Recharged Welsh ready to advance

Robin McBryde says Wales are recharged and ready to go as they target a place in the World Cup quarter-finals today.

Ten days after they toppled Australia and took charge of Pool D, the Six Nations champions tackle Fiji in Oita.

Victory over a team they have beaten at the last two World Cup tournaments will secure a last-eight spot before their final group game against Uruguay next Sunday.

Wales have not topped their pool with a 100% record since the inaugural World Cup 32 years ago, but they are firmly on course to achieve that feat.

“We are in a good place,” assistant coach and forwards specialist McBryde said.

“We’ve obviously had a 10-day break, and we’ve been able to get recharged.

“From a forwards point of view, we are probably in a better shape than we ever have been.

“All 18 players are fit, well and ready to go. We are ready for the final push with a big two games.

“We are in a healthy position up front in order to withstand the two massive Tests ahead of us.

“And they will be big tests. We will have to be at our best and take it one day at a time.

“Get the Fiji game out of the way first, and then we can fully focus on Uruguay.”

Wales’ competition for places is underlined by their back-row riches.

Flanker James Davies and number eight Ross Moriarty are both handed first starts of the tournament, Josh Navidi switches to blindside, with Aaron Wainwright on the bench and Justin Tipuric not involved.

“It’s an exciting mix,” McBryde added. “It’s a very competitive part of the squad – they are keen to make the most of their opportunities.”