**Ex-Wales Star Highlights Warren Gatland’s Mistake for Matt Sherratt to Correct**
Former Wales center Tom Shanklin has bluntly pointed out a mistake made by Warren Gatland that he believes Matt Sherratt, the Cardiff coach, will rectify as he steps into the role of interim head coach for the national team.
Sherratt has been entrusted to lead Wales for the remaining three matches of the Six Nations following the early end to Gatland’s second stint in charge due to 14 consecutive Test level defeats.
With just a week to prepare for his first game in charge, Wales will face Ireland at the Principality Stadium next Saturday. Shanklin has identified one immediate adjustment Sherratt is likely to make as he takes over from Gatland.
In particular, Sherratt’s decision to utilize Cardiff playmaker Ben Thomas in his preferred position of inside center instead of fly-half, as was done by Gatland, has drawn criticism. Additionally, Gatland’s choice to field Owen Watkin at 12 and Nick Tompkins at 13 against France in the tournament opener raised eyebrows.
Commenting on Sherratt’s potential lineup changes, Shanklin remarked, “Will he be playing a 12 at 10, is that what you’re saying? A 13 at 12 and a 12 at 13. There’s a lot of talk about it. Ben Thomas is a 12. 97 per cent of the games he plays are at 12. Why move him to 10?”
Shanklin believes that Sherratt’s attention to detail in attack could benefit Wales, especially given their recent struggles in this area. He highlighted the need for a technical coach like Sherratt to address Wales’ offensive strategies such as alignment, running lines, and attacking options which have been lacking.
Describing Sherratt’s approach to the game, Shanklin stated, “He talks about being more dynamic and more entertaining. That’s what we want to see. You can see that with Cardiff. They play to the width, they want to play to the edges. They have different options and they play out the back a bit more.”
He acknowledged the challenge that Sherratt faces in implementing these changes within a short timeframe but expressed optimism about the appointment, emphasizing the potential for a more cohesive and effective attacking style under Sherratt’s guidance.