Gatland spoiled for choice in back row

Warren Gatland broke into a wry smile when the question came around about Wales’s back-row options.

While england continue to scratch their heads at the breakdown, Gatland had just watched his fifth- choice no 7 collect the man-of-the-match award against argentina.

In a stadium where stray dogs roam the terraces, James davies spent 80 minutes hounding the much-fancied Pumas.

the week before, fourth-choice candidate ellis Jenkins claimed the same prize against South africa while Sam Warburton, Justin tipuric and Josh navidi all watched on television at home.

‘We could play in a sevens series with all these loose forwards and I think they’d be champions of the world,’ said Gatland , who also has toby Faletau, ross Moriarty and aaron Shingler in his ranks. ‘We’re blessed at the moment. It’s great for everyone to feel like they’re not guaranteed selection.’

It took davies eight minutes to blitz down the right wing for the first try before George north added a second to give Wales an unassailable 17-3 lead at half-time. Wales had just 35 per cent of the possession but they delivered a defensive masterclass — making 201 tackles compared to argentina’s 78.

the Welsh defensive effort was another feather in the cap for assistant coach Shaun edwards, whose services are in high demand in england. Wales, however, should fight to keep him.

‘I think there are two or three world-class defensive coaches out there and Shaun’s definitely one of them,’ said Gatland. ‘He worked hard this week and the guys were excited about defending.

‘He’s committed to us until the World Cup but if other opportunities come along, he needs to consider those because he’s out of contract after the rugby World Cup. I’d love for him to stay.’