Shanklin content after record-equalling performance

Tom Shanklin today admitted that he is just happy to be part of the Wales set-up after his record-equalling performance against Romania at the Millennium Stadium.

Cardiff Blues back Shanklin joined the likes of Ieuan Evans, Nigel Walker and Gareth Thomas in scoring four tries for Wales, as Mike Ruddock’s men ran Romania ragged in a 66-7 romp.

But Shanklin is by no means guaranteed a starting place when Wales take on Graham Henry’s All Blacks in Cardiff next Saturday.

Utility back Shanklin showcased his outstanding running skills as Wales scored 10 tries in total and recorded a sixth successive victory over Romania.

Shanklin openly admits that centre is his preferred position, but an ability to play with equal effect on the wing provides a major boost for Wales coach Mike Ruddock.

“I think that I prefer the centre, but I am happy to provide cover on the wing,” said Shanklin. “Being able to play on the wing enables me to be involved in the match-day 22,” he added.

Ruddock has pretty much finalised his 22 for the New Zealand encounter as Wales target a first victory over the All Blacks since 1953.

But the performances of players like Shanklin and Newport Gwent Dragons lock Luke Charteris, on his first international start, will spark debate in selection.

“It was 10 out of 10 for intent. It wasn’t a faultless performance, but when we did get it right, we scored some magnificent tries,” said Ruddock.

“Tom is right in there for a shout next week and we will now have an interesting selection meeting because there are a lot of close calls.

“I thought Luke Charteris had a great full debut. He took some quality lineout ball and made some big tackles, and he has put himself in the hunt, as have a lot of players,” Ruddock added.

“I am looking forward to the All Blacks game immensely. What I am trying to get is confidence, cohesion and a settled 22, and hopefully next week will give us a measure of where we are.

“I don’t want to take away the intent of this team to play rugby. As far as we are concerned, we want to keep generating excitement.”

Wales led 35-7 at half-time following a try double from Shanklin and further touchdowns by Stephen Jones, wing Rhys Williams and prop Gethin Jenkins.

In front of a 35,000 crowd, the second half proved a similar tale, with Shanklin adding two further touchdowns before flanker Dafydd Jones and substitute scrum-half Gareth Cooper completed the rout.

New Zealand, masterminded by former Wales coach Henry, will arrive in Cardiff on Sunday following today’s clash against Italy in Rome.

After running Tri-Nations champions South Africa close last weekend, Wales know that they really need to deliver following some agonising failures against world rugby’s big-guns during the past 12 months.

Ruddock, though, has done all that he can at this stage, and if the players continue to deliver performances of recent quality, then that long-overdue triumph could soon arrive.