Scarlets star backed for Wales call

Scarlets coach Brad Mooar says New Zealand-born Johnny McNicholl deserves a chance with Wales. The wing or full-back is set to qualify for selection after completing his three-year residency since arriving at Scarlets in Wales in 2016. Under current World Rugby rules a player can represent a country after they have resided there for 36 months, but that will increase to 60 months on December 21 next year. “We’d all love to see him playing for Wales and would celebrate that hugely,” Mooar told the BBC. He added: “He’s playing some really good footy, he’s dangerous, he’s backing himself and playing off instinct while also growing his game.” Warren Gatland oversaw his final match as Wales coach in the third-place play-off defeat to New Zealand at the World Cup. Gatland will be replaced by Wayne Pivac, who signed 29-year-old McNicholl during his time as Scarlets coach.