Phillips out to make history in South Africa

Wales are taking a large crop of British & Irish Lions in search of their first Test win in South Africa and Mike Phillips sees no reason why they can't make history. [more]

Phillips out to make history in South Africa

Wales are taking a large crop of British & Irish Lions in search of their first Test win in South Africa and Mike Phillips sees no reason why they can’t make history.

The Springboks host Warren Gatland’s side for a two-match series this month and the former Lions coach has an arsenal from last year’s victorious tour to Australia.

Phillips is one of ten Lions in the touring party and despite injury to skipper Sam Warburton, Richard Hibbard, Leigh Halfpenny, and Justin Tipuric, the scrum-half is in confident mood.

"I love playing South Africa. It's a great opportunity for us to go down there and test ourselves against the best,” he said.

"We've got to be confident in our little group, prepare really well and who knows what can happen?

"That's what we all want and that's what we're going to try and do. We want to be part of a historic Welsh team to go down there and get the first win."

Throughout the tour Scarlets scrum-halves Rhodri Williams and Gareth Davies will provide Phillips with competition for the No.9 shirt.

And the 31-year-old is expecting the duo to apply heavy pressure with the World Cup just a year away.

"They've done really well this season. I think there's great talent in the nine slot here in Wales and it's only good for the future of the team," he added.

"With the World Cup coming up next year and with the competition for places, it's great to drive each other on and get the best out of ourselves."

Previous story Cuthbert relishing Habana challenge
Next story Sexton "mad keen" to play in Argentina