Gatland releases 8 from squad

Wales’ Rugby World Cup training squad has been reduced to 38 players, with big names falling including hooker Richard Hibbard.

The squad of 38 will return to the WRU National Centre of Excellence on Monday (17th August) to continue their preparations.

Eight players, Nicky Smith, Richard Hibbard, Rory Thornton, Dan Baker, Mike Phillips, Rhys Patchell, James Hook and Jack Dixon will return to their respective regions and clubs.

“It’s been a difficult task reducing the squad down and deciding who will meet up with us again on Monday,” said Wales head coach Warren Gatland.

“All the players involved over the past eight weeks have put a huge amount of effort in.  The intensity and dedication from the players out in Switzerland and Qatar has been really impressive.

“That makes our job a lot harder but as we continue to move into our rugby focused phase of training its important we reduce the squad number down.

“There will be disappointment from the players but its important to stress that the door is not closed.  We name our final Rugby World Cup squad on August 31st and a lot can happen between now and then.