Fired-up Wales can catch the rest

New Wales fitness coach Andrew Hore last night refused to write off the country's chances of springing a major shock at next year's World Cup.

The New Zealander, brought in on a six-figure salary, denied recent claims that Wales were a spent force on the international stage and insisted the gap between nations was growing ever narrower.

'Anything is possible in rugby,' he said. 'Wales had a rough time during the Six Nations but have improved during the last few months and recently ran South Africa close. There isn't a huge gap between sides any more. So if we start building now and get things right we will be in a

strong position come next year.' Wales players have come under fire in recent months for not reaching fitness targets, with several players being dropped by the new coach, New Zealander Steve Hansen.

Now it will be down to Hansen's compatriot to shake up the squad ahead of next year's showpiece in Australia.

'At the moment only about half the squad have been tested,' said Hore. 'It is too early to judge overall fitness levels yet but from what I have seen there is a huge amount of potential in the side.'