JAMES HOOK HAS never really been trusted by Warren Gatland. The Welsh out-half is undoubtedly one of the most talented men at his position in the world but for some of the biggest games during the Kiwi’s tenure, Hook has been left on the bench.
Stephen Jones and Rhys Priestland have both been preferred to the current Gloucester out-half at various times during the last seven years, meaning Hook has had to be content with substitute appearances on the way to two Grand Slams and a World Cup semi-final.
Dan Biggar is Gatland’s number 10 now and it looks like Hook’s time in a red jersey is over for the time being.
But you only had to watch Gloucester’s riveting 33-33 draw with Northampton last weekend to see that the 29-year-old can still offer something at international level.
It is a little staggering to to see that Hook isn’t even 30 yet. Priestland is a very assured out-half but you could argue that Hook is a better bench option if you need to drastically change a game.
Wales desperately needed a late try against England. Would the former Ospreys 10 not have been worth a spot in the squad that day?
