Former Wales Lock Criticizes Cory Hill’s Surprise Recall
In a recent development that has stirred up the rugby union community, former Wales lock Ian Gough has criticised the surprise international recall of Cory Hill as “demoralising” for home-based players.
Hill, a 32-year-old player, has not represented Wales in three years, having joined the Japanese fourth-division side Secom Rugguts. However, due to a shortage of second-row options caused by injuries, suspensions, and unavailability, Hill has now been included in Warren Gatland’s summer squad to face South Africa and Australia.
“It sends the wrong message to the players who have been consistently playing for Wales at the domestic level.”
- Ian Gough, Former Wales Lock
Injuries and Suspensions Impact Wales Selection
- Adam Beard, Rhys Davies, and Teddy Williams are all currently sidelined with injuries.
- Seb Davies is serving a three-game ban.
- Additionally, Exeter’s Dafydd Jenkins and Christ Tshiunza are unavailable for the Springboks test, as the match is scheduled outside the official international window.
Despite these challenges, Gough, who earned 64 caps for Wales between 1998 and 2009, has expressed his concerns. He believes Gatland’s decision to recall Hill sends the “wrong message” to other players who have been consistently representing Wales at the domestic level.
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