"Life's too short" - Wales back row Alex Mann is savouring the moment after Autumn squad call-up

byTom Sansom

One of Alex Mann’s goals this season is simple — to try and smile a bit more. Right now, the Cardiff flanker certainly has reason to do so. Fresh from being named Player of the Match in a dominant Welsh derby win over the Dragons, the 23-year-old from Aberdare has now been rewarded with a call-up to the Wales squad for the autumn internationals.

It’s a moment to savour, but Mann admits that enjoying success doesn’t always come naturally. “I am not very good at enjoying stuff,” admits the 23-year-old.

“I think that’s what I’ve got to learn to do more, especially when we win, because that’s what we work for. I do find it hard to celebrate. I guess I will grow out of it. I will try and smile a bit more. Life’s too short.”

That relentless focus is what makes Mann one of Wales’ most promising back-row talents — though he admits it can be a double-edged sword.

“It’s a positive, but sometimes it can be a negative because that’s all I think about. Even in the house, my mother is like ‘What’s the matter with you?' I do take it very seriously. I am very competitive. It’s just in me. If I was playing for Aberdare, I would be the same.

“I just want to do the best I can, I want to play well, I want to do stuff for the team. I just feel I am there to do a job, and I’ve got to make sure I do that job first. The next game is always the most important thing for me, rather than enjoying the moment. I have got to rein it in a bit, I think, and try not to take it as seriously as I do. Sometimes, I have got to take a breath and learn to enjoy stuff more.”

Back in the Wales Fold

After bursting onto the Test scene during the 2024 Six Nations, where he featured in all five matches and scored tries against Scotland and England, Mann’s rise was abruptly halted by a back injury that kept him out for six months.

Now, having fought his way back to full fitness, he’s back in the national setup and cherishing every moment.

“I felt like I was a kid when I was first involved,” he admits. “One minute I was playing semi-pro, next minute I was playing for Wales. I was almost thrown into the deep end. But, looking back, I think that was the best thing for me. I think it has only helped me, and I am grateful for that.

“It means loads to me to be back now. Putting that Welsh jersey on is everything you hope for.”

Mann started both Tests on Wales’ summer tour to Japan, including the victory in Kobe which ended the national side’s 18-match losing streak.

“I was over the moon to get the opportunity,” he said. “I remember seeing my jersey laid out for the first Test. I took a moment then because it means a lot to me. It made it that bit sweeter going on to the pitch after my injuries. I just tried to put my best foot forward, give a good account of myself and give everything I have got and I felt like I did that, so I was pleased.”

Lessons from Japan

The experience of touring Japan left a lasting impression on Mann — not just for the rugby, but for the cultural respect and discipline he witnessed.

“At the traffic lights, they were all single file waiting to cross, disciplined behind each other. If that was in Aberdare, everyone would be barging and pushing each other! I found that quite cool, how respectful they were. The people were really nice, really helpful.”

That maturity off the field mirrors his growth as a player since his debut just over a year ago.

“I am more mature, understanding different parts of my game, my strengths and weaknesses. I have learned a lot in terms of a bit of resilience, from getting injuries. So I feel like 100 per cent I am a better player now.

“What I’ve learned in professional rugby is the stuff off the field is sometimes more important than stuff on the field. So I try to get in a structure, in a routine and do any little thing I can to make sure on a Saturday I have the best chance. I try to be in the best place possible.”

Cardiff Pride and the Arms Park Atmosphere

This weekend, Mann turns his attention back to club duty as Cardiff prepare to face Edinburgh Rugby at the Arms Park — and he knows exactly how important home support will be.

“Being a youngster coming through, I don’t think I quite appreciated enough how much the fans meant. I was solely just thinking of the rugby. But when we are at the Arms Park and it’s packed and there’s passionate supporters who care about the club, it makes such a big difference. Everyone says it, all the boys and coaches.

“It’s those nights you remember, being in the centre of the capital of Wales on a Friday night, Saturday night and everyone is behind you, supporting you, all your family and friends. It’s quite special really. Those days will stick with everyone forever, you wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

“People are wanting to come and watch because of the brand of rugby we play and we fight for each other. It just shows how much people care about Cardiff and the players care just as much. To play for Cardiff is a massive honour. I am proud to play for Cardiff and hopefully we will get lots more big occasions at the Arms Park in the future.”

Mann might still be learning how to celebrate his success, but his pride, determination and passion for both Cardiff and Wales make him one of the brightest prospects in Welsh rugby.

Quotes provided by URC Media