Wales worry over Thomas & Parker

Wales should find out on Sunday if injuries to Gareth Thomas and Sonny Parker have ended their World Cup.

The injuries could spell the end of the international careers of both, leaving Wales captain Thomas, 33, one cap short of 100 appearances for his team.

Both went off in the bruising first half of the 32-20 loss to Australia.

Scarlets centre Gavin Evans and Ospreys full-back Lee Byrne are expected to be called into the squad in their place, leaving Gavin Henson frustrated again.

In better news for coach Gareth Jenkins' team, Ian Evans is set to play a part in Thursday's match against Japan at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

The highly rated Ospreys lock has not played since dislocating a shoulder in December, and had his planned summer return disrupted by a collarbone injury.

Thomas, Wales' record try scorer with 39 scores, was taken off in the 22nd minute against Australia following a heavy tackle from Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock.

The challenge looked to be payback after Thomas had put in a late hit on Berrick Barnes as the rookie Australia fly-half sent Matt Giteau in for the opening try.

The Wales skipper, commonly known as 'Alfie', has had the most colourful of international careers.

More to follow...

Source: BBC Sport