Rugby Union News: Gatland Relishes Pressure to End Wales’ Losing Streak Against Fiji
Welsh national team coach Warren Gatland is confident his side can snap their nine-match losing run when they face Fiji in their November international opener this Sunday.
Gatland’s only victories last season came in uncapped warm-up matches, as Wales endured a poor run of form. A defeat against Fiji would mark their 10th consecutive loss, matching the country’s worst-ever streak dating back to the Steve Hansen era.
“Every loss is a bind, but I relish those challenges in terms of the pressure,” said Gatland. “Hopefully on Sunday, there’s ecstasy rather than agony.”
With the return of experienced players like fly-half Gareth Anscombe, Wales will be looking to get their campaign back on track before facing Australia and South Africa in the coming weeks. Former Welsh referee Nigel Owens will also join the coaching staff for the Fiji clash, providing valuable insights on the officials’ decisions.
Fiji, bolstered by the return of their England and France-based internationals, will pose a stern test. However, Wales have only lost to the Pacific Islanders once before, in the 2007 Rugby World Cup.
“At the moment with Wales, it’s about how we go about getting as many players as we can on the Lions tour,” Gatland added. “There’s a chance for those players to put their hands up and potentially be in the frame.”
A victory over Fiji would be a crucial first step for Wales in their quest to bounce back from their poor run of form and earn selection for next summer’s British & Irish Lions tour to Australia.
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