Wednesday Round-Up

Gatland - Marler comment 'banter'

Warren Gatland says the "Gypsy boy" comment aimed at Samson Lee by Joe Marler was "banter" and insists Wales have no issue with the England prop.

"It's not just in sport, I think it's in every aspect of life where people get so PC and just make massive issues about things," said coach Gatland. 

"It was just one of those things, a little bit of banter. We've accepted that and we've accepted his apology. Just move on. 

"Fifteen or 20 years ago, those things were sorted out with fists and stuff."

The RFU released a statement where Marler apologised and England head coach Eddie Jones reminded him of his responsibilities as an England player.

"In modern sport, players have got to be aware that there are microphones everywhere and you have to act accordingly," said Gatland.

Milner-Skudder out for season

Nehe Milner-Skudder's Super Rugby season is over after the Hurricanes announced that he will require shoulder surgery.

The All Blacks winger sustained the injury in last Friday's victory over the Blues and his loss will is a bitter blow for the 'Canes. 

Head coach Chris Boyd said, “Losing Nehe is a blow and obviously disappointing for him, but we’re really lucky in that we have a lot of depth in the outside backs and when you can bring a 53-test All Black like Cory Jane into the team you aren’t going too bad.
 
“We’ve been a little unlucky with our hookers so far this season with injuries, so it’s great to have Dane Coles back on the park. He’s our leader, he’s a guy who the team looks to for direction and he’s itching to play.”