North: My recovery took a long time but I’ve only got one head
WALES wing George North has declared himself fit to play in this year’s World Cup following a series of head injuries that threatened to derail the 23-year-old’s career.
North has been included in head coach Warren Gatland’s 47-man training squad for the tournament in England and Wales, which starts in September, despite being sidelined since March.
“I’m feeling fit and well now, and looking forward to what’s ahead,” said the Northampton star, who suffered repeated concussions on club and country duty this year.
“It’s a lot better. It took a bit longer than I was hoping initially but at the end of the day you’ve only got one head and to rush it would be silly, you’ve got to look after it.”
Gatland has also named uncapped dual-qualified forwards Ross Moriarty and Tomas Francis in his extended squad.
Gloucester back-row Moriarty and Exeter prop Francis are also eligible for England and are joined by seven other international newcomers, including Bath lock Dominic Day and Newport Gwent Dragons backs Tyler Morgan and Jack Dixon.