Duo boost for Wales semi clash
WALES have received a fitness boost ahead of the World Cup semi-final against France, a match that some within the camp are billing as the biggest in the country’s history.
Lock Luke Charteris and fly-half Rhys Priestland were both forced off with shoulder injuries during Saturday’s quarter-final win over Ireland, but hopes are high the pair will recover by the weekend.
“It is pretty sore, but it should be good to go,” Charteris said yesterday of his knock, which limited him to just 40 minutes against the Irish.
Of Priestland, Wales skills coach Neil Jenkins said: “We are waiting to see what happens the next couple of days and hopefully he will be fine.”
Warren Gatland’s youthful side have already secured their best performance at a World Cup since the inaugural tournament in 1987, but could go one better on Saturday by beating England’s conquerors to reach the final.
Jenkins said: “This is certainly the biggest game I have been involved in, and the same for Welsh rugby history.”