Reece Webb blames 'uncertainty in Welsh rugby' for World Cup exit

Webb's decision means he will never represent Wales at the World Cup. Credit: GETTY IMAGES/Kevin Barnes

Reece Webb is the third veteran to leave the 54-man Welsh training squad for the World Cup later this year.

The 34-year-old has played twice for the British and the Irish Lions, followed by Alan Wyn Jones and Justin Tipurik, who retired from the national team this month.

Announcing the decision on Instagram, Webb said the «uncertainty and difficulties» in Welsh rugby meant he was forced to use the opportunity to play abroad at club level next season.

After a period of international exile in accordance with Wayne Pivak, Webb's former head coach was recalled by Warren Gatland to the Wales squad for the 2023 Six Nations Championship, during which Wales threatened to take a hit against England due to a delayed contract extension.

< p>Wales' 60 caps rule, which has since been abolished, meant that Webb could not play in the 2019 World Cup because he only had 28 caps when he moved to Toulon, so the scrum half will now complete his career without representing his country. at the Blue Ribbon Rugby Event.

“To be able to play for Wales again recently was a huge honor and I am proud to have been named to the World Cup practice team,” said Webb.< /p>

“However, while I would be happy to end my career playing for the Welsh region, the current uncertainty and difficulties in Welsh rugby meant there was little scope for a contract that would guarantee security for the coming years as I see that my professional career.

«So when the opportunity came up to play overseas during the off-season, which allowed me to secure more career security for myself and my family, I decided to accept the offer.

» I feel like now is the perfect time for me to step away from international rugby and just enjoy my final years as a professional rugby player

«I would like to thank the Ospreys for continuing to believe in me even when I was away in the Wales national team sometimes made me doubt my abilities, and in Warren, who gave me the chance to put on the famous red jersey again.”

Wales will play three World Cup warm-up matches against England (home and away 5 and 12 August) and South Africa (August 19 in Cardiff) before Gatland names his 33-player team to take to the global rugby scene this autumn.