ospreys' Andy Lloyd has traveled to Rome with the squad as cover.

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