Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Prince Charles visit a boost for Welsh squad
T H E P r i nce of Wa les w i s he d Wa les’ World Cup squad well during a training ground visit ahead of Sunday’s semifinal against South Africa.
Prince Charles is in Tokyo for the enthronement of Japan’s new Emperor Naruhito and he spent around 30 minutes with the Wales players, coaches and management.
Captain Alun Wyn Jones presented him with a signed Wales shirt, surrounded by his team-mates.
“Thank you very much,” the prince said. “I am sure you will make us all proud.”
It was also a day to remember for Wales squad newcomer Owen Lane, who only arrived in Japan yesterday as a replacement for injured back-row forward Josh Navidi.
Players from the 20 competing nations were presented with World Cup caps during welcome ceremonies at the start of the tournament and 21-year-old Lane received his from the prince, accompanied by prolonged applause.
The prince chatted with several players, including Ken Owens, Jonathan Davies, Leigh Halfpenny and Dan Biggar, plus head coach Warren Gatland.
And before concluding his visit, he spoke with Welsh Rugby Union president Dennis Gethin, chairman Gareth Davies and Wales team manager Alan Phillips while the players trained i n glorious sunshine.
“It was great,” Phillips said. “These offers don’t come very often.
“I have met him a few times over the years when we have won Six Nations Grand Slams and different things, and his two boys follow the rugby. It’s just great to have him here.”