Vital.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland has slammed those who have criticised their fixture against the Springboks, branding them as “bitter and twisted”, claiming the tie is “vital” for Wales’ preparations.

The game in Washington has come under fire as it takes place outside World Rugby’s designated Test window. It’s has been declared as nothing more than a ‘money-grabbing exercise’, with some say it ‘devalues international rugby.’

Gatland however, is having none of it and says the game is about creating depth and replicating conditions for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

“If anyone has come out and criticised this match, they’re completely ill-informed in terms of how important it is for the long term,” he said.

“I think you would have to be someone with a chip on your shoulder or be pretty bitter and twisted to criticise this match because I see it as absolutely vital in terms of our long-term planning for 2019.

“It’s about creating depth and replicating conditions that are going to be very much the same in Japan. Playing in a different situation, a different culture, travelling, and putting ourselves out of our comfort zone all make for a really important stepping stone for us.”

Wales play the Springboks at the RFK Stadium in Washington this weekend before embarking on a two-Test tour of Argentina.