There’s a real sense of excitement building around Wales’ upcoming campaign, and the opening fixture against Japan is going to be a fascinating test.
Looking at the first team selection, Wales have clearly decided to go strong. And rightly so. There’s no room for easing your way into international rugby anymore.
Every game matters, every opposition brings something different, and Japan, under Eddie Jones, will certainly arrive with a few tricks up their sleeve.
One thing that really stands out for me is the development of Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan.
Their performances week in, week out for Gloucester, against quality opposition and in front of big crowds, are taking their game to another level.
That’s exactly why players take opportunities like this: to challenge themselves, experience different environments and ultimately become better players. Both look to be growing in confidence, leadership and overall influence.
Max Llewellyn is another player who deserves his opportunity. His qualities and performances make a strong case for his place, while the return of Josh Adams to the wing and Blair Murray at full-back gives Wales some exciting options.
Add Tomos Williams into that mix and suddenly you have the ingredients of a backline that can really hurt teams.
What Wales need is X-factor. Players who are prepared to back themselves, play what they see, take risks and create something when a game becomes tight. Rugby at international level is increasingly difficult to break down.
The margins are small, defences are organised and opportunities don’t come around often. You need game-breakers, players with the confidence and ability to do something different.
That’s what excites me about this group. There’s talent, athleticism, attacking instinct and, importantly, a mindset that isn’t afraid to have a go.
Of course, Japan will be no easy assignment. They’re an intelligent, well-coached side with a distinctive style, and Eddie Jones knows international rugby inside out.
He’ll have studied Wales, identified weaknesses and undoubtedly have a few surprises prepared.
But this is also an opportunity for Wales to start building something.
The World Cup isn’t that far away, and the importance of combinations cannot be underestimated. Players need time together.
They need to understand each other’s movements, strengths, decision-making and instincts. You don’t build those relationships overnight.
Pick the right combinations, give them opportunities to play together, trust them and allow them to develop that understanding. Continuity breeds confidence, and confidence allows players to express themselves.
These boys love pulling on the Welsh jersey. Now it’s about turning that passion into performances, building momentum and creating a team that believes in what it can achieve.
The talent is there. The X-factor is there. Now it’s about bringing it all together.
