O’Sullivan and Gatland’s clash more than a sideshow

After a limited period in the country Gatland also realised that given the quality of backs available to him, he needed an out-and-out open side to complement the running game he was likely to pursue.

After studying the four Welsh regional teams in December, it was clear to him that Martyn Williams still stood head and shoulders over all other contenders. Once again his persuasive powers were seen to best effect in convincing the outstanding Cardiff flanker to come out of retirement. Williams, along with Ronan O’Gara and Vincent Clerc, is already a contender for player of the Six Nations tournament.

The other key decision by Gatland was to appoint Ryan Jones as captain. By omitting World Cup captain Gareth Thomas from the squad, he removed a figure whose strong character had created problems for previous coaches Mike Ruddock and Gareth Jenkins. By overlooking a former captain in Stephen Jones, he sent a clear message that the Llanelli stalwart had a fight on his hands for the out-half slot with the impressive James Hook.