THE WALES outhalf Rhys Priestland, one of the architects of an impressive series of performances that has taken serial underperformers in the World Cup to the last four, is a major doubt for the semi-final against France on Saturday because of a shoulder injury he sustained against Ireland last weekend.

Priestland sat out training yesterday, along with the captain, Sam Warburton, the centre Jamie Roberts and the secondrow Luke Charteris, who are all expected to be fit to face France. The injury to his left shoulder, which forced him off the field three minutes from the end of the victory over Ireland, was originally described as a stinger but it has yet to respond to treatment.

Priestland had not played at out-half for Wales until the international against England at Twickenham last August, when he was moved from fullback six minutes before the kick-off after Stephen Jones suffered a calf strain during the warm-up, but he has become a key member of the side, starting in four of their five matches in the World Cup and coming on as a replacement against Namibia.

His calmness under pressure and quick decision-making helped Wales qualify from a tough group, one of a group of young players who have played without inhibition in the tournament.

If he were to be ruled out when Wales announce their team, the coach Warren Gatland would have to choose between Stephen Jones and James Hook, who was not selected for the Ireland match.

“Rhys has had a bump and I would be there if needed and selected,” said Hook. “I have been in the camp for the last six weeks and I am familiar with the calls. If I am called upon, I would be chuffed. It was really difficult watching on Saturday, but you get caught in the emotion on the bench and get behind the boys.

“It was a terrific performance and it was nice to get on and have a couple of minutes to savour a little bit at the end. Rhys has taken his chance superbly and he fully deserves the credit he has been getting.”

Jones, playing in his fourth World Cup, said the younger players had energised the older ones. “It is a pleasure to be a part of this squad,” he said. “I have only started one match, but I am happy to be here. We have gathered momentum as we have gone along, the snowball has got bigger.”

Guardian Service