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WRU statement clarifies what went on with their disappearing numbers
By Grant Constable
The Welsh Rugby Union have had to clarify what happened when just minutes after kick-off against Argentina in their quarter-final in Marseille, the numbers started falling off the players' backs.
Ten minutes in, the likes of scrum-half Gareth Davies had already been completely stripped of his number, while others were half torn off and clearly on the way to going altogether.
It became very obvious very quickly, and fans were quick to comment on the fairly unique situation.
It turned out to be an amusing indication of who was involved physically, as fly-half Dan Biggar's number appeared to be perfectly intact when he crossed for an excellent try in the 14th minute.
UK broadcaster ITV even closed the half with a video montage of numbers falling off in super slow motion.
Most players seemed to switch to different shirts in the sheds, but some were still missing numbers, leaving commentators silent at times when they quite obviously struggled to identify players.
The WRU (Welsh Rugby Union) have today clarified that shirt manufacturer Macron were not to blame.
"As for all other matches during France 2023 we used a local, tournament-recommended printer to print the numbers on our jerseys for Saturday’s quarter-final meeting with Argentina," said the WRU statement.
"Unfortunately, it would appear these printers did not use the correct process for attaching the numbers.
"For clarity, Macron supply high quality kit to the WRU without numbers and the printing process follows. The error had nothing to do with the quality of the shirts nor their manufacture nor any individual member of staff."
It was a disappointing day for Wales all around, as they went on to lose a closely contested match 29-17, after Argentina legend Nicolas Sanchez snatched an intercept try and sealed the win with a late penalty.
Wales leave the tournament with plenty of positives after they were unbeaten in the pool stages, while Los Pumas continue their journey and will face New Zealand in the semi finals in Paris on Friday.
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Latest Comments
Let's be clear: Foster did not back unaquivocally players such as Vaa'i, Tamaiti and Roigard. Yes, he selected them in the squad, but it's a stretch to say he backed them. Those three players have only been backed fully this year (and thrived) under the new regime. There was massive hesitation to give those three guys serious game time in games of consequence.
It's another not-so-subtle dig from the old dynasty at any achievements Razor may be credited for.
Roigard in particular was a mind-baffling omission from the finals of the WC. After being the AB's best player against SA in the pre-WC match, he was not sighted in the big games that followed. Roigard is the type of guy who can win a game with a moment of brilliance, yet the established but uninspiring Christie was preferred to close out a close WC final.
So please, Fozzie, spare us the barely veiled laments about your unfair treatment and unseen achievements. The fact you feel you have to point them out is telling in itself. And it shows that despite saying you've moved on, you and your mate Hansen most definitely haven't.
Go to commentsHe's just a wannabe troll, mate.
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