Wales name squad for qualifiers

Wales have named their 22-man squad for the upcoming 2017 World Cup qualifiers with Salforf prop Craig Kopczak as captain.

Wales coach John Kear has whittled his original train-on squad down from 29 to 22 players ahead of the qualifying matches against Serbia and Italy.

Kopczak will again captain Wales during the tournament, with Phil Joseph as his vice captain.

The Dragons are boosted by the inclusion of Widnes Vikings’ Gil Dudson and Lloyd White, although fellow Super League stars Rhys Evans and Ben Flower aren’t in the squad.

The majority of last year’s European Championships winning squad have kept their place for the upcoming Qualifiers. 

Kear, whose side began their training camp on Wednesday, said: “I’m really pleased with the look of our squad as we aim to build on last year’s European Championships success.

“The addition of the likes of Gil Dudson and Lloyd White will add further experience to the squad and only make us stronger as a unit. It will also help some of the younger players in the squad.

“It is an important period for Wales as we aim to make the World Cup next season.

“We will be up against some challenges as Italy and Serbia are both strong sides who will boast some experienced players in their line-ups.

“Our group of players is a very hard working one and there is always a good atmosphere in camp, so we are looking forward to getting back to work.

“We want to build on our achievements last year.”

WALES SQUAD:

Elliot Kear
Rhys Williams
Calvin Wellington
Christiaan Roets
Regan Grace
Courtney Davies
Ollie Olds
Gil Dudson
Lloyd White
Craig Kopczak
Rhodri Lloyd
Lewis Reece
Phil Joseph
Steve Parry
Joe Burke
Jake Emmitt
Anthony Walker
Andrew Gay
Matty Fozard
Morgan Evans  
Ian Newbury
Connor Farrer