Wales want a southern scalp

Wales caretaker coach Rob Howley says the Grand Slam champions must start beating Southern Hemisphere sides away from home if they are to emerge as a genuine force in international rugby.

Howley, who will lead Wales on their three-Test tour of Australia in June while Warren Gatland recovers from injuries sustained in a fall at his home, says touring Down Under will be a "litmus test" of his side's credentials.

"The litmus test is the challenge in the southern hemisphere. Coming off a Grand Slam win, we have got a great opportunity in the summer," Howley said.

"It is a huge challenge to play three Tests in any southern hemisphere country.

"While we have achieved Triple Crowns and Grand Slams, you can only look at the record books and history to see how many times a national side has beaten a major southern hemisphere team away from home.

"It would be a great achievement to win against a southern hemisphere team away from home, whether that is Australia, South Africa or New Zealand. If you are going to talk about being involved in World Cup semifinals and finals, I think winning in the southern hemisphere is something that should be on your agenda," he added.

Wales face a Test against the Barbarians in Cardiff on June 2 before taking on the Wallabies in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney between June 9 and 23.

Howley believes the series opener in Brisbane will be crucial in setting the tone for the matches that follow.

"The first Test will be important in terms of momentum," said Howley, who confirmed that Wales would send a 15-man advance party over to Australia in order to acclimatise properly for the opening Test.

"When you lose a first Test it puts you on the back foot, so sending 15 players over prior to that Test series suggests we feel that we have got a great opportunity," he added.

AFP