Hang your hopes on Hook

As far as World Cup preparations go, Wales’ was better than average. Their defeat to England in the first warm-up match, although disappointing provided a number of positives, most notably a strong second half performance.

The Welsh reversed the previous weeks result when the sides met in Cardiff; with a resolute Wales defence stealing the headlines this time round. The only try of the game was scored by James Hook, playing at full-back but standing in the fly-half channel as he weaved his way through the English defenders and powered over the line. However, the Welsh playmakers’ opportunities to create and finish these chances are being limited by the number on his back. Hook is Wales’ best player; he has a strong running game, good distribution, a solid kicking game as well as attacking flair in abundance. If Wales are to fulfil their potential and upset the odds at the RWC, James Hook must play at fly-half.

Supporters must omit memories and thoughts of interceptions and forced passes from his previous spell in the number ten shirt. Hook has grown as a player in the past few seasons and, if given the chance, could prove to be one of the players of the tournament in New Zealand.

Stephen Jones has been a fantastic servant to Welsh rugby and still has a huge role to play, but not as a starter. Jones’ role must now be as a ‘closer,’ much in the way Ronan O’Gara is. A player that can use their vast experience to play the territory game, accumulate points with clockwork-like goal-kicking and mentor the younger players through tough situations.

Wales should get through their group and on their day, are capable of beating anyone.