WALES

James launches scathing attack on Wales

Thursday 26th June 2008

Competition: James believes he is better than Mark Jones

Young Welsh wing Tom James has blasted the Welsh management after his lack of playing time on the recent two-Test tour to South Africa.

James, who also toured Australia last year, didn't feature in the first Test and only played the last three minutes of the second Test - both of which ended in defeat for Wales.

In a candid interview with James' local paper, The Rhymney Valley Express he reveals how he was told he would play a big part in the second Test, only to come on when the game was up and barely three minutes on the clock - an experience he describes as "rubbish, ridiculous and a massive disappointment."

"I thought it was rubbish, it was pointless going on," James said.

"I know it was a Welsh cap but to me it was nothing. I was told I was going to be a big part of the game.

"I didn't get to touch the ball. As soon as I went on we were defending. It was a massive disappointment - unbelievable!"

The 21-year-old Cardiff Blues flier can play on either the left or right wing, although most of his regional outings have been on the left.

James is wise enough to know that Shane Williams is first choice in the eleven shirt, but feels he is the right man to be playing on the right wing.

"There is no reason why I can't play on the right wing," he added.

"The only reason I play on the left is that I'm left-footed. It's ridiculous.

"I still think I'm better than Mark Jones, who didn't stand out like Shane did. Shane is the best winger, but I think I'm second best.

"I've been playing well and picked up two man-of-the-match awards for the Blues towards the end of the season and training in South Africa went really well.

"I assumed it would be Shane on one wing and me on the other. I thought I would have two starts. There was no reason why they couldn't play me in the first Test.

"I didn't expect to play in Australia last year, but this time I had high hopes and they came crashing down around me."

James revealed that his experiences in South Africa brought back memories of his debut - as a last minute replacement against England last August.

"I was thinking of the England match, but you have to go by what the coaches say," James said as he sat on the bench in Pretoria.

"The first Test was the worst I've seen us play, but I thought we were outstanding in the second match.

"Gethin Jenkins, Ian Gough and Gareth Cooper played really well."