WORLD AT HENSON’S FEET
GAVIN HENSON will be given every chance to earn a Wales World Cup spot – if he can measure up to his Super League and NRL counterparts.
The former Wales rugby union international has yet to make his rugby league debut after joining League One battlers West Wales Raiders for 2021.
He is expected to make his bow against Widnes in the Challenge Cup next month but despite his inexperience at the 13-man game – and the fact he has just turned 39 – he has already been talked about for the World Cup.
Wales boss John Kear has not ruled that out and has already identified one area where Henson (right) would add to his team.
He said: “One of the problems we’ve had in recent years has been goal kicking – if he’s playing then you wouldn’t miss many goals would you?
“He’d certainly solve one of our little problems. You’ve got to have a look at him and see how he goes on.
“There are some exciting players coming through the Welsh systems, established players like Rhys Williams, Elliot Kear, Gil Dudson and Ben Flower, and we’re flying the flag for players like Bradman Best and Caleb Aitkens in the NRL.
“We can put a really competitive team out there but if Gavin Henson is playing well enough to warrant a place in the squad, why not pick him?”
STEPHEN HENDRY will face his best friend on tour, Matt Selt, in his first professional match for almost nine years at next week’s Gibraltar Open.
The record seven-time world champion retired in 2012 but announced a shock comeback last year, after a tour wildcard invite from Barry Hearn.
The Scot had a series of false starts but finally the big day will arrive next Tuesday against great golfing buddie Selt.
They clash in the event’s temporary home at Milton Keynes and
by HECTOR NUNNS
Hendry said: “That is unbelievable it is Matt. We are very good friends and it is amazing to play someone I know so well.
“In practice I am probably hitting the ball better than when I retired.
“But it means nothing when you go out there, I need the composure in a match.”
Hendry (inset) also revealed he has found retirement a struggle. Speaking to the Snooker
Scene podcast, he said: “It has been challenging to find my place. “Sportspeople have to come to terms with it ending. Being a pundit’s not the same.” Meanwhile, John Higgins brought Jordan Brown crashing down to earth at the Players Championship. Higgins hammered Brown 6-0 yesterday, just three days after the Antrim pro stunned Ronnie O’sullivan to win the Welsh Open.