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Rugby Union

Guscott questions Farrell call-up

14/08/2007

Former England rugby union international Jeremy Guscott has questioned the policy of naming league convert Andy Farrell in the squad for the upcoming Rugby World Cup.

Guscott, who won 65 caps during his ten-year England career, cast doubt on the "experiment" to bring Farrell through as a dual code international.

"Personally I am surprised Farrell is going," Guscott told BBC Radio Five Live.

"I think the experiment, as I would call it, with Andy has run its course.

"Once upon a time he was a world-class player and obviously has a great reputation in rugby league.

"But given what he has done in union to date, I think he can count himself very fortunate to be going on this trip."

Farrell has been called up for the 30-man squad as one of four specialist centres – alongside Leicester's Dan Hipkiss and Newcastle pair Jamie Noon and Mathew Tait – and utility man Mike Catt.

And despite widespread support for head coach Brian Ashton's policy of selecting an experienced squad to defend the Webb-Ellis Trophy, Guscott says he would have preferred to see some of the younger players making the trip.

"They are youngsters and have got time on their side, and people may say they can go in four years' time," Guscott continued.

"But what a great experience it would be for them to go right now."

Among the younger members of the training squad to miss out is promising Wasps flanker James Haskell, who had a superb season in the Guinness Premiership and played a major part in the London side's Heineken Cup victory over Leicester.

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