DON’T WRITE OFF WALES, ROARS GATLAND
WARREN GATLAND warned Wales’s Six Nations opponents that it’s foolish to dismiss his side’s chances this year. Wales finished fifth at last year’s tournament, when Gatland was away preparing for the Lions series, and last won the tournament in 2013. Some bookies have Wales at 15-1 to lift the trophy in March. But Gatland quipped: ‘It’s a great bet. It is always a good position for us to be in where people tend to write you off. ‘Our players have always thrived on being underdogs — people put the boot into them and they respond. ‘I am pretty happy with the draw — Scotland first up is a good challenge for us. ‘If you can win those first two games you have a chance of winning the championship.’ Gatland named uncapped duo James Davies — the 27-yearold Scarlets flanker who is the younger brother of injured Lions centre Jonathan — and Worcester wing Josh Adams in his 39-man squad. Adams, 22, is the top scorer in the Aviva Premiership with nine tries. ‘He’s got genuine speed,’ said Gatland. ‘It is a great chance for us to have a look at him in an area where we are trying to create some more depth.’ Gatland has also selected a number of injured players. Taulupe Faletau (knee) and Hallam Amos (shoulder) will only be available near the back end of the tournament, but George North could be fit for the opener at the Principality on February 3. Another included is Rhys Webb, despite the scrum-half being ineligible next season when he moves to Toulon. ‘We just felt that given the quality of player he is, when he is playing well he can make a big difference,’ said Gatland. ‘We want to do well in this tournament.’