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Rugby Union

Thomas backed to return for World Cup

27/08/2007

Wales captain Gareth Thomas should be fit for his side's first World Cup game despite requiring 20 stitches to patch up cuts to his face sustained in the closing stages of the Dragons' 34-7 loss to France on Sunday.

The winger collided with Thierry Dusautoir and was forced from the field on a stretcher after being left "dizzy" and "exhausted" according to the side's medical staff.

"It was more exhaustion than a serious injury, although it didn't look good when Gareth came off. There was also a bump earlier that affected his vision," coach Gareth Jenkins confirmed.

Although several of the Wales sides picked up injuries in the final warm-up match before their September 9th opener against Canada, all are expected to shake off the problems in time for the big kick-off.

Scrum-half Dwayne Peel's calf strain, along with Kevin Morgan's knee injury and Chris Horman's shoulder complaint, will all recover after a few days rest.

Scotland skipper Jason White is also feeling the effects of his team's weekend loss after South Africa romped to a 27-3 win at Murrayfield.

The Sale flanker is on his way back from a nine-month lay-off with a serious knee injury and admits that he still has a little way to go.

"The intensity was a notch up from the Ireland game and personally I'm very disappointed that we missed a chance to push the Boks close," he said.

"My own sharpness is getting better but I'm realistic and know it will take a couple of games to feel that I'm playing naturally. However, I'm pretty happy with my progress."