Patchell and Williams doubtful for Blues
CARDIFF BLUES have big injury concerns over key duo Rhys Patchell and Lloyd Williams ahead of Saturday’s crucial Judgement Day clash with the Ospreys at the Principality Stadium.
Utility back Patchell picked up a hamstring problem during the Arms Park victory over the Dragons last week, while scrum-half Williams suffered bangs to his knee and head in the same game.
Both men are now facing a race against time to make a match that the Blues have to win to keep alive their hopes of qualifying for the Champions Cup.
“We’ve got a couple of assessments that we are going through at the moment,” said head coach Danny Wilson.
“The obvious one is Rhys who is doubtful, while we have got Lloyd as well.
“Fingers crossed they come through and hopefully we will be in a decent place to go into the game.
“We are probably more hopeful with Lloyd, but if I am honest there’s doubt with both.”
If, as seems likely, Patchell is ruled out, then one would expect Dan Fish to switch to full-back, with Aled Summerhill a candidate to start on the wing.
Losing Williams would probably see Lewis Jones come in at No 9, with highly-rated youngster Tomos Williams another option.
The Ospreys, for their part, will be without Alun Wyn Jones, Justin Tipuric, Dan Baker, Jeff Hassler, Paul James, Tyler Ardron and JJ Engelbrecht, while they are waiting on the fitness of Sam Underhill.
Meanwhile, the Scarlets hope to have Wales centre Scott Williams back for his first regional outing of the season in their Judgement Day meeting with the Dragons.
The 34-cap Williams hasn’t played since suffering knee ligament damage in the famous World Cup victory over England at Twickenham in September.
“He’s training with us fully and training very, very well,” said Scarlets coach Wayne Pivac.
“He’s just got one more test to go through on Thursday. If he passes that, he will be involved in the 23. There’s a very strong likelihood that he will be.”