Welsh scrum half Dwayne Peel has handed national team coach Warren Gatland a boost by confirming that he will be back in action sooner than expected.

The Sale Sharks player injured his groin in the weekend's game against Cardiff Blues and went to see a specialist amid fears that he would be a long-term absentee.

Instead, he said: "The specialist scanned the injury and it's a groin strain. Hopefully I should be back in full training in a couple of weeks."

Coach Gatland stated that Peel may return to the Welsh Six Nations team once he is fully fit again.

In the meantime, Gareth Cooper, Richie Rees and Martin Roberts have been named in the squad and will compete for the scrum half berth for the opening match against England on February 6th.

Those struggling with a groin problem may find that ultrasound treatment helps aid recovery.

Another player whose Six Nations participation is in doubt is Frenchman Maxime Mermot, who recently injured his shoulder.