With former Wales skipper Colin Charvis definitely ruled out of the game, Ruddock will be pleased to have Williams’s experience available to him for selection this week.
“Two weeks ago I thought I was only going to be getting ready for the game against Italy in Rome on 12th February, but the injury has improved quicker than we thought,” said Williams. “I came through my first contact session of the month on Monday and had no ill effects. Now I hope to be ready for selection for the England game.
“Ideally I would like to have had a couple of games under my belt before going into a game like that, but I haven’t lost any fitness over the month. I’ve been able to train every day, it’s just that I haven’t been able to do any contact work. Losing Colin has been a huge blow to the side. If selected, I just hope I can fill that gap.”
Ruddock’s other option is to give Ospreys back row man Richie Pugh his first cap against a new look England back row trio. While there will be no Hill, Dallaglio or Back to contend with when Jason Robinson brings the World Champions to the Welsh Capital at the weekend, Williams warns against underrating the opposition.
“We would be foolish to underestimate England. They may have lost a number of players through retirement and injury, but they will still be full of confidence,” said Williams. “They have got three top class players in their back row. Lewis Moody and Joe Worsley have learned their trade as understudies to Hill, Back and Dallaglio and are ready to take their places, while Andy Hazell is a top class openside.”
Ruddock is due to name his side on Wednesday night.
