Martyn Williams dream of winning 100 Wales caps could be over after the Lions flanker was the shock omission from Warren Gatland’s Six Nations squad. The Western Mail's Gareth Griffiths reflects on the shock news.
"The 35-year-old, currently stranded on 98 Wales Test caps, was sensationally dropped last night from the 28-man party named by the Gatland.
"The Kiwi coach named uncapped back-row duo Josh Turnbull and Toby Faletau with Dan Lydiate, Sam Warburton, Jonathan Thomas, Andy Powell and Ryan Jones completing his back-row options.
"Scarlets flanker Turnbull and Dragons No 8 Faletau are among five uncapped players alongside Scarlets outside-half Rhys Priestland, Blues tighthead Scott Andrews and Ospreys prop Ryan Bevington. It is another bitter blow for Williams who last week learned he is set to be released by the Blues at the end of the season.
"Gatland persuaded Williams out of international retirement when he took over after the 2007 World Cup, citing lack of alternative openside options. But the emergence of Warburton and now Turnbull has started the changing of the guard, with Gatland opting for youth over experience for this tournament."
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