Warren Gatland’s controversial pick for Wales captain pulls out minutes before Reds clash
Wales second-row Cory Hill in action against the Wallabies.
Wales were dealt a setback ahead of kick-off in their final tour match against the Reds in Brisbane after captain Cory Hill withdrew due to “personal reasons”.
The 32-year-old second-row was a surprise choice as skipper for Friday’s game due to being involved in an incident three years ago that saw a woman’s house damaged.
Subsequently the build-up to the fixture has led to lock Hill having to field questions from the media about that day in 2021, revealing that he regretted the incident.
Late withdrawal
He was set to lead Wales out on Friday for the Suncorp Stadium clash but minutes before kick off the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) confirmed Hill would not be playing.
The reason given on the WRU’s social media channels was “personal reasons” as Dayfdd Jenkins shifted from the bench to start, with Dewi Lake wearing jersey 19.
Scrum-half Gareth Davies was named as the new skipper for the meeting as Wales looked to respond to a 2-0 series whitewash against the Wallabies with a triumph.
Earlier this week, Hill had to field questions from the media about the incident, which he apologised for, with coach Warren Gatland also being quizzed.
“That incident happened three years ago. Do I regret it? Yes, of course I do,” Hill told a press conference in Brisbane.
“I made a mistake and I am sorry. There is always going to be negative reaction to mistakes someone has made in the past.
“I have been honest and open here. The issue was dealt with by the club and authorities three years ago.
“It was a mistake. I hold my hand up and I am sorry for what happened.”
Gatland added at the time: “We had a chat about what happened in the past and had a heart to heart about that.
“Cory said to me he made a mistake three years ago and he regrets what happened. Young men do make mistakes.
“For me, it is about putting that to one side and picking someone with that rugby experience and knowledge who has that rugby respect from the rest of the players in the squad.
“I have been clear that people do make mistakes in life and make some decisions or actions that they wish didn’t happen.
“We sat down and had an honest conversation about things. Cory was very open with me about that. I am sort of not looking at the past, but looking at the future.”
