Hibbard impressed by Dee’s progress
RICHARD Hibbard is backing club rival Elliot Dee to become Wales’ first choice hooker at next year’s World Cup.
The former Wales No.2 has joined the Dragons from Gloucester and will battle it out with 24-yearold Dee at Rodney Parade.
And Hibbard believes Wales’ summer Tests against South Africa and Argentina will give Dee,
right, a chance to stamp his claim for the jersey.
“Elliot will compete with Ken Owens for that World Cup spot,” said Hibbard. “I rate him very highly; he’s had a fantastic season and played very well for Wales when he got his chance.
“He was fantastic last season and I think he will take his opportunity on this tour and prove himself against a world class player like Agustin Creevy.
“He is young and hungry and his work rate is second to none. He is always one of the hardest workers on the pitch. He’s got bags of potential and with him gaining experience he’ll be a fine player.”
With Wales opting to rest a number of their more experienced players this summer, Hibbard believes it will help them come the World Cup with Dee, Seb Davies and Aaron Wainwright set to benefit.
He said: “I think Wales will go well on the summer tour. Those youngsters want to impress and there are a lot of boys who have an opportunity to put their hands up. It’s going to be tough but the depth Wales have is now really getting
there.”