Wales Gear Themselves For Testing Examination

Wales step into the rugby cauldron once again tomorrow afternoon with coach Steve Hansen claiming that victory over South Africa in Bloemfontein is certainly not of paramount importance.
But the disappointment of finishing the Six Nations season on a low, has helped to focus the collective attention of this Welsh side.
Japan were the beaten opponents when Wales broke their duck on South African soil – in the 1995 World Cup – but today’s opposition promise to be infinitely tougher. “The past means nothing to any of us,” said coach Steve Hansen.
“We have identified a pool of players who will hopefully mature into a very consistent international side. We don’t need to look back to look ahead.
“Games and facts like that mean nothing. All I want from the players is for them to go out with pride and passion and to come having played well and to the top of their ability.
“If we do that and we keep doing that, results will come.”
Hansen has made just one change from the team beaten by the Baa baas – Michael Owen, the Pontypridd no.8 comes in on the blindside flank for Bath’s Gavin Thomas.
Owen will add height and presence to the line out which will be vitally important.
“He is a fine player in good form and he doesn’t make too many mistakes,” said Hansen.
“We have to perform or we will struggle. I have never yet known a bad South African side, so why should we run into one now,” added Hansen.