James Hook can freshen up Warren Gatland’s game-plan

James HookSonny Parker believes are going stale under head coach Warren Gatland.
And he has called on the Red boss to freshen up his game-plan following a disappointing by restoring James Hook to the starting line-up for this summer's tour of .
Perpignan playmaker Hook, 28, has been a regular in Welsh squads, making 16 appearances since the 2011 . But only two of those have been starts and former Wales centre Parker is concerned his lavish talents are being wasted.
“For me, Wales haven't changed their tactics since 2008,” Parker told The Rugby Paper. “They say they just need to be better at their game-plan, but and stopped their big ball carriers and they could gain no momentum.
“Personally, I think James Hook should be starting more games. He just adds an extra spark to their back-line. Whether he should play No.10 or 12, I don't know, but it's very one-dimensional at the moment and there are no changes of angles.
“They've got this mentality of going forward constantly… of building momentum because of the size of their back-line with guys like Jamie Roberts, Jonathan Davies, and Alex Cuthbert. But James attacks the line a lot better.
“Their game-plan is pretty much set in stone where the ball is moved nine to ten to ruck, or nine to a midfield runner and ruck. But Hooky moves the ball more and can kick on the run better, too, so it changes the game-plan and offers variety.
“I'm not sure that with Gats' mentality they'll give him a go. Rhys Priestland is probably still first pick at No.10 but I'd like to see Hooky given a chance on the South Africa tour because it'll be the last chance to experiment before the World Cup.”
Wales ended the Six Nations with a thumping win over , but they laboured in earlier matches and at times looked a tired team.
Parker believes the high-octane style and constant demands placed on the squad since 2011 have taken their toll and that certain key men need resting. But he still feels Gatland's side are capable of winning next year's World Cup.
“Mentally, a few guys probably need a break,” Parker, now playing for London Welsh, said. “The guys in , like Jamie Roberts and Mike Phillips, certainly don't get enough rest and it's harder for them to be managed.
“But Wales have to find a way of putting some of the top Welsh players in cotton wool and then they can take Wales further.
“I think Wales can win the World Cup. They're in a tough Pool and England are going to be right there, but we've got the players to get out of it if we can keep them healthy and maybe throw in a surprise or two structure-wise.
“Wales need to vary their approach a bit, but I still think they can do it.”
NEALE HARVEY

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