During the Six Nations the team’s preparations for the crucial trip to Scotland were thrown into chaos by that talk of a proposed merger between the Ospreys and the Scarlets so at one stage the players were going into a huge game not knowing where their domestic future lay.
Now another storm has blown up with coach Rob Howley sent home from Japan for alleged breaches of our game’s betting laws. I couldn’t believe it when I heard the news. I was completely shocked.
At this stage it is difficult to be able to say a great deal on the situation surrounding Rob because as things stand he is under investigation. When things like this happen there tends to be no smoke without fire, but until we know exactly what has gone on Wales have to put it to the back of their mind.
What I will say on Rob is that I hope he is OK. Whatever has happened in this situation, he is one of the proudest Welshmen on this planet. He’s had criticism in his role as attack coach, but he has been a devoted rugby servant to his country as a player and in management for more than 20 years.
You cannot argue with that. I am very friendly with Rob. I haven’t spoken to him as I didn’t feel I should bother him when he is with his family, but I want it to be known that he has my full support.
I know that he will feel absolutely awful about what has happened on the eve of the biggest tournament in the world. Given the two years Wales have had going into the World Cup and all the preparation they have done, it is a headache head coach Warren Gatland could have definitely done without.
Rob will know that more than anyone which is why I hope his family and friends have gathered around him back in Wales. I know the Welsh Rugby Union are supporting him too. That’s very important.
This story is from the September 22, 2019 edition of The Rugby Paper.
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This story is from the September 22, 2019 edition of The Rugby Paper.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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