Wales shocked by player’s departure

A veteran campaigner in the pack has reportedly left the Wales squad with immediate effect after feeling disrespected by head coach Warren Gatland.

According to the British Daily emailPreparations for the Wales tour in July and the build-up to Saturday’s match against world champions Springboks have been marred by controversy as hooker Sam Parry abruptly left the team.

It is understood the Osprey front-row forward left the Vale of Glamorgan training camp. With seven Test caps, the 32-year-old was part of a 36-man training squad hoping to compete against the Springboks and secure a place on the southern hemisphere tour.

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However, Parry was reportedly shocked to learn he was only there to help with the preparations. Previous grievances include being given less equipment than teammates and being an afterthought during team meetings.

The Welsh Rugby Union had not responded for comment on the matter.

Parry’s departure preceded an injury to fellow hooker Elliot Dee, which saw Gatland call up Cardiff rookie Efan Daniel. Skipper Dewi Lake and Evan Lloyd will join Daniel as hookers for the Australian tour.

Injuries to prop Henry Thomas and lock-down Cory Hill have also crippled the Welsh contingent.

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