Gatland bids emotional farewell to Wales

New Zealand-bound Warren Gatland has delivered an emotional farewell to Welsh fans after one last appearance in Cardiff – albeit against the team he coached for 12 years.

Gatland’s Barbarians, which featured Crusaders fullback David Havili, lost to Wayne Pivac’s Wales 43-33 yesterday, before Gatland choked back tears as he addressed the 62,000 fans at the Principality Stadium.

‘‘I just want to say thank you so much, it’s been brilliant for 12 years,’’ he said as he waved to the crowd.

‘‘I’ve loved this place. You guys have given me so much. My time in Wales has been absolutely brilliant and there will be a really special place in my heart for Wales and the people here.

‘‘Thank you, it’s been incredibly special and you guys have been a massive part of it.’’

Wales scored six tries but had to withstand a second-half fightback by the legendary invitational side, who trailed 33-7.

Gatland, who will now head home to coach the Chiefs, was given a hero’s welcome after a 12-year reign – the longest by any Wales coach – in which he led the team from the doldrums to No 1 in the world rankings and a second World Cup semifinal last month.

But his fellow New Zealander Pivac’s determination to put his stamp on Wales produced some interesting selections: First five-eighth Jarrod Evans, who missed out on World Cup selection, made his second appearance for Wales, and uncapped New Zealand-born wing Johnny Mcnicholl played after qualifying on residency.

Wales were sparked into into life after the break and halfback Tomos Williams’ quick tap penalty five minutes before halftime freed Evans to send Mcnicholl over.

Barbarians flanker Marco Van Staden was sent to the sinbin for killing the ball, and Wales took advantage as hooker Ken Owens profited from an overthrown lineout for a 19-7 interval lead.

Van Staden was still off the field when Owens claimed his second try to earn a hug from his opposite number Rory Best, the former Ireland captain who was playing his final game of professional rugby. The floodgates opened. Adams scored his second try, and Gareth Davies notched Wales’ sixth.

The Barbarians came back with tries by Shaun Stevenson, Craig Millar and Brumbies flanker Peter Samu to add to the opener by Josh Strauss to get within seven of Wales. But a late Leigh Halfpenny penalty, taking his tally to 13 points, ensured Wales won.