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Wales' Rhys Patchell patient over concussion ahead of World Cup

Rhys Patchell
Image: Rhys Patchell has suffered concussion three times in the last 12 months

Rhys Patchell is hoping to be fit for Wales' World Cup opener against Georgia, despite suffering concussion during Wales' 19-10 loss to Ireland earlier this month.

He was hurt following an attempted tackle on Ireland back-row forward CJ Stander.

It was the third time in the past 12 months he had suffered such an injury and it came less than a week after Wales head coach Warren Gatland had named his 31-man squad for Japan.

"These things take the time they take," Patchell said. "I've learnt that over the years.

"There is no point worrying about it. You've got to be philosophical about these things and be quite relaxed.

"The more worked up you get, the chances are the more your symptoms will persist."

Patchell has gone though the required return-to-play concussion protocols, working closely with Wales' medical team.

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"There are a lot of tests," he added. "You have to remember words and be able to do a series of balance and cognitive tests and they will ask you what the 10 words were at the end of the test.

"Right from the start you have to try and remember what they are. There is a cognitive sports test.

"There are also the symptoms. You can't return to do much until you are symptom-free.

"The medics ask how you are feeling and there is a gradual return to play in terms of the amount you can do in training. It is a thorough process.

"I am looking forward to being fit for selection for Georgia."

Wales head coach Gatland does not name his team for Monday's game in Toyota until the weekend, with Patchell potentially poised for a bench role and Dan Biggar starting at No 10.

And the squad are preparing for a first training session involving attack coach Stephen Jones, who was set to link up with Gatland and company in Toyota.

Jones headed to Japan after Wales assistant coach Rob Howley was sent home from the World Cup earlier this week for an alleged breach of betting regulations.

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Wales head coach Warren Gatland says his players remain resilient after the assistant coach Rob Howley was sent home for allegedly breaching World Rugby's betting and anti-corruption regulations

Howley, 48, has returned to Wales to assist with an investigation in relation to a potential breach of World Rugby regulation six, specifically betting on rugby union.

"The situation is not ideal, but he (Howley) put some excellent building blocks in place, and the real big parts of the game this weekend were put in place early doors," Patchell said.

"Whatever has happened has happened and everything is looking forward. There is no use looking back. Unfortunately, that has happened, and let's crack on with the rugby.

"Steve is an awesome coach and has a lot of enthusiasm for the game and has a real deep understanding of the game.

"I think the boys will enjoy what he has to bring. I am sure you will see a bit of Stephen's influence in terms of the odd thing for the Georgia game, possibly."

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