WALES’ INTERIM head-coach Rob Howley has claimed he will remain in charge of the team despite the arrival of regular boss Warren Gatland.
Gatland, who broke bones in both his feet after falling from a ladder in April, has flown across from his home in New Zealand for Wales’ final two Tests against Australia.
Howley confirmed yesterday that the 48-year-old arrived in Melbourne on Wednesday night ahead of the second Test against the Wallabies on Saturday, but denied Gatland would take over for the match.
“I’m still interim head-coach,” Howley said. ”It’s great to have the opportunity to have one of the best coaches in world rugby alongside you in a supportive role.” But when pressed further, Howley did admit Gatland could still make some decisions in the dressing room.
“We haven’t spoken about that yet, he only arrived last night,” Howley said. Wales have made four changes for Saturday’s match in Melbourne with experienced forwards Matthew Rees, Ryan Jones and Alun Wyn Jones, as well as young centre Ashley Beck, coming into the starting line-up after beginning the opening Test in Brisbane on the bench.
But it was the positions of openside-flanker and fly-half that dominated journalists’ questions on Thursday. Justin Tipuric, who was key to Wales’ 25-15 win over the ACT Brumbies, failed to oust Sam Warburton from the starting 15, although Howley admitted the 22-year-old did impress in Canberra.
“I think we’re really fortunate to have players of the ability of both Justin and Sam, competing for (a spot in team) and we’re delighted to give Justin the opportunity to come off the bench or sit on the bench because he had a pretty special game on Tuesday night,” Howley said.
At fly-half, Rhys Priestland was given another opportunity despite a much-criticised performance in Brisbane. Priestland’s obvious replacement James Hook also impressed against the Brumbies.
But Howley argued that Priestland had his ‘best defensive performance in an international jersey last week’ and deserved to start.
