Warren Gatland muses over Wales Six Nations starters

Friday 29 January 2010
Published By: Ben Welch
Six Nations > Wales

Wales coach Warren Gatland has been debating his starting line-up for the crucial Six Nations opener against England, admitting that the game could be the key to each country's hopes of winning the tournament.

According to Gatland, it is essential to hit the ground running in the Six Nations and with Ireland and France both looking impressive heading into the tournament, the chances of England or Wales having an impact on the table could depend on team selection on February 6th.

The Wales coach said his main selection dilemma was how to incorporate James Hook, who impressed in the autumn tests as a replacement for Lee Byrne but is likely to make way for his Ospreys teammate on the day and possibly join Jamie Roberts in midfield.

"I was very pleased with the way James played for the Ospreys against Leicester last weekend. He showed his skills and he does give us another option in midfield," he explained.

Meanwhile, Wales assistant coach Rob Howley has insisted that the side has "a spring in its step" ahead of the Six Nations, with no major injuries heading into the tournament.

Posted by Ben Welch