Alun Wyn Jones Rugby World Cup 2019: Wales’ Adam Beard and Cory Hill out of Georgia match

Wales boss Warren Gatland admits he is worried about his lock options with Adam Beard and Cory Hill out of their World Cup opener against Georgia – but hopes both will be fit for Australia.

Beard has had his appendix removed, while Hill has not played since February because of an ankle injury and a stress fracture in his leg.

Wales face Georgia on 23 September and play Australia six days later.

“There is a concern at the moment with the second rows,” said Gatland.

“He [Beard] is probably not going to be available for selection for the Georgia game, but the medics are confident he’ll be available for the Australia game.

“[Hill] is the same. They’re confident that he’ll be available for selection against Australia.

“He’s been out of his boot and on the training field today [Sunday], even though he wasn’t doing any running. Hopefully, after that Georgia game, he’ll be back training and available for selection.”