Lock Luke Charteris has been called up into the Wales squad for the tour of South Africa to replace the injured Bradley Davies.
Wales lock returning early from holiday to take chance in South Africa.
Dragons lock Luke Charteris has been called up into the Wales squad for the tour of South Africa to replace the injured Bradley Davies.
Cardiff Blues man Davies injured his ankle during training and Welsh medical officials have now decided to send the 21-year-old home from the tour of South Africa.
Davies had not been included in the final 22 for Saturday first Test against the world champions in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
Charteris was on holiday in San Francisco when he received the call and he will be winging his way to South Africa straight away, and is expected to land in Cape Town on Friday.
Wales assistant coach Robin McBryde expressed his disappointment for Davies and believes that Charteris will be able to slot straight into the squad.
Disappointment
"We feel very sorry for Bradley but there is never a right time to get injured," said McBryde.
"He has already proved to us that he is one for the future and I know he has benefited enormously from his time here with the squad.
"Bradley has had a chance to test himself in the environment we are creating and he is aware of the intensity and focus we are looking for.
"Luke has been involved with Wales in the past so we are confident he will slot in very quickly with the squad.
"This is a great chance for him to impress us and we are looking forward to seeing him arrive in South Africa."
Charteris has won seven caps for Wales and his last outing also came against the Springboks back in November, and he will hope to get another chance in the second Test in Pretoria.
Experience
Wales team manager Alan Phillips still thinks youngster Davies will benefit from his brief spell on tour, and said Charteris was eager to take his chance.
"We tracked Luke down to San Francisco and he is absolutely delighted to be joining us," said Phillips.
"He will fly from the USA back into London so fortunately he will have a chance to collect his boots before heading out here.
"It is never nice to see anyone leave the squad through injury but Bradley and Luke will both benefit from the experience of being involved."
