Blues skipper Rees forced out by surgery
EX-WALES captain Matthew Rees is to undergo testicular surgery and faces “an enforced spell away from rugby”, according to his club Cardiff Blues .
The 32-year-old hooker has won 58 caps and played in the 2009 British and Irish Lions Test series against South Africa.
The Blues said in a statement: “Club captain Matthew Rees is to have an enforced spell away from rugby. Hooker Rees, who joined the region from Scarlets this summer, will miss Friday’s league trip to Ulster as he will undergo testicular surgery. Cardiff Blues would like to take this opportunity to wish Matthew a speedy recovery, and we look forward to seeing him back in action in the future.”
Rees would have been expected to be named in the Wales squad for next month’s Tests against South Africa, Argentina, Tonga and Australia, but was left out as three players who made their Wales debuts on this summer’s tour to Japan – Cardiff Blues backs Rhys Patchell and Owen Williams, plus Scarlets hooker Emyr Phillips – featured.
And there are also returns for Scarlets stand-off Rhys Priestland and Perpignan lock Luke Charteris, who both missed large parts of last season due to injury.
There are 13 members of this summer’s Lions tour squad in Australia that was coached by Gatland included.
Gatland said: “We have an important campaign ahead as we look to test ourselves against some of the best sides in the world, but also add strength in depth to our squad as we look to the future.
“We face a huge game against South Africa first up and they will be coming to us after an impressive Rugby Championship campaign.
“Recent matches between us have been very close and physical, and that will be a great test for us to kick-off.
“All four matches will be a stern test, but we are looking forward to the challenge and looking forward to seeing what we can do on this stage.
“The Rugby World Cup is less than two years away, so we are looking to build as much depth in our squad as possible and to give vital international experience to our players.” SIR Alex Ferguson’s muchpublicised autobiography has managed to tempt bibliophobe Andy Murray. @andy_murray “I haven’t read a book for a few years but surely fergies autobiography is a must read!”
Meanwhile, mum Judy was, ahem, “star” spotting in Edinburgh. @judmoo “Lion King at Edinburgh Playhouse is like a total River Cityfest. Robbie, Molly and Hayley and counting...I’m in Shieldinch heaven.”
Ahead of the Ajax game, Neil Lennon’s juices were flowing. @Officialneil “Well not long now to another special night for players, fans and the club. T he home support is so vital for players on these nights...
“Being so close to that atmosphere is such a thrill and a privilege... bring that thunder” But for Rebecca Adlington there was only one show in town... @beckadlington “G REAT BRITISH BAKE OFF FINAL!!!!!!!!”