THE WELSH RUGBY camp will be without head coach Warren Gatland for a short period as he recovers from a domestic accident.
The New Zealander was back home visiting his family home on Waihi beach over the Easter weekend when he suffered a nasty fall.
While cleaning the windows, the 48-year-old slipped and fell three metres, which has resulted in fractures to his left and right heels.
Despite the injuries, Gatland is not expected to miss any of the 2012 Six Nations champions’ three-match tour in Australia and measures have been put in place to continue preparations, according to the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU).
We all wish Warren a speedy recovery from the injuries he has suffered in this extremely unfortunate accident,” WRU Group Chief Executive Roger Lewis said on their website.
“Knowing Warren as I do I can reassure the Welsh rugby public that he has diligently put the people and processes in place to ensure he stays closely linked to what is happening in the game back here in Wales.
“I have spoken to Warren on a number of occasions since his fall and have told him he will lead the tour to Australia unless anything unforeseen happens in the prognosis for recovery we are working to.”
Assistant coach Rob Howley will step in to cover for Gatland during his absence.