Another Wales player pulls out of World Cup training squad

NEWS: Wales lock Corey Hill has opted to pursue a club contract outside of Wales and has become the latest player to withdraw from the Wales World Cup training squad.

The 31-year-old lock, who had been playing in Japan, was recalled by Wales head coach Warren Gatland following two years out of Test rugby.

Gatland named a 54-man group last month for the tournament in France later this year.

Lock Alun Wyn Jones, flanker Justin Tipuric and scrum-half Rhys Webb, who have 291 Wales caps between them, subsequently announced their retirements from international rugby.

And Cardiff prop Rhys Carre was then released from the squad after he failed to meet individual performance targets.

It is understood that Gatland has no plans to call up a replacement for Hill, whose new club want him available for them during the World Cup period in September and October.

Hill made his Wales debut against Australia in 2016, while a 32nd and latest appearance came during the 2021 Six Nations against France.

“I am gutted to be leaving the squad, but an opportunity has come up and I need to take it for my family,” Hill said.

“Wishing the boys all the best at the World Cup, and I hope to be back in a Wales jersey in the future.”

Gatland’s remaining second-row options in his squad are Will Rowlands, Adam Beard, Dafydd Jenkins, Ben Carter, Rhys Davies, Teddy Williams and Christ Tshiunza.