Williams warns of burnout dangers

VETERAN Welsh and Lions flanker Martyn Williams believes that many current international players are in danger of burnout, and has personally called time on another summer tour.

The 34-year-old may have been willing to push his body to include two assignments with the Barbarians to round off the season – he is in the squad to face Ireland at Thomond Park tonight (7.45pm) – but insisted on taking a break from Wales’ tour to New Zealand.

After 12 months of virtual non-stop activity for Cardiff, Wales, and the British and Irish Lions, Williams felt he could take no more, especially in a forthcoming World Cup year that will impose even more intense pressure on the top players.