Friday Round-Up
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Friday Round-Up
Boost for Wales: After Monday’s horrendous injury news Wales were boosted on Thursday with positive updates on long-term absentees Liam Williams and Samson Lee.
Both players came through training without any hitches and now seem likely to get 80 minutes against Uruguay in Wales’ World Cup opener.
Influential lock Alun Wyn Jones is also on track after picking up a slight knock against Ireland.
"Alun Wyn Jones is fine, Samson Lee and Liam Williams have played a full part in training. Samson has played a full part in scrummaging," said Howley.
"I think it’s fair to say Liam and Samson would have to play against Uruguay to be involved against England and they are likely starters against Uruguay. Time on the field is vital after so long out.
"From what I am led to believe (Jones) will be fit for Uruguay.”
Hansen on All Blacks attitude: All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen believes the team attitude has changed significantly since their last Rugby World Cup overseas in 2007.
The reigning champions are yet to win a title overseas but have only lost three matches in the last four years.
"In 2007, I think we rocked up a little arrogant, like previous All Blacks teams over the years may have," said Hansen.
"We were too comfortable, having come off being the number one team for a long time and just expected it to happen.
"Rugby, or any sport, will tell you that if you rock up to a contest involving another person and expect it to happen then the other guy or athletes will have something to say about that.
"There is not an expectation that we should win it by right. We're not going to defend the World Cup because it's not ours to defend. It has already gone back."
The reigning champions are yet to win a title overseas but have only lost three matches in the last four years.
"In 2007, I think we rocked up a little arrogant, like previous All Blacks teams over the years may have," said Hansen.
"We were too comfortable, having come off being the number one team for a long time and just expected it to happen.
"Rugby, or any sport, will tell you that if you rock up to a contest involving another person and expect it to happen then the other guy or athletes will have something to say about that.
"There is not an expectation that we should win it by right. We're not going to defend the World Cup because it's not ours to defend. It has already gone back."
