KEV KICKS OFF

I HAVE got to say I hope all the Gazette readers are OK after Storm Emma. I’m sure the majority of us loved playing in the snow and the kids enjoyed a few extra days off school. Unfortunately the weather cancelled all the sport in the area which is disappointing but I’m sure fixtures will be replayed when the light nights come.

It’s going to be interesting which 15 Warren Gatland will pick for Sunday’s match against Italy. I watched Scrum V last Sunday with Jonathan Davies and Nicky Robinson both going for different 10s. Jiffy went with Patchell and Robinson went with Anscombe. They are both attacking players and it will also be interesting where they will use George North, whether it will be in the centre or on the wing.

I’m not sure his passing off both hands is good enough for centre but we wait and see. I know Northampton are not impressed with him as he declined to play for the Saints in their defeat to Sale on the weekend, I’m not sure if that was a WRU call or the player. You think he would have wanted some game time. He’s hardly played this season.

I think a lot of the international players need to remind themselves it’s the club that’s got them to the top and loyalty goes two ways. I hope James Davies gets on the bench. He’s been outstanding for the Scarlets over the last few seasons and deserves a chance. QUESTION: What do you think will be the score against Italy on Sunday?

I think Italy will be competitive for 40-50 minutes then they will blow up. Our superior fitness levels should kick in and if our attacking skills are on fire, it could be 40-50 points. I think with Patchell or Anscombe at 10 we should play a high tempo game and get the ball out wide and expose the Italians’ disorganised defence. Wales have got to do basics right first, get set piece working etc scrum and lineout then up the intensity in all areas and Wales should be comfortable winners. C’mon Wales!