Wales captain Matthew Rees looks certain to miss the World Cup after it emerged the Scarlets hooker could need surgery on his injured neck.
Wales coach Warren Gatland, who has already lost broken leg victim Morgan Stoddart for the tournament which starts in New Zealand next month, had hoped that any operation on the 30-year-old might be delayed until after the World Cup.
But Gatland admitted that 47-time capped Rees, who skippered Wales in the Six Nations and was a Test starter on the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa, could go under the knife in the coming weeks.
"He has had an injection, but he is still in a lot of pain," said Gatland.
"It looks like he will need an operation sooner, rather than later. We will have to sit down and discuss things with him."
Wales begin their World Cup campaign against defending champions South Africa in Wellington on September 11 before facing Samoa, Fiji and Namibia in a tough-looking pool.
AFP
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The entire All Blacks apparel line has been updated for 2013/14. Check out the New Zealand All Blacks polo.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Gilbert Blitz 8S rugby cleat is a great cleat at a great price of $69.99. Get a new pair of cleats today.
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The All Blacks Performance t-shirt is black with hints of blue from the training jersey. Very Cool.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.
