Wales call up Phillips as Webb out of World Cup

Wales coach Warren Gatland has called up British and Irish Lions scrumhalf
Mike Phillips for Rhys Webb who has been ruled out of the upcoming Rugby World
Cup.

Scrum half Webb sustained a significant midfoot injury ruling him out of action
for the immediate future.

A medical report from the Welsh Rugby Union said that “Rhys will undergo
further examination and assessments on both his foot and knee before further
details can be announced. “

The loss of Webb comes a day after Wales lost fullback Leigh Halfpenny for
the World Cup and both were stretchered off in Saturday’s match against Italy.

Scrum half Phillips and Wing Eli Walker have both been called into Wales’ Rugby
World Cup Squad as injury replacements.

Walker made his International debut against Ireland last month while Phillips
will head to his third RWC and look to add to his tally of 94 Wales caps.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland said,”It is extremely disappointing for
both Leigh and Rhys. They have worked exceptionally hard to establish themselves
on the world stage and to prepare for the tournament and we wish them all the
best with their recovery.

“After announcing the squad we spoke about the need for players to remain
ready for action and is a great opportunity for Mike and Eli. It’s great that
we can call on players of this calibre. To bring Mike’s experience into the
squad is a bonus along with Eli’s exciting talent.”