Warren Gatland wants to call-up former England Grand Slam-winning winger
Yesterday at 05:03 AM
It's been a tough year for Wales, who haven’t secured a single win in 2024, leaving Warren Gatland scratching his head. But could a surprise solution lie across the Severn Bridge?
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Enter Jack Bates, the 23-year-old Bristol Bears wing who lit up La Rochelle despite his side enduring a 35-7 hammering.
Bates delivered a moment of magic, collecting a pinpoint cross-kick under pressure from Benjamín Elizalde and leaving three defenders for dead with dazzling footwork and raw pace.
His try was a sensational solo effort – the kind of spark Wales desperately need in their faltering backline.
Bates’ Welsh roots revealed!
The former England U20s star, who helped secure a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2021, could yet swap his white jersey for a red one. Thanks to his Cardiff-born grandmother, Bates is Welsh-qualified, and performances like this are bound to catch Gatland's eye. With just six tries in 41 appearances for Bristol, he's still maturing, but his instincts, aerial prowess, and speed make him a tantalising prospect.
Wales’ back three struggles
Wales’ backline options have been stretched thin, and while Josh Adams is back from injury, there's little consistency elsewhere. Rio Dyer, Blair Murray, Josh Hathaway, and Mason Grady all show promise, but none have dominated at club or international level.
Meanwhile, Bates is thriving in the Gallagher Premiership and Champions Cup, proving he can perform against elite opposition. He offers versatility too, capable of slotting into midfield when needed – another bonus for a Wales squad crying out for depth.
Could Bates be the spark for Gatland's Wales?
As Wales look to rebuild and rediscover their winning ways, they can’t afford to overlook players like Jack Bates. If his recent exploits are anything to go by, he could bring much-needed dynamism and an X-factor to Gatland's struggling squad. Watch this space!
Editors picks:
- Stuart Lancaster linked with surprise move amid sacking reports
- Jonny Wilkinson graciously accepts knighthood… only to find out he hasn't got one
- Wales rugby star Gavin Henson quit rugby to run his local pub
- Matt Dawson find love again after getting divorced following Question of Sport axing
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don't instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it's worth it.
Ready to test your knowledge? Let's see if you've still got it. Good luck!
More Quizzes:
- Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?
- Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?
- Can You Name Every British & Irish Lions Captain Since 2001?
- Quiz: Can You Name the Top 10 Most-Capped Springbok Men's Players?
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