BBC Rugby Union: Wales Seek Bigger Fly-Half Options for Summer Tests
(June 1, 2023) – Wales rugby union coach Warren Gatland has emphasized the need for more physically imposing fly-half options in his summer squad. With the retirement of Dan Biggar after the World Cup and Gareth Anscombe’s ongoing injury troubles, Gatland has named only one specialist number 10, Sam Costelow, for the upcoming matches against South Africa and Australia.
Gatland explained the team’s strategic approach, stating, “> The thinking is looking at some other options, some depth at 10. There are some good young 10s in Wales at the moment, but they are not big; they are quite small. We are looking for a different type of 10 with a different type of stature, someone like Jacob Beetham or Ben Thomas.”
The Wales coach believes that against physically imposing opponents, a fly-half with greater size and strength could be a valuable asset. “If someone is coming hard down the 10 channel when you are playing a big physical side, then you may need to match that with physicality of your own,” Gatland added.
To that end, Cardiff duo Ben Thomas and Jacob Beetham have been identified as potential cover for Costelow, with both players having previous experience playing at fly-half, either at the international age-grade level or for their club. Gatland emphasized that the team is not simply “throwing in someone who has never experienced playing in that jersey.”
The Wales coach’s focus on finding a more physically robust fly-half option reflects the team’s desire to adapt their gameplay and tackle the challenges posed by the upcoming fixtures against the Springboks and Wallabies.
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