Hibbard fires back in Wales selection row

Richard Hibbard won 38 caps for Wales at rugby union

Chief executive Richard Hibbard has defended Wales Rugby League's decision to turn to youth under new head coach Paul Berry, declaring "no player is guaranteed a place based on past achievements".

Berry was appointed as successor to John Kear this summer and will start a new era with a double-header against Ireland at the end of October and start of November.

Wales are starting the cycle towards the 2030 World Cup and will do so without stalwarts Rhys Williams, Elliot Kear, Gil Dudson and Rhodri Lloyd.

Wing or centre Williams, Wales' record appearance holder and try scorer, has expressed his disappointment at being told he would not feature against Ireland by voicemail when he had hoped for an international farewell.

Hibbard thanked the retiring players for their "outstanding" contributions to Welsh rugby league but stressed there can be no room for sentiment.

"In professional sport, no player is guaranteed a place based on past achievements alone. Positions must be earned through current performance," said the former Ospreys, Gloucester and Dragons rugby union hooker.

"I recall being present when Brian O'Driscoll was dropped for the third rugby union Lions Test in Australia in 2013.

"His professional and respectful response remains one of the most inspiring moments of my career.

"It serves as a powerful reminder. While every player hopes to shape their own story, true success demands humility and dedication."

'I would have walked over hot coals for Wales'

Richard Hibbard won the 2013 Six Nations with Wales

Hibbard stated that members of the men's side were invited to meet with Wales Rugby League (WRL) director of performance Clive Griffiths, Berry and chairman James Davies to discuss the road to the next World Cup when the subject of payment for playing was raised.

"Unfortunately, a number of senior players attended these meetings in a way that did not reflect the professionalism or passion we expect from those representing Wales," said Hibbard.

"Wales Rugby League has always been open about our financial challenges. In this context, it was disappointing that some players' first concerns focused on compensation, with some senior members even stating they would not play without being paid.

"As a former player, I can say without hesitation that I would have walked over hot coals to represent my country – paid or unpaid.

"Last year, WRL funded the senior squad's qualifiers and friendlies at considerable financial risk. If we had the resources, we would absolutely invest more in our players, but that is not our current financial reality.

"These conversations raise important questions about what motivates those chosen to wear the jersey."

Williams told BBC Sport Wales earlier this week that playing for Wales was not about financial gains but that they wanted to make it clear that part-time players should not be left out of pocket.

"We've always understood Wales Rugby League hasn't been a cash-rich organisation and we don't demand massive amounts of money to play for our country," Williams said.

"As senior players we didn't want to leave and have players coming through that think it's acceptable to play for free.

"Essentially it costs you. I would have had to miss school as a PE teacher and lose money to play for my country, which is crazy."

Wales have 12 international fixtures before starting their qualification campaign for the World Cup under Berry, who led Wales Under-16s to three successive Four Nations titles.

"His deep knowledge of the player pathways and his proven track record are invaluable as we rebuild with a view to the next two World Cup cycles," said Hibbard.