Cooper relishing lead Welsh role

GARETH COOPER has been cast in a support role throughout much of his Test career — but he could end 2008 as Wales’ headline act today (2.30pm).

The reigning RBS Six Nations champions have moved heaven and earth just to get Cooper on the Millennium Stadium pitch against Australia. And the 29-year-old knows he can cash in by confirming his current status as Wales’ premier scrum-half — less than five months before the Lions squad for South Africa is announced.

Cooper had expected to be on Guinness Premiership duty for Gloucester in today’s Kingsholm appointment with Northampton.

Wales’ fourth November Test falls outside the IRB’s autumn window, so Gloucester had first call on his services this weekend.

But Gloucester sanctioned Cooper’s release, and he will make his third start of the month after impressing in defeats against world champions South Africa and world ranking leaders New Zealand.

“As far as I was concerned, I was playing for Gloucester. When I heard the news, it was pretty awesome, to be honest,” said Cooper.

“It has been great to get the number nine shirt back and have a run of games. I’ve felt I have improved with each game.

“I really enjoyed the summer tour to South Africa, gaining a lot of confidence from the first Test and then having a good second Test.

“I am just looking to improve my performances. I know if I play well this weekend, I know there is a good chance I will be involved in the Six Nations.”

Wales boss Warren Gatland has urged his team to “achieve something special” this afternoon.

It is three years since Wales last beat major southern hemisphere opposition — a 24-22 victory over the Wallabies.

Gatland’s men are desperate to end that frustrating wait, especially after dominating a half in each of their games against South Africa and New Zealand earlier this month.

Gatland said: “The statistics say Australia are a better team and they will rightly carry the favourites’ tag, but we have the opportunity to achieve something special out of this autumn campaign. It is a chance we do not want to miss.”

Meanwhile, Australia prop Al Baxter believes the Wallabies can complete a first unbeaten European tour since 1996.

“It is going to be a tough one, probably the toughest on tour,” he said. “The Wales guys are obviously disappointed from not getting a win against South Africa or New Zealand, and being Six Nations champions they’ve got some talent behind them.”