SINCKLER IS A ‘TIME-BOMB’

KYLE SINCKLER is an ‘emotional time-bomb’ that could explode in Cardiff, according to Warren Gatland. As the Wales head coach cast doubts on the tighthead prop’s temperament, he was also critical of England’s preparations, warning Eddie Jones that his side might get stuck behind every tractor in Wales as they travel over the Severn during rush-hour this evening. Gatland picked Sinckler, 25, for all three of his Lions Tests in New Zealand two years ago and knows that he can be riled. ‘There is a challenge with his temperament,’ claimed the Wales coach. ‘He’s aware of it. Other players are aware of it. We’ve already seen in the Six Nations he’s been involved in a couple of incidents. ‘Emotionally, he can be a bit of a time-bomb. I’m not saying anything that people aren’t aware of. We won’t be trying to antagonise him because that’s not in our make-up. We’ll just go out there and play. ‘Hopefully he goes out and has a good game and keeps his emotions in control because that’s a big challenge for him.’ England have opted against taking part in the traditional ‘captain’s run’ training session at the Principality Stadium this lunchtime and Gatland warned: ‘England are making a significant mistake by travelling today. There’s a good chance there’ll be tractors and buses holding them up! So that will be an experience for them.’ The stadium roof will be open, as requested by England. Wales’ win percentage drops from 61 with the roof closed to 52 when it is open and Gatland wants it shut for every game. He said: ‘I’d be going to the Six Nations and banging my fists on the table saying, “It’s our roof, we should be able to make the decision”.’