Gatland set to keep Welsh preparations at a low level

Jun 3 2008 by Gareth Griffiths, South Wales Echo

WARREN Gatland has revealed he sought advice from his fellow countrymen on how to prepare for the two Tests at altitude in South Africa.

The Wales coach has admitted he took advice from New Zealand Super 14 teams who advised him to prepare in Cape Town rather than travel straight to Bloemfontein for the first Test on June 7.

The Welsh squad will remain in Cape Town until Friday before flying in just a day before the international against the Springboks

“From the advice given to me I gather that the team won’t be in trouble under altitude conditions on day one and day eight,” said Gatland.

“On that basis we’ve decided to stay in Cape Town this week because research from New Zealand shows that it’s best to go up the day before the match.

“We are expecting a couple of very tough Tests on the Highveld.

“Cape Town is also a lovely place and at the end of our long season it’s good for the boys to be here.”

Gatland has also revealed he is looking forward to responding to comments made by new South African coach Peter De Villiers about testing out Wales’ fitness in the unusual conditions of altitude.

“We’ve heard that he is planning to run us off our feet and then put pressure on us,” said Gatland.

“That’s one we look forward to and it is going to be an interesting tussle.

“It is going to be a massive challenge for us against the world champions, but it’s something we’re looking forward to.

“It will give Wales a really good indication of where we are and how much work we’ve got to do.”

Injury has robbed Wales of key players such as Gavin Henson, Martyn Williams and Mike Phillips for the tour but the European champions still possess enough match-winners to cause an upset.

Chief among them is electric winger Shane Williams, Wales’ record try scorer and this season’s player of the RBS 6 Nations, whose enduring brilliance is crucial to his side’s hopes against South Africa.

Williams’ dazzling footwork has made him a lethal finisher and a favourite with the fans, earning a glowing tribute from Wales team-mate Alun-Wyn Jones.

“Over the past few years Shane has been a talisman for Welsh rugby,” said Jones, who starts at lock against the Springboks.

“He’s a bit like a fine wine as well – the older he’s got, the better he’s got.”