Six nations: Phillips appointed Welsh team manager

THE Welsh Rugby Union have appointed former Cardiff, Wales and British Lions hooker Alan Phillips as the new national team manager.

An elected national representative on the general committee of the Welsh Rugby Union for the last four years, Phillips takes over the role from fellow representative David Pickering, and will working in tandem with national team coach Graham Henry and his squad.

Welsh Rugby Union chairman Glanmor Griffiths said: ‘‘I am highly delighted that Alan Phillips has taken on this pivotal role in our national set-up.

‘‘First and foremost he is a rugby man through and through, and a man at ease on both the international and the local club scene as well as among the professional players of today.

Phillips said: ‘‘Playing for Wales had always been an ambition of mine and when I achieved that goal I naturally felt that I could never achieve a greater honour.

‘‘This appointment, though, has really stirred my emotions and the thought of the possibilities and responsibilities that it involves is a huge motivator. To say that I am honoured is an understatement.’’